Vanderbilt football has two goals across the final two games of the regular season, beginning with Kentucky on Nov. 22 at FirstBank Stadium.
Two victories and style points.
Vanderbilt (8-2, 4-2 SEC) stayed at No. 14 in the CFP rankings after an open date last week, though it was jumped by Miami despite no discernible change in the two teams' resumes.
The Wildcats (5-5, 2-5) are aiming to earn bowl eligibility after missing out on the postseason last year.
Here's how the Tennessean's experts pick Vandy-Kentucky:
Vanderbilt-Kentucky picks as Commodores aim for CFP statement
Aria Gerson, Vanderbilt beat reporter: Vanderbilt 35, Kentucky 17
Kentucky has struggled overall this season, though it has played close games against a handful of SEC contenders. The Wildcats had a one-score loss to Ole Miss and took Texas to overtime. They also got blown out by Georgia and South Carolina. Defense is where Kentucky has hung its hat this season and Vanderbilt has at times struggled against good defensive teams.
Gentry Estes, Tennessean columnist: Vanderbilt 24, Kentucky 23
This has the makings of a scary game right here for Vanderbilt. The Commodores are at risk of looking ahead to a huge game at Tennessee. Meanwhile, Kentucky has quietly gotten its act together lately. Give Vandy the edge at home after a bye week, but I’m expecting this to be another close call at home.
Tom Kreager, sports director: Vanderbilt 28, Kentucky 21
All the Dores have to do is win. Win this week and next and finish with 10 wins for the first time ever. They will do that this week against the Wildcats. But it will be close with the Vols on everyone's minds.
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