Mark Story: Three key questions about Kentucky vs. Louisiana-Monroe
THREE KEY QUESTIONS
1. How will Kentucky handle prosperity?
UK's thrilling comeback from 14 down in the fourth quarter to beat South Carolina created a state of Big Blue euphoria. Whether Kentucky can get its feet back on the ground and be ready to play for a high noon kickoff against a Sun Belt Conference foe could go a long way in determining how stiff a test ULM proves to be. The Warhawks have outscored their foes 31-17 in the first quarter — but have been outscored 103-61 combined in the other three quarters.
2. How will ULM handle adversity?
With their season-opening victory over Wake Forest of the ACC, the Warhawks have beaten a Power Five conference foe in three straight seasons (they beat Wake in 2013, too, and Arkansas in 2012). However, injuries have taken a toll on ULM this season. Expected to be out Saturday are leading rusher Centarius Donald, veteran left tackle Joseph Treadwell and three defensive starters (from the start of the season). That's a lot to overcome on the road against an SEC foe.
3. Can the UK fans fill Commonwealth Stadium on their own?
With a boost from South Carolina backers, UK announced a sellout crowd of 62,135 last week (capacity this season is listed at 62,093) for the first time in four home dates. This Saturday, ULM will not bring a South Carolina-level of fans, so UK will try to compensate with its annual "Heroes Day." All active, reserve and veteran members of the armed forces plus police, firefighters and first-responders get in free (while tickets last). Can the troops — coupled with the excitement of beating Steve Spurrier — help fill Commonwealth again?
THE MOOD
Is positive. In the past, UK teams coming off substantial victories have not always avoided letdowns. If the Wildcats take care of business vs. ULM, it's another sign of a new day in Kentucky football.
This story was originally published October 10, 2014 at 2:46 PM with the headline "Mark Story: Three key questions about Kentucky vs. Louisiana-Monroe."