LEXINGTON, Ky. (LEX 18) — Today is the day: The showdown between the Cats and the Dawgs.
And with history on the line, UK is vying for a chance to play in the SEC Championship game, but first they need to beat Georgia’s Bulldogs.
Campus has been buzzing all week, as True Blue fans get ready to bring the noise to Kroger Field.
“It’s been amazing watching the Cats go 7-1 … and can’t wait to watch them go 8-1,” said UK freshman Emma Smith.
People began setting up tailgate tents Friday, ahead of what is being billed as one of the football program’s biggest games ever.
With some questions remaining about UK’s offense, some are hedging their bets, but most fans seem confident in their team.
“I made a bet that if we beat the Dawgs tomorrow, I’m shaving every hair off my body … every hair … minus the eyebrows … but every hair,” said UK sophomore Anish Patel.
He may be alone on that one, but the sentiment matches the enthusiasm that’s been spreading across campus all week.
In light of the interest and crowds expected Saturday, UK officials are working to make sure everyone remains safe.
Ride-share company Lyft, Better Drinking Culture and The Mocktail Project raised $20,000 to help provide game day fans with safe transportation options.
Starting at noon and running through 2 a.m., Lyft will offer $20 discounts on rides, available to both UK and Georgia fans.
The University of Kentucky is partnering with the Kentucky Distillers Association, Keeneland and others to make this happen.
This comes after 4-year-old Marco Shemwell was hit and killed, allegedly by an intoxicated former UK student during a football game.
“Our goal is to stop drunk driving recidivism,” said David Kelly, executive director of the Coalition of Ignition Interlock Manufacturers. “Last year, there were 24,357 drunk driving arrests across Kentucky, and we believe we can be part of the solution to stop repeat offenses. But preventing the first offense is the best solution so we’re glad to participate in this effort to keep SEC fans safe.”
To use the safe Lyft option, enter promo code CATURDAY.
