Tennessee (20-4) at Kentucky (16-7)
- When: Feb 11 2025, 7:00 PM
- Where: Rupp Arena, Lexington, KY, USA
- Where to watch: ESPN
Game Preview
Tennessee (-3.0) | Total: 149.0
A high-stakes SEC showdown is set for Tuesday night as No. 5 Tennessee travels to Lexington to take on No. 15 Kentucky. The Volunteers are out for revenge after falling to the Wildcats last month, while Kentucky aims to string together back-to-back wins for the first time in nearly a month. With Tennessee favored on the road, this matchup presents intriguing betting angles.
Kentucky Wildcats
The Wildcats (16-7, 5-5 SEC) have struggled with consistency, failing to put together consecutive wins since mid-January. However, they are coming off an 80-57 blowout victory over South Carolina, a much-needed boost after dropping four of their previous five games.
Otega Oweh led Kentucky with 17 points, but the biggest storyline was the return of Lamont Butler (shoulder injury) and Jaxson Robinson (wrist injury) to the lineup. Butler, who missed three straight games, made an immediate impact on both ends of the floor. However, head coach Mark Pope indicated that Robinson is unlikely to play against Tennessee.
Oweh has been Kentucky’s most consistent scorer, averaging 16.0 points per game, with at least 10 points in every contest this season. The Wildcats have six players averaging double figures, making them one of the most balanced offenses in the country.
Kentucky’s biggest issue this season has been its defense. While they boast the SEC’s second-best offense at 86.7 points per game, they rank 13th in the conference in scoring defense (76.6 PPG allowed). In recent losses to Arkansas and Ole Miss, Kentucky allowed their opponents to shoot over 55 percent from the field. They tightened things up against South Carolina, holding the Gamecocks to 32.8 percent shooting, but the Wildcats will need another strong defensive showing against Tennessee’s efficient attack.
Tennessee Volunteers
Tennessee (20-4, 7-4 SEC) has responded impressively since their 78-73 home loss to Kentucky on Jan. 28, rattling off three straight victories, including a dominant 70-52 win over Oklahoma on Saturday. The Volunteers shot 69.2 percent in the first half and built a 28-point lead before cruising to the finish.
Chaz Lanier led the way with 21 points, continuing his strong season in which he averages 17.7 points per game. Zakai Zeigler remains the engine of the offense, leading the SEC with 7.5 assists per game and contributing 2.1 steals per contest.
Defense has been the calling card for Tennessee this season, allowing an SEC-best 59.3 points per game. They have held opponents under 60 points in five of their last seven games, including a season-low 52 points allowed against Oklahoma. Their defensive dominance was also on display when they avenged their loss to Florida, following up a 73-43 road loss with a 64-44 home win on Feb. 1.
Tennessee’s ability to protect the rim and disrupt passing lanes has been a major factor in their success, and head coach Rick Barnes emphasized the importance of defensive intensity after their latest win: “We’ve always felt that’s what our program was built on. I thought we had great rim protection today.”
Betting Prediction & Props
Spread Lean: Tennessee -3 – The Volunteers are rolling, while Kentucky’s defensive inconsistencies make it tough to trust them against an elite defense.
Total Play: Under 149.0 – Tennessee’s defense is elite, and Kentucky has struggled against disciplined teams.
Prop Bets to Watch:
Chaz Lanier Over 18.5 Points – He’s been Tennessee’s go-to scorer and should have another big night.
Zakai Zeigler Over 6.5 Assists – His playmaking will be crucial in breaking down Kentucky’s defense.
Otega Oweh Over 15.5 Points – Kentucky’s top scorer should continue his consistent offensive production.
Tennessee’s defensive pressure and methodical offense give them the edge, especially against a Kentucky team that has struggled to stop high-powered teams. Expect the Vols to control the tempo, limit Kentucky’s transition opportunities, and come away with a key road victory in SEC play.
- NCAAB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
