NASHVILLE, Tenn. (Interstat) — A surging Vanderbilt team will look to continue its best season in years when it hosts a resurgent Kentucky squad at FirstBank Stadium on Saturday.

The Commodores (8-2) enter the contest with momentum, coming off a dramatic 45-38 overtime victory over Auburn on Nov. 8. Quarterback Diego Pavia was the catalyst in that win, accounting for 489 total yards and four touchdowns.

Vanderbilt’s high-powered offense, however, will face a Kentucky defense that has found its footing. The Wildcats (5-5) have won three of their last four games, including a 42-10 rout of Tennessee Tech last Saturday and a 38-7 blowout of Florida on Nov. 8. Quarterback Cutter Boley led the way against Tennessee Tech, throwing for 236 yards and three touchdowns while adding another score on the ground.

Despite Vanderbilt’s superior record, Kentucky has been installed as a pregame favorite with a spread of +8.5. The over/under is set at 53.5. Interstat’s game simulator projects a close contest, predicting a 26-23 victory for Vanderbilt.

The game is a crucial late-season matchup for both programs. A win would solidify Vanderbilt’s remarkable turnaround, while Kentucky aims to secure bowl eligibility and build on its recent improved form.