Ranking Kentucky's Greatest Gridiron Warriors
Kentucky football is off to a historic start this season, but the Wildcats still have work to do to rank among the best teams in program history. — www.courier-journal.com
Choosing the "best" in Kentucky Wildcats football history is a dance through decades of triumphs and near misses, where legends like Babe Parilli and Tim Tebow share the stage with underdog heroes and resilient defenses. Yet, certain seasons stand out, etched in crimson and blue, marking high points of Wildcat prowess.
The 1950 team roars like a champion. Coached by Bear Bryant, this squad boasted an 11-1 record, a Sugar Bowl victory over Oklahoma, and the program's first-ever national ranking. This team, anchored by quarterback Babe Parilli, laid the foundation for future success and ignited Wildcat pride across the state.
Fast forward to 1976, a season shrouded in a bit of asterisk-shaped controversy. Though Mississippi State's vacated wins retroactively awarded Kentucky an SEC title, this team's merits stand on their own. A stifling defense, nicknamed "The Blue Angels," propelled the Wildcats to a 9-3 record and cemented their place among Kentucky's finest.
Now, enter the 1977 Wildcats. The "Air Raid" offense revolutionized the program, led by the electrifying duo of coach Fran Curci and quarterback Danny Clark. They amassed a then-school-record 10-1 record, only a heartbreaking Citrus Bowl loss separating them from national glory. This season defined an era of offensive innovation and showcased Kentucky's potential on the gridiron.
While championships may elude the modern Wildcats, the 2007 team deserves a standing ovation. Under Rich Brooks, they finished 8-4, capped by a thrilling Music City Bowl victory over Florida. This squad, featuring future NFL talents Randall Cobb and Andre Woodson, reignited fan fervor and proved Kentucky could compete with the SEC's elite.
The Wildcat story isn't just about titles. It's about resilience, like the 1984 team, Coach Hal Mumme's first, who upset rival Tennessee under the lights in Knoxville. It's about defying expectations, like the 2022 squad's thrilling bowl victory over Iowa, their first postseason win in decades.
Kentucky football may not boast a trophy shelf overflowing with hardware, but it has a treasure trove of memories crafted by these and other exceptional teams.
