Speaking of confidence, Kentucky just showed its commitment to second-year coach Mark Stoops. The Wildcats (5-3, 2-3 SEC) have more wins this year than the past two seasons combined and were competitive in a two-touchdown loss to top-ranked Mississippi State week.
Stoops is signed through 2019 for a total of $21.75 million.
Mauk threw for just 141 yards last week in a victory over Vanderbilt and completed just 11 of 23 passes, but threw for two touchdowns with no interceptions. Another positive sign was a season-best 58 yards rushing.