Florida dents Kentucky's playoff hopes with 21-14 win over Cats

Florida quarterback Aaron Philo had 221 all-purpose yards and a touchdown to rally the Gators past No. 13 Kentucky 21-14 Saturday.

Kentucky (7-3, 5-3) dropped its second straight game as the offense struggled to move the ball after an opening 86-yard touchdown drive. The Wildcats crossed midfield three times but the Gator defense, coached by former Kentucky defensive coordinator Brad White, turned them back.

Philo, back in the starting lineup after being benched against Georgia on Oct. 31, threw for 119 yards and ran for 102, including the go-ahead score on a 2-yard run with 9:08 left in the game. Jaden Baugh also scored his SEC-leading 15th touchdown for Florida (6-4, 4-4), now bowl eligible.

Kentucky quarterback Kenny Minchey threw for 181 yards and a touchdown, but the Wildcat rushing game was non-existent with just 61 yards.

Florida punted five times in the first half, but Kentucky failed to take advantage and only led 7-2 at the half.

The loss puts a dent in the Wildcats’ hopes of a College Football Playoff berth after being ranked 11th last week. They also lost ground in the SEC standings, falling to fifth place after starting the day tied for second.

Kentucky travels to Missouri next Saturday.