With all the talk about how bad the UK running game has been — hey, the Alabama defense is good – thought it might be interesting to look how the Cats’ ground attack has fared through the first five games of Rich Brooks’ five previous seasons.
Nothing compares to last year. The Cats were a ground machine last season at this time, averaging a whopping 5.8 yards per carry. Rafael Little was running all cylinders. The line was clearing holes. The big-play capabilities of the UK passing game surely complimented the running game perfectly.
But when you compare this year’s numbers to Brooks’ first four, it’s surprising to find that the 2008 edition has rushed for more yards than any of those years. I know what you’re thinking. Norfolk State and Western Kentucky as opponents skewer this year’s numbers. There’s something to be said for that. The 2006 team had played two SEC games, plus Louisville, by this time. The 2005 team had played two conference games, plus Louisville and Indiana.
But for what it’s worth, here are the numbers:
| Year | Att | Yards | Avg |
| 2008 | 170 | 714 | 4.2 |
| 2007 | 194 | 1,118 | 5.8 |
| 2006 | 145 | 436 | 3.0 |
| 2005 | 172 | 613 | 3.6 |
| 2004 | 158 | 661 | 4.2 |
| 2003 | 173 | 579 | 3.3 |
