John Clay’s Sidelines

From Commonwealth Stadium:

Kentucky up 17-14 at the half, though the Cats have not really taken total advantage of South Carolina’s four turnovers. The Gamecocks have thrown two interceptions and fumbled twice. The star of the first half has been Captain Munnerlyn, USC’s junior cornerback. His 84-yard kickoff return set up the visitors’ first score. Then he picked up blocked field goal and returned it for an 81-yard touchdown. Those are Spurrier’s two scores.

Kentucky has been able to run the ball a little better, at least late in the first half. Locke called for the ball, and he’s got it. He’s carried 11 times for 40 yards. Hartline has completed 16 of 23 passes for 105 yards. Kentucky’s defense has been very opportunistic. And it has held Carolina to just 31 yards on 14 rushing plays. It hasn’t sacked Smelley, but has gotten some pressure on the Carolina quarterback. A little pressure. Needs more.

First half stats:

• UK outgained Carolina 163-133.

• Kentucky has 54 yards rushing on 15 carries. Carolina has 31 on 14.

• Hartline is 16 of 23 for 105 yards and one interception.

• Smelley is seven of 19 for 102 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions.

• McKinley has caught five passes for 78 yards.

• UK’s leading receiver is Derrick Locke, with six catches for 47 yards. Randall Cobb has caught six balls for 32 yards.