LEXINGTON, Ky. (AP) - Kentucky coach Rich Brooks piped crowd
noise over the speaker during practice on Wednesday in an effort to
prepare his players for what they'll hear on Sunday when the
Wildcats play at Louisville.
Brooks said the move was necessary so his players can get their
assignments down and be in the right place when they take the field
against their rivals.
Though the Wildcats' offense has lagged behind the more
experienced defense for most of the preseason, Brooks said there
have been offensive mistakes as the preseason closed.
In a rivalry that has historically relied on the running game
for victory, Brooks highlighted the advantage the Wildcats will
have in the tailback position.
Brooks named Tony Dixon the starter, though he expects Derrick
Locke, Alfonso Smith and Moncell Allen to also see time. Smith has
earned praise from Brooks for his ability to catch the ball out of
the backfield and could be a vital part of the game plan on Sunday.
Brooks said that freshman Randall Cobb will be the backup
quarterback and that receiver DeMoreo Ford will be in action
against Louisville. Ford missed practice last week due to a family
emergency.

(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)