LEXINGTON, Ky. (WYMT) - Opening day is huge for every college football team, but maybe more so for the Kentucky Wildcats.

The Cats finished the season on a high note after defeating Tennessee, but they failed to make a bowl game. So in terms of momentum, it is huge for the Cats to walk away with a win.

"I hear about how important it is for us", said head coach Joker Phillips. They're saying the same thing up the road also. It's an important game. Everybody's first game is important. You think it's not important down at Alabama, Georgia, wherever? It's important to set the tempo and tone for the season. Again, the team that wins this thing comes out of this thing with momentum. We need the momentum, and so do they need the momentum. That's why it will be a great game. Regardless of who is favored, who is in the top 25, it will be a great football game."

As far as the Cardinals are concerned, they snapped a four game winning streak against the Cats last season. Heading in to the game Sunday, they are currently ranked 25th in the Associated Press poll and picked to win the game. But, its something the Cardinals are cautious about.

The Kentucky Wildcats will kick off their season this Sunday afternoon as they hit the road to Louisville to take on the Cardinals. The Wildcats currently lead the all time series with a 14-10 overall record. Coverage of the game can be found on ESPN at 3:30pm.

The Cats are currently 14 point underdogs in the game.