Kentucky has stayed Under the total in their last four games and kept 10 of its 14 home games Under as well. Both these teams shoot at a high percentage, but I'm looking for defense to be the theme of this elite SEC battle. Even historically, this has been an Under series going 15-5-2 in the last 22 meetings. Under is the top play.

How often does the No. 1 team in the country on the receiving end of four points fall into your lap? Tennessee has not exactly had narrow escapes in its 19-game straight-up win streak. Average margin: 18.1 points. Not to be overlooked is the Volunteers’ third-ranked defense in the SEC. They are far more experienced than Kentucky and will not wilt in the league’s game of the year. The Wildcats have split 14 home games ATS, while the Vols have dodged ATS defeat once in six away dates.

A monster game for both top-five teams. Kentucky has gone under in nine of their last 10 games including the past seven in a row. In Southeastern Conference play Tennessee is the #2 defense and Kentucky is #1. Tennessee has revenge losing in the conference championship game last year and Kentucky has the #1 team in the country in its building. This is a heavyweight fight and for that reason I love the first half under as well.