What a Difference one Year makes

Last season, we all watched to see our beloved, yet young, Kentucky Wildcats go into Chapel Hill to take on a loaded North Carolina team in the Dean Dome. We all wondered just how good the youngsters were and how they would handle their first hostile environment.

Last year, it was not off to a pretty start as North Carolina scored the first eight points and had a lead of 24-6 before the young Cats could regain their poise. Yet there was still a 15-point deficit at halftime. Kentucky made their runs in the second half, but the more experienced Tar Heels were just too much as UNC won 91-78.

Now in 2005, it seems the tables have turned. This year it will be the Heels who carry the young, inexperienced, and somewhat untested label. The defending champions will enter into a rowdy Rupp Arena that will likely be a capacity crowd. After a disappointing performance on Tuesday night, Tubby Smith should have his kids ready for an exciting game. Recruiting battles against Roy Williams over the summer should add some extra spice to this matchup as well.

With Rajon Rondo leading the way, one could bet that this team will not drag it’s feet on Saturday. The tables are turned and the roles are reversed, this will not be just any other game to this Kentucky team. It would be no surprise to see the Cats get off to a great start and try to put the Heels away early. No matter what either team’s national rankings are, it will always be special when these two go at it. Here’s hoping for a Big Blue win for the Home team!