It had been a long time for Vanderbilt, a really, really long time.
The Commodores had not won a Southeastern Conference football game since October 19, 2019 … 26 consecutive games without a victory. On Saturday in Lexington, it looked like the game against Kentucky would be another one that would slip through their fingers.
After three quarters, Kentucky trailed, 14-9, but the home team had taken the lead, 21-17, when running back Chris Rodriquez ran 72 yards for a touchdown with just over five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter.
Vanderbilt had one final chance with the ball. A 40-yard completion set up the ‘Dores on the Kentucky 8-yard line with only 32 seconds left on the clock. That’s when junior wide receiver Will Sheppard hauled in a touchdown pass slanting across the end zone insuring the 24-17 upset win.
That game-winning reception has been chosen as the U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish “Catch of the Week.”
Sheppard led Vandy receivers with five catches for 88 yards, including the winning reception. Wright completed 12 of 23 passes for 184 yards and the scoring pass to Sheppard. The quarterback also carried for 126 yards, including a 59-yard touchdown run.
Remember … for the tailgate tent or the pre-game party, U. S. Farm-Raised Catfish is always “the winning catch.”
The Catfish Institute, or TCI, was formed in 1986 by catfish farmers and feed manufacturers to raise consumer awareness of the positive qualities of U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish. Since its formation, U.S. per capita consumption has more than doubled.
U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish is a sustainable and environmentally friendly seafood product. The National Audubon Society, Monterey Bay Aquarium, and Environmental Defense all recommend U.S. Farm-Raised Catfish as a safe environmental choice. To find out more, visit www.uscatfish.com.
