Who Are These Cats? Kentucky's 10 Most Important Games

It's a new season with new expectations, but will the outcomes be any different? The newcomers have something to prove and the veterans are hungry for more. There are some early tests, but we will find out a lot after the new year.

The following games will show us something about this Kentucky team.

Non-Conference

1. Nov. 18, 2008: UK vs. UNC

This is an early test for the young Cats going to Chapel Hill. The matchup everyone is looking to will be Patrick Patterson and Tyler Hansbrough. This might not happen with the injury to Hansbrough, but he has been historically ineffective against the 'Cats.

UK will need to stop the outside play of the Heels even if they lack Ginyard. The young guards will have to play well if they want to be in the game.

2. Nov. 29, 2008: UK vs. WVU

This possible game is intriguing. The Big East is stacked, and even though they are picked to finish ninth, the Mountaineers will be competitive. Bob Huggins will have this team ready to play.

3. Dec. 6, 2008: UK vs. Miami

A team that made it to the second round last season and returns a lot of players will be dangerous. Miami is picked to finish third in a tough ACC. Don't overlook the 'Canes.

4. Jan. 4, 2009: UK vs. Louisville

The game all Cat fans look forward to will be a tough one. The Cards are highly ranked and have picked up some talent. Patterson against the freshman Samardo Samuels will be interesting, and the guards will have to contain UL to win this one. The Cats could have one and possibly no losses going into this game. It will be a thriller.

SEC Play

5. Jan. 10, 2009: UK vs. Vandy

The 'Dores have had Kentucky's number lately, but that should come to an end this year. Still, Vanderbilt should be given respect. If there is a lull from the Louisville game, it could be a long night.

6. Jan. 13, 2009: UK vs. Tennessee

This is turning into a fierce rivalry and should be a good game. If the Cats want to win the SEC, they need one from the big Orange.

7. Jan. 24, 2009: UK vs. Alabama

If the Tide get back on track this season, this could be a barnburner. The Cats must contain Ronald Steele in this contest.

8. Feb. 21, 2009: UK vs. Tennessee

Depending on the first game, part two could be very interesting. Scotty Hopson hopefully has a not so warm welcome home, and if the Cats are playing well, this could put them in the hunt for a title.

9. Feb. 28, 2009: UK vs. LSU

The Tigers are picked to win the West and return most of their team. How will LSU be at this point in the season with their new coach? Only time will tell, but if they're playing well, this could be a must win.

10. Mar. 7, 2009: UK vs. Florida

The Gators look good and are gearing up to get back to the top. Patterson should have a good game with the Gators' lack of a post presence, while Jodie Meeks looks to get it done against Walter Hodge. This game at The Swamp could be one for SEC tournament position and will be big for both teams.

If things fall into place, the Cats could be sitting pretty come tournament time. I don’t want to make any record predictions just yet, but SEC play should be just as good as last year, if not better. They should make it into the dance easily if they take seven of these games. Only time will tell, but it's going to be a fun year!