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(AP) -- Missouri really needed a break after a demoralizing start in its debut season in the SEC.

A week off helped rid the aftertaste of a 32-point loss at home to top-ranked Alabama and the Tigers (3-4, 0-4 SEC) could be finally getting a bit of a breather in the schedule.

Even without quarterback James Franklin, again sidelined by a sprained left knee, they're two-touchdown favorites to beat Kentucky and finally secure victory No. 1 in their new conference in the homecoming game Saturday.

The Wildcats (1-7, 0-5 SEC) have lost six in a row, though last week they lost by just five points at home to No. 12 Georgia. Coach Joker Phillips said he hasn't seen a drop in enthusiasm, likely because the team is so young.

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