LEXINGTON, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky’s defense kept the Wildcats in the game through the first half Saturday, but No. 12 Alabama took control after halftime for a 45-17 victory at Kroger Field.

Mi’Quise Humphrey-Grace opened the scoring by tipping a Keelon Russell pass, securing the interception and returning it for a Kentucky touchdown. Alabama answered with a defensive score of its own when Luke Metz returned a Kenny Minchey interception 34 yards.

Minchey later found Henry Boyer for a 20-yard touchdown, and a 39-yard Adam Zouagui field goal sent Kentucky into halftime leading 17-13.

The Kentucky defense allowed only six offensive points during the first half while forcing three turnovers. However, the unit was repeatedly put in difficult situations as the Wildcats’ offense struggled to sustain drives.

Alabama capitalized on a Minchey fumble and a failed Kentucky fake punt during the third quarter, turning both short fields into touchdowns. The Crimson Tide outscored Kentucky 32-0 after halftime.

Kentucky finished with 209 total yards and converted only 1 of 14 third-down attempts. Alabama totaled 343 yards, including 155 on the ground.

The Wildcats return to the road next Saturday to face No. 10 Texas A&M in College Station. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m.