Arion Carter “Unlikely” To Play Against Kentucky

Image: Arion Carter/Instagram

By Aidan Sidoti

A major blow to the Vols’ defensive front.

The Tennessee defense may be without its leading tackler Saturday night in Lexington.

Linebacker Arion Carter is "unlikely" to play against Kentucky, though the situation remains uncertain and will continue to be monitored leading up to kickoff, On3’s Pete Nakos reports.

Carter has been the foundation of the Vols defense this season, leading the SEC with 61 tackles.

His absence would be a significant setback for Tennessee, especially against a Kentucky offense that leans heavily on the run, rushing for over 130 yards against a stout Texas defense last Saturday.

The Smyrna native’s impact was evident two weeks ago in Starkville, where he tallied a career-high 17 tackles and broke up the final pass in overtime to seal a 41-34 win over Mississippi State.

Kickoff between Tennessee and Kentucky is set for 7:45 p.m. ET on SEC Network.

The Vols enter the match looking to bounce back after last week’s loss to Alabama, while Kentucky looks to snap a three-game skid.