Nicholas Smith, a highly regarded defensive lineman from Georgia, has solidified his commitment to the Kentucky Wildcats, reassuring fans and coaches alike that he remains fully dedicated to the Wildcats.

Despite increased attention from other programs, the 3-star recruit confirmed his plans to join head coach Mark Stoops’ defense in Lexington.

Smith, who originally announced his commitment to Kentucky earlier this year, has continued to impress with his size, strength, and potential as a defensive lineman. As his stock has risen, interest from other top programs has naturally followed, including a recent offer from the Alabama Crimson Tide.

However, Smith remains firm in his decision to play for the Wildcats, expressing confidence in Stoops’ leadership and the team’s future.

“I’m locked in with Kentucky,” Smith recently told KSR. “Coach Stoops and the coaching staff have been amazing throughout this whole process, and I really feel like this is where I belong. I want to be part of the growth and success that’s happening in Lexington.”

Stoops and his staff have built a reputation for identifying and developing top defensive players, and Smith’s decision to stay committed adds to the momentum the Wildcats are building on the recruiting trail. Smith’s versatility on the defensive front will provide Kentucky with another strong piece as they continue to bolster their defense.

Smith’s decision to reaffirm his commitment is a significant win for Kentucky’s 2025 recruiting class, which is shaping up to be one of Stoops’ strongest. His commitment strengthens the Wildcats’ future defense and sends a clear message that Kentucky is becoming a destination for top-tier defensive talent in the SEC.

Ole Miss needed a response after a disappointing loss to Kentucky in Week 5. It got just that with a 27-3 win over South Carolina on Saturday at Williams-Brice Stadium in Columbia.

The Rebels took a 7-0 lead in the first quarter after a short Henry Parrish run capped a quick 5-play drive that lasted just over a minute and a half. That lead stretched to 14-0 after JJ Pegues rumbled into the end zone with six minutes remaining in the frame.

After the two teams exchanged field goals, Pegues added another score right before the half, the big man’s 4th of the season. It was 24-3 at the break.

The Rebels added a field goal in the second half for the only other scoring the rest of the way, but the Gamecocks weren’t able to chip away at the lead. South Carolina’s Alex Herrera missed a 38-yard field goal just under 6 minutes into the third quarter, and despite forcing a fumble on the Rebels’ ensuing drive, the Gamecocks couldn’t turn it into points.

Later, with South Carolina deep in Ole Miss territory early in the 4th, LaNorris Sellers threw an interception into the end zone. They turned it over on downs on their next possession as Sellers was sacked at the Rebels 24.

Jaxson Dart had a decent performance throwing the ball — 14-of-27 for 285 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions — but had 8 carries for 44 yards. Juice Wells had 3 catches for 97 yards to lead all receivers in his return to Columbia. Parrish finished with 21 carries for 81 yards, including his first-quarter score.

For the Gamecocks, Sellers was 20-of-32 for 162 yards. He was sacked 6 times as the Rebels defense held South Carolian to 313 yards.

Ole Miss visits LSU next. South Carolina travels to Alabama.

OWENSBORO, Ky. (WEHT) — Fifteen firefighters from Owensboro, Daviess Daviess County, Henderson, Greenville, Airport-Sorgho fire departments and the Fire Academy of Kentucky partook in international training in Olomouc.

Through a Sister Cities Firefighter exchange program, these firefighters engaged in hands-on training like residential firefighting and flashover drills.

The goal of an exchange like this is to not only strengthen everyday skills for these local firefighters, but to also increase strong international ties.

It is said they also participated in on-duty shifts with the Olomouc Fire Department, responding to emergencies and putting their new skills to practice.

During the day, the firefighter were immersed in various scenarios and training courses but at night, they were hitting the streets of Olomouc. They got to experience a “unique exposition of fall decorations” at “Fall Flora” and supported a home team hockey game.

After 5 full days in the Czech Republic, the local firefighters made their way back to Owensboro Saturday morning. Officials with OFD says they arrived at midnight and are now regaining their rest after countless hours of travel.

This week-long exchange comes just months after their previous endeavor to the Czech Republic in April.

(Courtesy: Owensboro-Daviess County Firefighter Exchange Program)

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