[citation needed] The rivalry between these two schools, located about 181 miles (291 km) apart, dates to their first meeting in 1896.

[6] On October 7, 1939, Kentucky won its first game in the series, defeating Vanderbilt by a 21–13 score before a crowd of 10,000 in Nashville.

[7] The Wildcats were led by the passing and running of sophomore Ermal Allen.

Kentucky quarterback Joe Shepherd also intercepted a Vanderbilt pass and returned it 70 yards for a touchdown.

[8] Series record sources: College Football Data Warehouse.