Losers of 2 straight, Kentucky desperately seeks a win against No. 11 Florida on Saturday

LEXINGTON, Ky. – Kentucky has been knocked on its heels again after two straight road losses, a major blow to the defending national champion's postseason hopes.

It's time for another gut check.

The Wildcats host No. 11 Florida Saturday in their Southeastern Conference finale. The showdown loomed large before the setbacks, including Thursday's 72-62 loss at Georgia. Now, while Kentucky (20-10, 11-6) desperately needs a win, beating the SEC regular season champion Gators (24-5, 14-3) will be tough unless the Wildcats turn things around in a hurry.

Florida drilled Kentucky 69-52 in Gainesville on Feb. 12, the game in which Kentucky freshman Nerlens Noel sustained a season-ending knee injury. The Wildcats are 3-3 without their dominating big man.

Sitting on the NCAA tournament bubble, Kentucky needs a strong performance at Rupp Arena Saturday.