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Kentucky Hires Will Stein To Lead Wildcats Offense

PUBLISHED Dec 2, 2025, 12:42 AM ET

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Kentucky Hires Will Stein To Lead Wildcats Offense

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 6

Center 100%

Sources: 6

LEXINGTON, Ky. Kentucky hired Oregon offensive coordinator Will Stein as head football coach Monday, replacing Mark Stoops after his 13-season tenure. Athletic director Mitch Barnhart announced a five-year deal and cited Stein’s Kentucky roots and quarterback development. Stein, 36, will take his first head-coaching post after serving as Oregon’s offensive coordinator, where his units averaged over 38 points in the 2025 regular season. Reports said he may finish Oregon’s College Football Playoff run before fully transitioning. He arrived in Lexington Tuesday and addressed fans Wednesday, outlining offensive, high-scoring intents for the program. Based on 6 articles reviewed and supporting research.

By James Porter | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Mark Stoops was fired after 13 seasons leading Kentucky (announced Monday).
Reports earlier Monday named Oregon OC Will Stein as Kentucky’s target (Pete Thamel/ESPN).
Kentucky announced Will Stein’s hiring Monday night; Barnhart cited Stein’s local ties and offense pedigree.
Reports indicated the contract is five years and Stein might finish Oregon’s College Football Playoff commitments.
Stein arrived in Lexington Tuesday and formally addressed fans and media Wednesday, outlining offensive plans.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 6
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6

Who Benefited

The University of Kentucky benefits from hiring a coach with local ties and an offensive track record, which may improve recruiting, energize the fan base, and aim to restore postseason consistency.

Who Impacted

Mark Stoops and parts of Kentucky’s coaching staff lost their positions, and current players will face system changes, staff turnover, and short-term uncertainty during the program’s transition.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 6
Right Leaning:: 0
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 6
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 100%, Right 0%

Who Benefited

The University of Kentucky benefits from hiring a coach with local ties and an offensive track record, which may improve recruiting, energize the fan base, and aim to restore postseason consistency.

Who Impacted

Mark Stoops and parts of Kentucky’s coaching staff lost their positions, and current players will face system changes, staff turnover, and short-term uncertainty during the program’s transition.