Exciting News: Will Stein Takes the Helm as Head Coach of Kentucky Football!

Will Stein is back where it all started. A native of Kentucky, Stein was raised with a love for the Wildcats. His father, Matt, played football at UK, and his mother, Debbie, has been a fan ever since. Will attended many games at what is now Kroger Field, particularly from section 128, row 13. Later, he competed there as a quarterback and then became an assistant coach.

Recently, Stein was named head coach of the Kentucky football team. UK Director of Athletics, Mitch Barnhart, expressed excitement about Stein’s return, emphasizing his successful track record in developing quarterbacks and leading strong offenses. This vital connection to Kentucky and its football culture makes Stein uniquely qualified. “We are thrilled to welcome him back to his roots,” Barnhart said.

Stein’s coaching journey has been impressive. Before returning to Kentucky, he spent three years at the University of Oregon as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Under his guidance, Oregon’s offense ranked among the best in the nation. As of 2025, the team scored an average of 38.2 points per game and featured a balanced attack, averaging 218.4 rushing yards and 246.8 passing yards per game. Stein’s ability to adapt his offensive strategies to suit different players played a significant role in this success.

His success is evident in the performance of quarterbacks like Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel, both of whom went on to have promising NFL careers. Nix was even selected as a first-round pick in the 2024 draft, underscoring Stein’s skills in talent development. “I want to help young men grow both on and off the field,” Stein stated, highlighting his commitment to player development.

Looking back, Stein’s path includes coaching at various levels. He began as a graduate assistant at Louisville after playing quarterback there. Under various roles, he gained valuable experience at Texas and Lake Travis High School in Texas, where he helped lead his team to great playoff success. This extensive background has shaped his coaching style and philosophy, which focuses on engaging multiple players in the game. His “Feed the Studs” approach ensures that everyone gets involved, keeping defenses guessing.

Stein’s return to Kentucky comes at a pivotal moment for the program. The Wildcats have a loyal fan base known as Big Blue Nation, and they are eager for success. Stein’s deep-seated passion for the program, combined with his track record, fuels optimism among fans and players alike. As they prepare for the upcoming season, both Stein and the community are excited about what lies ahead. With a focus on teamwork and player development, Stein aims to elevate Kentucky football to new heights.

For more insights into Stein’s impact and Kentucky’s football future, read more on the University of Kentucky’s athletics page or visit trusted sports news sources like ESPN.

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