For Will Stein, Kentucky football isn’t just his next stop, it’s in his blood. The son of UK alums, with his father Matt a former Wildcats defensive end and his mother Debbie a die-hard fan, Stein grew up in section 128, row 13, soaking up the sights and sounds of Commonwealth Stadium and dreaming of his shot on the sidelines. Now, after cutting his teeth as a collegiate quarterback and assistant before blossoming into an innovative play-caller, the 36-year-old Stein is set to take over as Kentucky’s head coach, as announced by Director of Athletics Mitch Barnhart, a full-circle moment that feels scripted for the Bluegrass.
Stein arrives via Oregon, where his fingerprints are all over one of college football’s most dynamic offenses, quarterback-friendly, balanced, dangerously fast. Two seasons of Heisman-caliber quarterback play, multiple NFL starters, and playoff success have become the norm under Stein, whose “Feed the Studs” philosophy made the Ducks’ offense a nightmare for opposing coordinators. His 2025 unit lit the scoreboard for over 38 points a game and was top-15 in every major category, with sophomore quarterback Dante Moore distributing the rock at a clip that ranked third nationally in completion percentage.
This hire signals a bold new direction for Kentucky football. Mitch Barnhart called Stein’s track record “outstanding,” specifically highlighting his quarterback development and ability to scheme to his personnel, attributes Big Blue Nation has long craved. President Eli Capilouto doubled down, pointing to Stein’s Kentucky roots and relentless drive, declaring: “He understands what this program means to our Commonwealth”.
Stein’s resume, though, extends far beyond Eugene: success at UTSA as co-offensive coordinator, a foundation built at Lake Travis High School, and, yes, Louisville ties from his own days as a Cardinal quarterback. But make no mistake: Stein’s vision, built around speed, creativity, and empowering his playmakers, feels tailor-made for Lexington’s next era.
Stein put it best himself: “Growing up in Kentucky and sitting in the stands at UK games as a kid, I could only dream of one day leading the Wildcats. This is truly a dream come true.” And for Wildcats fans longing for an explosive, modern offense, and a leader who bleeds blue, Will Stein just might be the one to turn those dreams into reality. photo courtesy UK Athletics.
