The Kentucky Wildcats have named Will Stein, a former Kentucky native and current offensive coordinator for the Oregon Ducks. The successor to Mark Stoops in what is considered one of the biggest hires of this cycle.
Playing Days
A favorite among Kentucky fans, Stein is a Wildcat native who played at the University of Louisville from 2008 to 2012. He went on to join the Louisville Cardinals staff as a graduate assistant and quarterbacks coach. He later made stops at Texas, Lake Travis High School in Texas, and UTSA. He now works under Oregon Ducks head coach Dan Lanning.
Will Stein played at Louisville but his dad never stopped going to Kentucky games. Stein is from a UK family that bleeds blue.
— Adam Luckett (@AdamLuckettKSR) December 1, 2025
"I grew up a die-hard Cats fan."
A homecoming could be in the works after a recruitment got lost in translation back in 2008: https://t.co/TxTbDaw5rs pic.twitter.com/l3KvX74hX7
Kentucky football is hiring Oregon OC Will Stein as its next head coach.
— Vince Wolfram (@vincewolfram15) December 2, 2025
Here’s the fun part: Stein and Louisville HC Jeff Brohm both played quarterback at Trinity High School, and both went on to play QB at the University of Louisville.
A Shamrock takeover in the Bluegrass. pic.twitter.com/akRYCZqKM8
Stein grew up watching Kentucky football, with parents who even had season tickets, making this a perfect prize for a family deeply rooted in Blue and White.
Offensive Explosion
For the past three seasons, Stein has served as Oregon’s play caller and quarterbacks coach, working with players like Bo Nix, Dillon Gabriel, and current starter Dante Moore. This season, the Ducks’ offense is averaging 2,821 total yards, showcasing Stein’s sharp offensive mind and contributing to an impressive 34-2 record during his time with the team.
The ability to work with quarterbacks is a big advantage, and with Kentucky already having Cutter Boley waiting, whether he transfers or stays is up to him. The cohesion is there if Stein wants to work with him, or he could choose to go in a different direction.
"I’m trying to find the best place, wherever that may be, whether it’s here or wherever I can kind of showcase what I can do in the best system for me.”
— Adam Luckett (@AdamLuckettKSR) December 1, 2025
Cutter Boley's future is undetermined. This will be the No. 1 recruit for whoever Kentucky hires.https://t.co/OWhYTPh3Ye pic.twitter.com/P4DGLhHfqU
Another key aspect of Stein’s offensive ability is his use of tight ends. Kentucky has a solid group to work with in Willie Rodriguez and Mikkel Skinner—a match made in heaven.
What This Means Going Forward
Kentucky Wildcat fans have been calling for more offense, and it’s an obvious move. Oregon is putting up over 36 points per game. In the SEC, scoring is essential to winning, and adding skilled players to those rosters can make a big difference.
FB: During the post game celebration, Coach Strong awarded the game ball to senior quarterback Will Stein. #L1C4 pic.twitter.com/sYdgRsOP
— Louisville Athletics (@GoCards) November 30, 2012
Will Stein: The Secret Genius Behind Oregon’s Scorching Offense | FOX Sports
Big Blue Nation hasn’t felt much hope in recent seasons, but today they’re energized, excited, and ready for a fresh start. Whether the first season is a success or not, it’s a renewal of hope and a chance to embrace new things—new faces, new players, and a clean slate. For the fans, that’s a bonus.
Expect a high-scoring showdown in Lexington—get ready for some real fireworks!
Coming Together For The Right Hire
Less than 24 hours ago, Kentucky parted ways with Mark Stoops and quickly turned its attention to Will Stein by Monday afternoon, after a Sunday meeting with Stoops. By Monday, the race was on between two coaches—Ohio State offensive coordinator Brian Hartline and Will Stein. Before long, the decision landed on Stein.
Plane tracking season was in full swing, with random sources emerging on social media. It was a wild day for a Kentucky football program that’s been craving some excitement, and today they found their guy—a man who will bring both stability and fun to the team.
Somebody let me know if that Lexington to Columbus plane takes off.
— Matt Jones (@KySportsRadio) December 1, 2025
This is good old school “The Door” KSR content
End Of My Kentucky Wildcats Football Rant

A new era kicks off in Lexington next season, featuring an exciting offense built on the foundation laid by Stoops and his staff. It will serve as a solid building block that will benefit Stein and his team for years to come.
Plan revealed for Will Stein and Oregon in the College Football Playoff
This is a major slam-dunk hire that’s gaining a lot of national attention. Time to get to work, Will Stein, and welcome home.
For more coverage of Jon, Click here. Auburn And Kentucky: A Critical Match For Struggling Coaches
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