(LEXINGTON, Ky.)-in The University of Kentucky has appointed Will Stein as its next head football coach, marking a return to Lexington for the Louisville native who grew up cheering for the Wildcats.
Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart revealed the decision Monday, highlighting Stein’s accomplishments in developing quarterbacks and orchestrating productive offenses at the collegiate level.
“Will Stein has demonstrated excellence in quarterback development and coordinating dynamic offensive systems throughout college football,” Barnhart said. “Having grown up attending games here gives him a special connection to this program and community.”
A Kentucky Kid Returns Home
At 36 years old, Stein’s ties to the program extend back to childhood. The Louisville native spent his youth in the stands of what is now Kroger Field alongside his mother Debbie, while his father Matt—a former UK defensive lineman under Jerry Claiborne during the mid-1980s—instilled in him a love for the Wildcats.
“As a child sitting in those stands watching UK games, leading the Wildcats seemed like an impossible dream,” Stein said. “This opportunity truly represents a dream realized.”
Offensive Success at Oregon
Stein arrives from Oregon, where he coordinated the offense for three years under head coach Dan Lanning. His work produced consecutive years of quarterbacks finishing as Heisman Trophy finalists.
The Ducks compiled an 11-1 regular season this year and hold the sixth position in the current College Football Playoff standings. Their offense averages over 38 points per contest, ranking among the nation’s top 10. Quarterback Dante Moore has connected on nearly three-quarters of his throws for more than 2,700 yards.
Last year, Oregon captured the Big Ten title and secured the playoff’s top seed. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel earned third place in Heisman voting after an exceptional season and now plays professionally for Cleveland.
In Stein’s initial Oregon season in 2023, the offense dominated nationally in several categories including pass completion rate and fewest turnovers. Quarterback Bo Nix established an NCAA completion percentage record, earned third in Heisman consideration, and became a first-round NFL selection.
Versatile Offensive Approach
Stein has demonstrated an ability to customize his schemes around different quarterback styles while distributing opportunities across his roster. His approach has yielded multiple thousand-yard performers at various positions.
UK President Eli Capilouto emphasized Stein’s dual qualifications of coaching ability and program understanding.
“He has repeatedly proven his talent for developing young athletes at the highest level,” Capilouto said. “Additionally, his passion for this institution and understanding of what it means to this state runs exceptionally deep.”
Coaching Background
Prior to Oregon, Stein worked at UTSA for three years, where the team achieved a 30-10 record and claimed the 2022 Conference USA championship. The offense ranked nationally in multiple offensive metrics, and quarterback Frank Harris earned conference MVP honors.
After playing quarterback at Louisville through 2012—following a standout prep career at Trinity High School—Stein transitioned into coaching with graduate assistant and quality control positions. His résumé includes stints at Louisville, Texas, and as offensive coordinator at Lake Travis High School in Texas before joining UTSA in 2020.
Stein will remain with Oregon through their playoff run before assuming his duties in Lexington. He and his wife Darby are parents to two children, Joey and Demi.
