Will Stein Revives Kentucky Football With Fast Start in SEC

Kentucky football has surged under first-year head coach Will Stein, with the Wildcats reaching a 4-1 record in the 2026 season after a series of comeback victories in Lexington and on the road. Stein has built support among players, fans and recruits through his offensive approach and Kentucky ties.

According to the Courier Journal, Kentucky sold out two games under Stein after not filling Kroger Field since 2024 homecoming. The outlet also reported the Wildcats ranked seventh nationally in average television audience through Week 5 with 5.144 million viewers.

Stein took over after serving as Oregon's offensive coordinator and helped Kentucky match its previous season SEC win total early in the year. The Wildcats defeated Texas A&M 31-21, South Alabama 45-21 and South Carolina 35-34 in overtime after trailing in each game, according to Kentucky.com.

After the overtime victory against South Carolina, Stein highlighted the team's confidence and belief in its direction.

"If you don’t believe in what we’re doing, man, you are high," said Will Stein, Kentucky head coach.

Stein's connection with Kentucky has also shaped the program's identity. The Courier Journal reported that he grew up in Louisville as a Kentucky fan and has embraced traditions including the Power K logo and the "Comeback Cats" nickname linked to the basketball program.

"I’m a big Wildcat basketball fan — ‘Comeback Cats’ right there. ‘Comeback freaking Cats,’ here in Columbia," said Will Stein, Kentucky head coach.

Kentucky athletic director J Batt said Stein's background has helped create a stronger connection between the coach and the fan base.

"He's of the commonwealth. He grew up in Louisville. He grew up a UK fan. ... there's a lot of positive synergy to that partnership," said J Batt, Kentucky athletics director and Champions Blue CEO.

Players have also pointed to Stein's emphasis on relationships. Senior defensive back Ty Bryant said the coach's approach differs from predecessor Mark Stoops and has helped strengthen team unity.

"But I think coach Stein, his approach, he's a little bit more — he's a younger guy, so obviously he's a little bit more energetic, and he just approaches things differently. And I love the way he approaches the game, life, things outside of football as well," said Ty Bryant, Kentucky defensive back.

The Wildcats next face a difficult stretch that includes a matchup with LSU, a road game at Oklahoma and later games against Tennessee, Florida, Missouri and Louisville.