Lexington, Kentucky, December 1, 2025
The Kentucky Wildcats are seeking a new head coach following Mark Stoops’ departure, and Will Stein, the Oregon Ducks’ offensive coordinator, is a prominent candidate. At 36, Stein has gained recognition for his innovative offensive strategies. With deep ties to Kentucky, including a family history with the Wildcats, he’s not only seen as a tactical fit but also as someone who embodies the team’s culture. Stein’s impressive track record at Oregon makes him a compelling choice as the Wildcats move into a new era.
Lexington, Kentucky – The Kentucky Wildcats are on the lookout for a new head coach following the departure of Mark Stoops, and one standout candidate is Will Stein, the offensive coordinator for the Oregon Ducks. At just 36 years of age, Stein has made a name for himself in college football, especially during his tenure at Oregon where he has been pivotal in crafting a high-octane offense.
Stein’s coaching roots trace back to the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), where he co-offensive coordinated and coached quarterbacks in 2022. His journey also includes previous roles as the passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach at UTSA. Notable in his early career is his role as the offensive coordinator at Lake Travis High School in Austin, Texas, as well as his time as an offensive quality control analyst at the University of Texas. Stein’s own playing background is impressive; he was a quarterback at the University of Louisville from 2008 to 2012, amassing 1,273 passing yards during his time there.
Stein’s offensive strategies have brought exceptional success to Oregon’s football program. In 2023, under his guidance, the Ducks not only led the nation in total offense, but also in passing touchdowns, completion percentage, and first downs per game. His innovative approach has significantly contributed to the development of quarterbacks, showcasing his effectiveness as a mentor and leader.
What makes Stein’s candidacy particularly compelling is his connection to Kentucky. Born and raised in Louisville, he possesses strong familial ties to the University of Kentucky, as both his father played for the Wildcats and his mother is an alumna. This adds a layer of personal investment to his interest in leading the Wildcats, as he would be returning to his roots to help shape a program he holds dear.
As the Wildcats transition into a new era, Will Stein stands out not just for his impressive football credentials, but also for his cultural and emotional ties to Kentucky. The decision on the new head coach will significantly impact the future of the Wildcats, and with Stein’s track record, enthusiasm for leading his home team, and innovative offensive strategies, he presents a unique opportunity for the program’s advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Will Stein?
Will Stein is the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at the University of Oregon. He has been with Oregon since 2023, following a successful tenure at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA).
What is Stein’s coaching background?
Stein began his coaching career as an offensive quality control analyst at the University of Texas in 2015-2016. He then served as the offensive coordinator at Lake Travis High School in Austin, Texas, from 2018 to 2019. From 2020 to 2021, he was the passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach at UTSA, before becoming the co-offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach in 2022.
What achievements has Stein accomplished at Oregon?
Under Stein’s leadership, Oregon’s offense has led the nation in total offense, passing touchdowns, completion percentage, and first downs per game in 2023. His innovative coaching has been credited with developing quarterbacks who have excelled under his guidance.
What is Stein’s connection to Kentucky?
Stein is a native of Louisville, Kentucky, with strong familial ties to the state. His father played football for the Kentucky Wildcats, and his mother is an alumna of the university.
What is the current status of the Kentucky head coaching search?
The Kentucky Wildcats are in the process of selecting a new head coach to lead the program forward. Stein’s proven track record and deep connections to Kentucky make him a compelling candidate for the position.
Key Features of Will Stein’s Coaching Profile
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Position | Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach at the University of Oregon |
| Coaching Experience | University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA), Lake Travis High School, University of Texas |
| Notable Achievements | Led Oregon’s offense to national rankings in total offense, passing touchdowns, completion percentage, and first downs per game in 2023 |
| Connection to Kentucky | Native of Louisville, Kentucky; father played football for the Kentucky Wildcats; mother is an alumna |
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Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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