Kentucky Eyes Oregon OC Stein for Coaching Role

Kentucky is actively pursuing Will Stein, the offensive coordinator for Oregon, as its next head coach. Negotiations between the two parties are reportedly in progress, according to sources contacted by ESPN’s Pete Thamel.

Kentucky’s Coaching Search

Will Stein, a 36-year-old Kentucky native, has gained recognition as one of the top offensive coordinators in college football. His experience in coaching quarterbacks has been instrumental in Oregon’s success. Despite the potential move, Stein will continue his role during Oregon’s playoff run.

Oregon’s Recent Performance

This year, the Ducks finished their regular season with an impressive 11-1 record and held the sixth position in the College Football Playoff rankings. Stein joined the Oregon staff in 2022 after a stint at UTSA, where he was co-offensive coordinator during his final season.

• Joined Oregon in 2022
• Previously co-offensive coordinator at UTSA (2020-2022)
• Oregon achieved a top 10 scoring offense in two of three years under Stein

Coaching Background

During his tenure, Stein coached two Heisman Trophy finalists: Bo Nix (2023) and Dillon Gabriel (2024). His predecessor, Kenny Dillingham, left Oregon in 2023 to take the head coaching position at Arizona State. Like Dillingham, Stein has ties to the region, having played quarterback at Louisville from 2009 to 2012 and grown up attending Kentucky games.

Kentucky’s Recent Challenges

After a disappointing 5-7 season, Kentucky parted ways with long-time coach Mark Stoops following 13 seasons. In the last three years, the Wildcats have struggled offensively, finishing no better than 100th in total offense and averaging only 341 yards, which ranked 105th in the nation this season.

Stein’s Offensive Philosophy

Stein aims to transform Kentucky’s offense. He emphasizes a fast-paced, flexible system that empowers quarterbacks. “It’s hard to put a label on what we do because we kind of do it all,” he explained in a recent interview. With a focus on quarterback development and innovative play-calling, Stein represents a bold choice for Kentucky’s future.

As discussions continue, it remains to be seen whether Stein will accept the role and lead Kentucky into a new chapter.