Will Stein is on the move. After three years of engineering one of the most dynamic offenses in college football, Oregon’s offensive coordinator is heading to Lexington to become the next head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats.
It’s a move that’s been on the horizon for a while. Stein’s name has been circulating in coaching circles for the better part of two seasons, and with the Kentucky job opening up following the departure of Mark Stoops, the timing finally aligned.
The fit makes sense on multiple levels - Stein grew up in the region, spent his Saturdays watching Wildcats games as a kid, and later played quarterback for the Louisville Cardinals. Now, he returns to the Bluegrass State with a chance to lead a program of his own.
Stein’s résumé speaks for itself. Since arriving in Eugene, he’s built an offense that’s been as explosive as it is efficient.
Oregon ranks top-15 nationally in scoring, rushing, and total offense - a testament to both his scheme and his adaptability. This year, the Ducks are putting up 38.2 points per game (9th in FBS), rushing for 218.4 yards per game (14th), and averaging 465.2 total yards (13th).
And they’ve done it despite a rash of injuries that could’ve derailed lesser teams.
What’s made Stein stand out isn’t just the numbers - it’s what he’s done with his quarterbacks. Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel both thrived under his guidance, earning trips to New York as Heisman finalists.
And while the 2025 Heisman field hasn’t been finalized yet, there’s still an outside shot that Dante Moore joins that list. That kind of track record doesn’t go unnoticed - not by athletic directors, and certainly not by quarterbacks looking to elevate their game.
Now, the Ducks face a pivotal transition. With Stein headed to Kentucky, head coach Dan Lanning begins the search for a new offensive coordinator - someone who can keep the momentum going in Eugene.
One intriguing name already in the building is running backs coach RaShaad Samples, a rising star who’s earned plenty of respect within the program. Whether Lanning looks internally or casts a wider net, the next hire will be crucial in maintaining Oregon’s offensive identity.
As for Stein, he steps into his first head coaching role with a strong foundation and a clear vision. Kentucky is betting on his ability to revitalize a program that’s looking for a new direction - and based on what we’ve seen in Eugene, that bet might just pay off.