Kentucky’s new HC Will Stein arrived in Lexington to the sound of cheers, blue flags, and cautious optimism. The Wildcats had fired HC Mark Stoops after 13 seasons of stability without breakthrough, and in less than 24 hours, they turned to the 36-year-old architect behind Oregon’s offensive fireworks.

Will Stein didn’t waste time polishing talking points. He stepped to the podium and delivered the line that instantly told Kentucky who he is.

“The University of Kentucky was the one (job) I circled,” he told reporters. “Because I know what this place is and what it can be. But I’m honestly tired of saying what it can be. I’m ready to get some stuff done.”

Will Stein’s rise has been anything but accidental. Raised in Kentucky, shaped by Louisville, and refined by Oregon, he carries a biog

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