Kentucky starts coach Will Stein era hosting Youngstown State in Wildcats’ opener

The Kentucky Wildcats football team begins its new era under head coach Will Stein, facing off against Youngstown State in the team's inaugural game. The matchup is set for Saturday at 1 p.m. ET. Youngstown State's annual subscription fee for this event is $205.00 plus GST, with a subsequent payment of $233.00 plus GST set to auto-renew every 52 weeks.

This pricing offers a 10% discount compared to the regular annual price of $259.35. The offer is available to new subscribers and qualified returning members, with the ability to cancel at any time.

In terms of offensive performance, Youngstown State averages 341.1 yards per game, placing them 105th among FBS teams. They allow 374.2 yards per game, which ranks 67th nationally. Quarterback Beau Brungard leads the passing offense with 239.9 yards allowed per game, the 105th-best in the FBS. He has thrown for 232 yards, 3 touchdowns, and 1 interception, boasting a 68.8% completion rate.

Running back Beau Brungard contributes with 119 yards on 21 carries, including 2 touchdowns. Wide receiver Antuan Gardner adds 52 yards on 2 receptions, while Kenny Minchey, a Notre Dame transfer, throws for 196 yards, 76.9% completion rate, and 6 games. Running back Jason Patterson rushes for 560 yards on 57 carries, scoring 1 touchdown.

Wide receiver Willie Rodriguez rounds out the receiving corps with 310 yards on 23 catches and 1 touchdown.

Prior to this game, Youngstown State secured a 43-10 victory over Mercyhurst on August 27. Meanwhile, Kentucky suffered a 41-0 loss to Louisville on November 29, 2025. The Wildcats will also face No. 13 Alabama on September 12.