Lexington, Ky. – The University of Kentucky Wildcats kicked off the 2026 college football season on a high note, defeating Youngstown State 45-13 at Kroger Field on Saturday afternoon. The win marks head coach Will Stein’s first game in charge and gives the program a confident start to the Stein era.
Early dominance sets the tone
From the opening snap, Kentucky seized control. Freshman quarterback Kenny Minchey engineered an 80‑yard opening drive, connecting with freshman wide receiver Kenny Darby for a 33‑yard gain before senior running back CJ Baxter capped the series with a 15‑yard touchdown run. Baxter struck again on the next possession, giving the Cats a 14‑0 lead after the first quarter.
Building a comfortable lead
The Wildcats continued to pull away in the second quarter, adding two more touchdowns before Youngstown State answered late with a score of its own. Kentucky entered halftime with a 28‑7 advantage.
Mid‑game highlights
In the third quarter, Minchey found freshman running back Prince Jean for a 26‑yard touchdown pass – Jean’s first career reception. The drive underscored the depth of Kentucky’s young offensive talent.
Finishing strong
Late in the fourth quarter, Minchey again linked with Darby, this time for a 37‑yard touchdown that effectively sealed the game. Kicker Adam Zouagui added a 28‑yard field goal, bringing the final tally to 45‑13.
Statistical snapshot
Minchey finished his debut with 301 passing yards, completing 18 of 27 attempts and throwing four touchdowns. Darby led the receiving corps with 74 yards and a score, while Patterson contributed 78 rushing yards. The balanced attack highlighted the offensive versatility that Stein hopes to build throughout the season.
Looking ahead
Next up for the Wildcats is a much tougher test: a home showdown with perennial powerhouse Alabama on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. The Crimson Tide will arrive in Lexington looking to continue its own winning tradition, while Kentucky hopes to prove that the Stein era can compete with the SEC’s elite.
Fans and alumni gathered in large numbers at Kroger Field, showing strong community support for the new coaching staff. The atmosphere reflected the deep ties between the university, its football program, and the surrounding Lexington community – a bond that many local families cherish as a source of pride and tradition.
Will Stein, a former assistant under former head coach Mark Stoops, expressed optimism after the win. “Our players executed the game plan perfectly,” Stein said. “We showed resilience, depth, and a commitment to the fundamentals that define Kentucky football. We’re excited to build on this momentum as we head into the toughest part of our schedule.”
As the Wildcats prepare for the Alabama game, local supporters are encouraged to attend, wear their blue and white, and continue to back the team that represents both the university and the broader Lexington community.
Original reporting: WLKY Louisville — read the source article.
