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Kentucky opens football season Saturday hosting Youngstown State at Kroger Field

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 31, 2026, 9:12 AM

Last updated Aug 31, 2026

Kentucky opens football season Saturday hosting Youngstown State at Kroger Field

Summary

Kentucky football begins the 2026 season on Saturday, Sept. 5, at 1 p.m. as the team hosts Youngstown State at Kroger Field. The matchup marks the debut of head coach Will Stein, who takes over for long-time coach Mark Stoops. While the Wildcats did not participate in a bowl game over the last two years, they enter the opener looking to improve upon a 14th-place preseason prediction in the SEC. Opponent Youngstown State already played this season, securing a 43-10 victory over Mercyhurst on Aug. 27. Kentucky last faced the Penguins in 2022, winning 31-0. The Wildcats are expected to showcase a revamped offensive line and new starters, including quarterback Kenny Minchey and running back CJ Baxter, as they aim to establish a stronger presence in the conference.

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By the Numbers

•Kentucky hosts Youngstown State at Kroger Field on Sept. 5 at 1 p.m.
•Will Stein makes his head coaching debut for the Wildcats in this matchup.
•Youngstown State enters the game coming off a 43-10 win against Mercyhurst.
•Kentucky quarterback Kenny Minchey will make his first college start against the Penguins.
•The teams previously played in 2022 when Kentucky won 31-0.

Latest Updates

9:12 AMYahoo Sports — Storylines, players to watch in Kentucky vs Youngstown State football opener

What they're saying

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Kentucky football is set to open its 2026 season. Here are storylines and players to watch in the Wildcats' opener against Youngstown State.
— Yahoo Sports

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