Will Stein Commends Kenny Minchey's Intensity and Readiness for Kentucky's Football Season As the Kentucky football season approaches, head coach Will Stein has been reflecting on his team’s preparations ahead of the opener. During a media session on Tuesday, Stein emphasized the importance of mental readiness for quarterback Kenny Minchey, who is set to make his first career start in the SEC. Minchey, a transfer from Notre Dame, has spent the spring and summer adapting to Stein’s system, a process Stein described as impressively swift. “He’s been exceptional from the minute he stepped on campus. He’s dove into the playbook so deeply it feels like he’s been in my system for years,” Stein said during a June interview on the Jim Rome Show. Stein’s message to Minchey focuses on overcoming pre-game nerves and embracing the opportunity. “There’s going to be butterflies. If you don’t, then you’re probably not human. So that’s okay. The key is taking all fear out of it. Don’t be afraid to fail,” Stein explained. He highlighted the extensive preparation Minchey has undergone, including winter, spring, and summer walkthroughs, as well as countless practice sessions. “He’s done it in practice. So that’s what he needs to do—just go out there and take the easy money and run the show, run the offense,” Stein said. Stein also praised Minchey’s fiery intensity, particularly his ability to channel frustration into focus. “I loved his intensity today. I like Kenny when he gets a little angry. Not in a bad way—like he just has some S-H-I-T to him, and I love that,” Stein said. He noted that Minchey’s competitive drive, evident during practice, has been a positive influence on the team. “He was fired up today, and that got me fired up too,” Stein added.#sec #kentucky_football #will_stein #kenny_minchey #jim_rome_show
Kentucky Football Roster Spotlight: C.J. Baxter's Return to the Field As the 2026 Kentucky football season approaches, the Wildcats are focusing on introducing their roster, with C.J. Baxter emerging as a key player. Baxter, a 6'1", 227-pound running back from Boynton Beach, Florida, has been a standout prospect since his recruitment in 2023. Rated five stars by 247Sports and ranked No. 30 overall, he received offers from nearly all top programs before ultimately committing to the Texas Longhorns over Florida State. Baxter’s collegiate career began with promise in his freshman season, where he rushed for over 600 yards and scored five touchdowns, showcasing his potential as a dynamic playmaker. However, his 2024 season was cut short due to a serious injury, forcing him to sit out the entire year. Upon his return in 2025, he struggled to reclaim his previous standing on the depth chart, tallying just 54 carries for 196 yards. The setback highlighted the challenges of recovering from a major injury and adapting to a new team environment. After the 2025 season, Baxter entered the transfer portal, seeking a fresh opportunity. He ultimately chose to join the Kentucky Wildcats, aiming to rebuild his career. Known for his ability to run through tackles and his solid receiving skills out of the backfield, Baxter is expected to play a central role in coach Will Stein’s offensive strategy. However, the coaching staff has emphasized a cautious approach to avoid overworking him, given his NFL-level talent and the lingering concerns about his health. Baxter’s return to Lexington marks a significant moment for the team, as he brings both physicality and versatility to the offense. His ability to contribute as both a runner and receiver could provide the Wildcats with a versatile weapon in their playbook.#kentucky_wildcats #texas_longhorns #c_j_baxter #boynton_beach #will_stein
