The Kentucky Wildcats are set to kick off their 2026 college football season today when they host the Youngstown State Penguins. Game time is set for 1 PM ET on SEC Network+, so it’s a stream-only game. But you can stream it through the ESPN App and ESPN Unlimited, with the latter now available on YouTube TV.
The debut of the Will Stein era is finally here for Kentucky, as the Cats hope this will be the start of a rebirth for the program after missing out on the postseason in the last two seasons.
This will also mark the first time we see Kenny Minchey as a starting quarterback after transferring in from Notre Dame, where he was the backup to Heisman favorite CJ Carr.
The Penguins come into this game ranked among the top-10 FCS teams. They’re led by a standout dual-threat QB in Beau Brungard, who will be a great test for this revamped defense.
Will Kentucky be able to get the W and start the season 1-0?
Pregame Reading
- Kentucky vs. Youngstown State viewing info, what to watch for, odds, and predictions
- Alex Afari is eligible to play in Week 1 after winning appeal vs. NCAA
- Kentucky Football gets jersey patch deal that looks questionable but makes total sense
- Get the best of A Sea of Blue on the new SB Nation app
- Adam Zouagui set to be Kentucky Football’s starting kicker
- Kentucky Football among AP Poll voters’ top 25 most underrated teams since 2014
- Kentucky Football continuing the Lift Them Up tradition under Will Stein
- Sam Greene available for opener vs. Youngstown State; Jovantae Barnes out
- Heaven Hill becomes UK Athletics’ official bourbon partner
Let’s Go CATS!
