The brutal reality of Kentucky's 2025 Schedule
The 2024 season was one to forget in Lexington. Outside of a thrilling win over Ole Miss, Kentucky football struggled to gain momentum, finishing with little to celebrate. But as the 2025 season looms, fans are wondering: will it be more of the same, or is there reason for hope? Here are five bold predictions for the Wildcats this fall:
1) Brad White will leave Kentucky after the season
Defensive coordinator Brad White’s reputation remains solid despite recent struggles. With Vince Marrow already gone to Louisville, White may see the writing on the wall and look for a fresh start. His résumé will land him another defensive coordinator job quickly. Just last year he flirted with Florida State's DC job.
2) Mark Stoops will still be head coach in 2026
The numbers don’t lie—Kentucky is financially tied to Stoops. His buyout is nearly $30 million, and assistants’ contracts push the total cost of a staff overhaul around $45 million. Add in the expense of hiring a new coach and staff, and the price tag could soar toward $75 million. Unless Stoops retires, he’s not leaving.
3) Kentucky will win at most 4 games
The schedule is brutal: Georgia, Texas, Tennessee, Florida, Auburn, and Louisville all loom. Wins are likely against Eastern Michigan and Tennessee Tech, with Toledo as a toss-up. That leaves maybe four wins—at best.
4) Cutter Boley will start at least 3 games, though Calzada will be the week 1 starter
Whether due to injury or a season spiraling away, Kentucky will want to see what they have in the redshirt freshman. Boley represents the program’s future, and he’ll get his chance under center. But for week 1 Zach Calzada is the man Mark Stoops is married to.
5) The offensive line will improve in run blocking, struggle in pass protection
Kentucky added size and physicality up front, which should help the ground game. But pass protection remains a concern. Zach Calzada will face pressure, and the Wildcats may continue their drought without a 3,000-yard passer—the only SEC team still missing that milestone since 2012.
The reality? Kentucky football is staring at a tough climb in 2025. But even in a year that looks like another rebuilding season, maybe, just maybe, there is a reason to believe something unexpected could happen.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time, he spends time with his family, and watching Premiere League soccer. #UpTheAlbion