Will Stein is wasting absolutely no time assembling his war room in Lexington. Just days after being introduced as the new head coach of the Kentucky Wildcats, Stein is reportedly dipping back into the talent pool at his former employer to bring a trusted lieutenant to the Bluegrass.
According to reports from CBS Sports, Kentucky is hiring Oregon assistant offensive line coach and run game coordinator Cutter Leftwich as an offensive assistant. Leftwich is a rising star in the coaching ranks who has been attached to Stein’s hip during their meteoric rise through the college football world.
He previously served as the offensive line coach at North Texas, proving he can run his own room, before joining Stein at Oregon. Perhaps most importantly, the two worked together at UTSA during the Roadrunners' offensive explosion. This isn't just a random hire; this is Stein bringing in a guy who knows the playbook, the terminology, and the standard of expectation before he even steps foot on campus.
The official title is unknown but the impact will be massive
We currently don't know what his official title will be, but seeing as he is an offensive line specialist, that may be a big hint regarding his responsibilities. He could slot in as the offensive line coach, or potentially take on a Run Game Coordinator role to oversee the ground attack. We will update you as soon as we get the official confirmation on his designation.
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Regardless of the title, Leftwich is seen as a relentless developer of talent. He has helped contribute to some high-octane offenses at UTSA and Oregon, units that were defined by their ability to protect the quarterback and run the ball with efficiency.
Kentucky football looking to rebuild the Big Blue Wall
That is exactly what Kentucky needs right now. The "Big Blue Wall," once the pride of the program, has shown cracks over the last two seasons. Struggling with protection and consistency in the run game has handicapped the offense. Bringing in a specialist like Leftwich, who understands the blocking schemes required to make Stein’s "feed the studs" offense hum, is a strategic masterstroke.
This hire also signals that Stein is prioritizing alignment. One of the hardest parts of a year-one transition is teaching the assistant coaches the system before they can teach the players. By hiring Cutter Leftwich, Stein eliminates that learning curve. They speak the same language. They have the same vision.
And now, they are going to try to replicate their Oregon success right here in the SEC. The new era is building its foundation, brick by brick.