You almost have to admire the unwavering optimism, or perhaps the sheer defiance. Facing the media Monday after another lopsided SEC loss dropped his team to 2-5, Mark Stoops projected an upbeat demeanor, insisting that despite the ugly record, Kentucky football is actually improving.
'Definitely better'
"We are definitely better," Stoops stated, seemingly unfazed by the 10-game home SEC losing streak or the team's 1-14 record against Power Four opponents. "We’re far better although the record may not indicate that."
By what other measure than record is there to prove you are better than last year? The offense just had it first 3 TD game since 2023 and still lost by 22. The reason it was so lopsided? The defense just surrendered 56 points to Tennessee, the most allowed to the Vols since 2000. Yet, Stoops continued to preach patience, bizarrely framing his thirteenth year as part of a longer rebuild.
"I wish that the results would be better but I know we are better," he continued. "But you’re not going to do it in one year either. You have to build a roster over the course of at least two, three (years).”
The Indiana comparison looms large
That comment is particularly jarring when contrasted with programs like Indiana. Coach Curt Cignetti took over the Hoosiers in November 2023, inheriting a program historically less successful than Kentucky, which we discussed here. In less than two full seasons, Cignetti has gone 19-2, reached the College Football Playoff, and has Indiana positioned as a national contender again. He didn't need "two, three years" just to show basic competence; he delivered transformative results almost immediately. That is what NIL and the Transfer Portal can do, but not according to Stoops.
Mark Stoops, in year 13, is still talking about building blocks and future progress while the present crumbles. His insistence that the team is "better" feels increasingly disconnected from the reality fans witness every Saturday. While Athletic Director Mitch Barnhart appears to still believe in Stoops' vision, the coach's public comments sound less like reassurance and more like denial.
Drew Holbrook is an avid Kentucky fan who has been covering the Cats for over 10 years. In his free time he enjoys downtime with his family and Premier League soccer. You can find him on X here. Micah 7:7. #UptheAlbion