News came down on Monday afternoon that had been expected for quite some time in Eugene.
Oregon Ducks offensive coordinator Will Stein is moving on from Eugene and beginning his head coaching career. It’s the Kentucky Wildcats who are hiring Stein after parting ways with long-time head coach Mark Stoops less than 24 hours ago. Stein, a Kentucky-native, was among the top candidates for the job, and the two sides moved quickly in getting a deal done.
During his three years with the Ducks, Stein has developed a reputation as a bit of a quarterback whisperer, sending both Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel to New York as Heisman Trophy finalists. While the finalists have not yet been announced for 2025, there is a chance that Dante Moore gets the invite as well, though he may be on the outside looking in when it comes to serious contenders.
While it’s a bummer to see Stein leave Oregon, many fans were happy that he gets this opportunity to take over his own team. Here’s how fans reacted on social media on Monday afternoon:
The Geoff Schwartz Approval
Good for Stein. He’s earned this opportunity. Hope he does well. https://t.co/77hIZcTKkL
— Geoff Schwartz (@geoffschwartz) December 2, 2025
I know Oregon fans are going to panic because Stein is leaving. And Tosh is likely gone also. If you’re a successful program you’re going to have assistant coaches take HC jobs. Lanning has hit home runs with all his hires. I would expect the same to replace these coaches.
— Geoff Schwartz (@geoffschwartz) December 2, 2025
Hot Board Season
Fire up the OC hot board for the most attractive offense job in the nation 😈🦆 pic.twitter.com/Mk0zVZaSPy
— Lucy (@hilucyleduck) December 2, 2025
End on a High Note!
So, Oregon will need 2 new coordinators after this season if the DC gets the Cal job.
Time to go win the natty before they depart.
— Big Ten information and news (@Genetics56) December 2, 2025
Take Notes
Pay close attention to the Oregon fans who celebrate Stein leaving like he wasn’t elite.
— QB11 (@Qb11Sd) December 2, 2025
What Could Go Wrong?
CFP with no coordinators pic.twitter.com/uNa4pxinvx
— Geaux Ducks (@GeauxDuck) December 2, 2025
Paolo is In
I feel like this hire could age better than other high-profile SEC ones made in this cycle https://t.co/qEoUcD3RwP
— Paolo Uggetti (@PaoloUggetti) December 2, 2025
This is the Formula
My personal wish-list for how Dan Lanning fills the Will Stein vacancy?
Promote RaShaad Samles to OC. Elevate Ross Douglas to co-OC and passing-game coordinator. Hire an elite QB coach. Bring on Chip Kelly as a senior analyst.
— Zachary Neel (@zacharycneel) December 2, 2025
Can You Imagine
Welcome home, Brian Hartline 🦆 pic.twitter.com/bfGm7ezMN0
— Lucy (@hilucyleduck) December 2, 2025
Contact/Follow @Ducks_Wire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Oregon Ducks news, notes, and opinions.
This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Oregon Duck fans react on social media to Will Stein’s departure
