LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Kentucky football head coach Mark Stoops laid to rest rumors of a move to Texas A&M, saying he would stay put after the Wildcats thumped their in-state archrivals to hold on to the Governor’s Cup for another year.

Stoops’ name had been floated as a possible replacement for Jimbo Fisher, who was fired by Texas A&M. Speculation reached a fever pitch after the 11-year Kentucky coach pulled off a thrilling 38-31 victory Saturday over No. 9 Louisville. Stoops took to X, formerly known as Twitter, on Sunday to say he was staying put at Kentucky.

“It’s true I was contacted about a potential opportunity this weekend, but after celebrating a big win against our rivals with players I love like family, I knew in my heart I couldn’t leave the University of Kentucky right now,” Stoops shared. “I have a great job at a place I love, and I get to work with the best administration and greatest fan base in college football right where I’m at. I’m excited to say I’m a Wildcat!” 

Stoops had been mentioned as part of the short list to replace Fisher at Texas A&M ever since his departure. The university made the decision to buy out the rest of his contract at a whopping $75 million in order to get new leadership for the program after the Aggies struggled to meet expectations. 

According to Matt Jones, a Kentucky sports radio broadcaster, Stoops was not offered a raise or any incentive to stay at Kentucky. 

In 2022, Stoops became the longest-tenured coach in program history, topping legendary coach Bear Bryant. That season, Stoops also became the winningest coach in program history with a 26-16 win over Florida in Week 2. Stoops has led Kentucky to two 10-win seasons in 2018 and 2021. 

With Saturday's win, Stoops moves to a 73-64 record as head coach.