Fresh off Kentucky’s upset win over Louisville, Mark Stoops put the Texas A&M rumors to rest.
Stoops, 56, committed to the Wildcats in a post on X after Kentucky’s 38-31 win over the No. 9 Cardinals on Saturday.
“I know there’s been much speculation about me and my job situation the last couple of days. 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 wrote. “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!”
Texas A&M is looking for a new coach after firing Jimbo Fisher two weeks ago, giving him the roughly $75 million left on his contract.
Multiple reports had stated that the Aggies were targeting Stoops, who is in his 11th season at Kentucky and has twice led the Wildcats to 10-win seasons.
As for where the Aggies turn now, The Athletic reports Texas A&M is interested in Ohio State’s Ryan Day and he is a “big wild card” in the event he wants to move on following another loss to rival Michigan on Saturday.
The Athletic also reports the school likes Kansas’ Lance Leipold, Duke’s Mike Elko and Kansas State’s Chris Kleiman.
Kentucky improved to 7-5 this season with the win over Louisville, ending their regular season on a high note after a tough stretch.
The Wildcats opened the season 5-0 before losing five of their next six games, which included three defeats to ranked SEC foes Georgia, Tennessee and Alabama.
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