LEXINGTON, Ky. —

With the official announcement coming out of Lexington on Monday morning that the university is parting ways with head coach Mark Stoops , the conversations surrounding a list of potential replacements have picked up.

Here's a breakdown of the top names connected to the Wildcats head coach opening:

Will Stein, Oregon offensive coordinator

Soobum Im Will Stein

Stein, a former Trinity (three-time state champion) and University of Louisville quarterback, has emerged as a popular candidate for the job.

Following his success at Louisville, Stein started his coaching career as a graduate assistant with the Cards in 2013 before moving into an offensive quality control role in 2014.

Later, Stein reunited with former Louisville head coach Charlie Strong at Texas then tra

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