Kentucky Football head coach Will Stein has made one thing perfectly clear: the Governor's Cup rivalry with Louisville isn't going anywhere. In fact, he wants to see it get even bigger.

Speaking with Michael Bennett of Just The Cats this week, Stein addressed growing concerns about the future of the annual showdown. With the SEC pushing toward a nine-game conference schedule and requiring at least one additional Power Four opponent, some feared the Wildcats might eventually drop their in-state rivalry game.

Stein put those worries to rest. "There are nine conference games, plus Louisville," he said. "I love the game, why would you not? It's the home-state rival, it gives people something to cheer about, regardless of what's happening during the season."

The head coach also revealed a bold idea for the rivalry's future: move it from its traditional Thanksgiving weekend slot to the very beginning of the season. "I used to love it when we played it first," Stein added. "That's what I would do, I would move it up to the opening weekend or early in the season."

Since its revival in 1994, the Governor's Cup has become one of the most anticipated annual events in the Bluegrass State. While Louisville has dominated the last two meetings by a combined score of 82-14, Kentucky previously rattled off five straight wins during the Mark Stoops era. The back-and-forth nature of the rivalry only adds to its intensity.

For Stein, preserving this tradition isn't just about football—it's about identity. As he begins his tenure leading the Wildcats, keeping the Governor's Cup on the schedule is clearly a top priority. Whether it stays in November or moves to Week 1, one thing is certain: this rivalry isn't going anywhere.