Kentucky · SECYoungstown State brings a rushing test to Kentucky’s opener
The Penguins ran for more than 250 yards in their 43-10 win over Mercyhurst and now face a Kentucky defense that went 0-10 when allowing at least 145 rushing yards over the past two seasons.
AUG 29, 2026
Eight days before Kentucky opens its 2026 season, Youngstown State visits Sept. 5 with a running game fresh off a 43-10 win over Mercyhurst — an immediate test for a Wildcats defense trying to improve after a 5-7 season.
The Penguins topped 250 rushing yards while averaging seven yards per carry against Mercyhurst. They averaged 202 rushing yards per game last season, with quarterback Beau Brungard at the center of an attack Kentucky must contain.
That matchup carries a clear number for the Wildcats: They went 0-10 over the past two seasons when opponents reached 145 rushing yards. Kentucky has added Western Carolina transfer Hasaan Sykes and Florida transfer Jordan Castell to its defensive personnel.
The offensive overhaul has its own unanswered question. Kentucky expects to start eight transfers on offense, including Notre Dame transfer Kenny Minchey, but has not confirmed its starters or whether Minchey will open at quarterback.
Kentucky has won five straight season openers and eight of its past nine. It hosts Youngstown State at 1 p.m. ET next Saturday with Brungard and the Penguins’ ground game as the first assignment.