Mark Stoops addresses rumors linking him to Texas A&M opening

Texas A&M is hoping to have its coaching search wrapped up in the near future, with a few candidates rising to the top. One of those is reportedly Kentucky head coach Mark Stoops, who would be following someone he used to work under in Jimbo Fisher. Stoops has been linked to plenty of jobs throughout the years but this one seems to have legs.

Following the game, Stoops was asked about the rumors linking him to Texas A&M. He made sure to keep attention on Kentucky’s huge rivalry win against Louisville on Saturday. Stoops did not directly respond to him potentially leaving for College Station.

“This is a big win for our program and state,” Stoops said. “I’m keeping the focus and concentration on our team.”

Stoops would bring something to Texas A&M Fisher did not — experience in the SEC. For the past 11 seasons, Stoops has been with Kentucky and brought the program great success. Only three head coaches have ever won double-digit games in Lexington, with Stoops doing it twice. Bear Bryant (1950) and Fran Curci (1977) are the other two.

Texas A&M would be an attractive job for multiple reasons but mainly, Stoops would have a ton more resources available to him. Mostly in the recruiting world, where the Aggies have proven in the past they are not afraid to compete in the NIL world.

Pete Thamel names Mark Stoops a candidate for Texas A&M job

ESPN’s College GameDay spent part of their show on Saturday morning discussing the Texas A&M opening, with Pete Thamel naming off a few candidates. He spoke more on Stoops than others, claiming the next 24 hours will be “critical” if there is going to be an agreement between the two.

“One name that’s expected to emerge in the next 24 hours is Kentucky coach Mark Stoops,” Thamel said. “He coaches a rivalry game against Louisville today and the next 24 hours will be critical for his candidacy.”

Both Kentucky and Texas A&M saw their regular season end on Saturday. Both are bowl-eligible and will have one more game to play somewhere in the month of December. However, with how today’s college football works, they cannot wait around in College Station.

If Stoops is going to be the guy, getting him officially hired as soon as possible will be a top priority. Closing out strong on National Signing Day while the NCAA transfer portal opens as well is critical toward having a successful transitional offseason.