The University of Kentucky Wildcats have a rich history of being ranked in the AP Preseason Top 25, but their journey to the top has been a rollercoaster. Despite the recent disappointment of missing the list in 2026, the Wildcats have had their fair share of triumphs. Here's a deep dive into the five times Kentucky earned a preseason ranking, exploring the stories behind each achievement.
A New Era, A New Beginning
The 2026 season marks a fresh start for Kentucky football under the leadership of first-time head coach Will Stein. While the team didn't crack the Top 25 this year, it's important to remember that preseason rankings are just a snapshot. The Wildcats' future is bright, and with a new era comes the potential for exciting developments.
2022: A Resurgence
The 2022 season was a turning point for Kentucky. After a disappointing Mark Stoops era that culminated in two losing seasons, the Wildcats found their footing. Led by a strong showing in the previous year, including a 10-win season, a Citrus Bowl victory, and a program-record four straight bowl wins, Kentucky climbed to #20 in the preseason poll. While they finished 7-6, it was a significant step forward.
1978: The Comeback Story
Fran Curci's sixth season as head coach in 1978 saw Kentucky rise from the ashes. Coming off a probation season with a 10-1 record and impressive wins at LSU and Penn State, the Wildcats were ranked #15 in the preseason poll. Despite a 4-6-1 finish, the program's resilience and potential were evident.
1957: Expectations Unmet
In 1957, Kentucky found itself ranked #20 in the preseason poll after a 6-4 year with a 4-4 SEC record in 1956. However, the Wildcats couldn't live up to the hype under Blaton Collier's leadership, finishing 3-7 with only one SEC win. This highlights the challenge of translating preseason hype into on-field success.
1951: National Champions and AP Recognition
The 1951 season was a pinnacle moment for Kentucky football. Coached by the legendary Bear Bryant, the Wildcats beat undefeated Oklahoma in the Sugar Bowl and claimed the national championship with an 11-1 record. Their highest AP ranking of #6 was a testament to their dominance. The fact that they received a first-place vote in the AP poll further cements their place in history.
1950: Climbing the Ranks
Kentucky's first-ever preseason ranking in 1950 set the stage for a historic season. Ranked #13, the Wildcats climbed to #3 with a 10-0 start. Although a loss in Knoxville disrupted their perfect record, they went on to upset AP No. 1 Oklahoma in the Sugar Bowl. This showcases the power of a strong start and the potential for a remarkable run.
Looking Ahead
The Wildcats' journey through the AP Preseason Top 25 rankings is a testament to the program's resilience and potential. While they may not always make the cut, the stories behind each ranking reveal a team with a rich history and a bright future. As Kentucky embarks on a new era, the lessons from past successes and setbacks will undoubtedly guide their path towards continued growth and improvement.
