LEXINGTON, Ky. (WMDJ) — Kentucky opened the Will Stein era in convincing fashion Saturday, defeating Youngstown State 45-13 at Kroger Field.

The Wildcats scored touchdowns on their first three possessions and carried a 28-7 lead into halftime before finishing with 506 yards of total offense. Kentucky's 45 points were the most scored by a UK team in a head coach's debut.

Quarterback Kenny Minchey was sharp in his first start, completing 18 of 27 passes for 301 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions. Kentucky also rushed for 205 yards, averaging six yards per carry, while CJ Baxter scored twice on the ground.

One of the biggest changes was Kentucky's willingness to throw the football, including to its tight ends. The group combined for nine catches, 140 yards and two touchdowns, with Willie Rodriguez recording four receptions for 48 yards and a score.

The offensive line gave Minchey time to work and helped Kentucky consistently move the ball, although the defense showed some areas that will need improvement, particularly getting off the field and creating more pressure on third down. The Cats allowed the Penguins to convert eight third downs on 15 attempts. 

Kentucky will face a considerably tougher test next Saturday when Alabama visits Kroger Field for a 3:30 p.m. kickoff on ABC.