Kentucky fires offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello after one season

With the regular season over, Kentucky had some things it needed to address when it came to its program. They made some minor moves to start the week on Monday. However, the big domino fell today with news that the Wildcats had fired offensive coordinator Rich Scangarello.

Per Kentucky Sports Radio, a spokesperson from the university told BBN Tonight in Lexington that the program was in search of a new play-caller.

This comes after what became a disappointing lone season for Scangarello at UK. He came to the program from the San Francisco 49ers last offseason to replace Liam Coen on Mark Stoops’ staff. Many expected a seamless and successful transition because of the pro connection between their offenses. However, that was not the case as evidenced by how their regular season played out.

The Wildcat offense finished outside the Top-100 in the country with an average of just 22.1 points per game. They also finished dead last in the SEC in total yards (4,036), yards per game (336.3), and total points (265). Considering Coen had similar pieces working as one of the program’s most exciting offenses in recent memory at 32.3 points per game just a year ago, it was highly disappointing and, in the end, cost Kentucky several games.

It’s hard to know how much blame to actually place on Scangarello. Chris Rodriguez missed the first four games of the season, the offense’s best wideouts were freshmen, their offensive line was the worst one they’ve utilized in years, and star quarterback Will Levis was hampered all season by injuries. Still, several in the Bluegrass were calling for his job by season’s end. Now, for better or worse, Stoops and the program have granted that wish.

Kentucky is now in a position where they have to nail Scangarello’s replacement. With several pieces headed out and a young core remaining, they’ll need someone they can transition to who will provide their prospects with some stability. That’s especially true considering the next hire will be Stoops’ fourth offensive coordinator in as many years. The Wildcats have their identity as a program. If they want to continue to compete, though, getting this process right and making sure it sticks will be vital.