WATCH: Mark Stoops talks after Kentucky's win at Auburn

by: Tyler Thompson7 hours agoMrsTylerKSR

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Mark Stoops was a happy man following Kentucky’s 10-3 win over Auburn, the Cats’ first SEC victory since September 2024. Although Stoops’ seat is hot, he was happiest for his players, who finally got to celebrate a victory after four straight losses, some in heartbreaking fashion.

“Obviously, very big victory for us, for our program, our players deserve it. I’m proud of them. I thank them for their effort, along with the coaches. No, it’s fair to say, it’s been a tough year. There’s been a lot of close calls. There’s been some not-so-close, but our players never flinch. They never submit to any outside noise or pressure; they just stay the course. I’ve told you over and over again, because it’s the truth, how much I enjoy coaching them, and how much our coaches enjoy coming to work every day, even in tough times.”

Fittingly, the defense was the biggest reason the Cats are leaving Auburn with a win. After some bad performances, Brad White’s unit buckled down and held the Tigers to just three points, coming up huge down the stretch to seal the victory. When asked by our very own Adam Luckett if that made this a “culture win” for the program, Stoops talked about how much he loves this group and believes in their progress.

“I think that’s fair. I mean, even in tough losses, where we’ve lost by too many [points], I love these guys. I mean, it’s not for the lack of effort or lack of want to, so I don’t want to say that. You guys could write it or say it. I don’t know. I like this team. They like each other. They work hard, they care, and we’re getting better. I’ve said that. It’s not always evident. I know it’s a bottom-line business. I know it’s a result business, but I know we’re getting better in a lot of areas.”

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Stoops shared more praise for the defense, the offense, and especially special teams during the nine-minute conversation. Hit play to watch it all below.