Mark Stoops' name has been linked to openings at both Auburn and Nebraska. But Kentucky football recently ponied up to sweeten Stoops' contract and ensure he remains the Wildcats' coach.
Stoops signed a contract extension Nov. 11, which will make him one of the nation's most well-compensated coaches.
The deal, while not publicly announced, had been in the works for more than a month, according to UK athletics director Mitch Barnhart.
"Continuity has become more and more important in today’s landscape, and make no mistake about it, the job that Coach Stoops has done is well known and highly regarded throughout the college football world," Barnhart said in the release.