When the Louisville Cardinals and Kentucky Wildcats clash for the Governor's Cup, it's more than just a game—it's a battle for state pride. But ever since the rivalry was permanently moved to the final week of the regular season, fans from both sides have been calling for a return to the opening weekend. Now, one of the sport's most intriguing new voices is joining that chorus.

Kentucky's new head coach, Will Stein, knows this rivalry better than most. Before taking the helm in Lexington, Stein was a quarterback at Louisville from 2008 to 2012, giving him a unique perspective on what this game means to the Commonwealth. With the SEC transitioning to a nine-game conference schedule, there were whispers that the Battle for the Governor's Cup might be at risk. Stein isn't having any of that.

"Yeah, I love the game," Stein told Big X Sports Radio's Michael Bennett. "Why would you not keep it? It's our home state rival. It gives people something to cheer about regardless of what's happening during the season."

For those who remember, the Cardinals and Wildcats kicked off the season together every year from 1994 through 2007. That changed when Kentucky, feeling the heat after a string of losses, pushed the game to week three in home years. Then, in 2014, it found a permanent home on the final weekend of the regular season—a spot that has left many longing for the old days.

Stein, who grew up watching the rivalry in its early-season glory, wants to turn back the clock. "I used to love it when we played it first," he said. "That's what I would do. I would move it up to opening weekend or early in the season. But you've got to play it. If you don't, I think that would be not good for the state of Kentucky as a whole."

It's hard to argue with that sentiment, especially given the recent results. Louisville has dominated the last two meetings, outscoring Kentucky a staggering 82-14. Whether that lopsided trend adds fuel to Stein's argument—or makes the Wildcats even more eager for a fresh start—remains to be seen. But one thing is clear: the Governor's Cup belongs on the calendar, and Stein wants it front and center.