Big 12 Coach secretely admires UCF Football: Knights Have ‘Upped Their Game in Every Way’
The arrival of the season has brought college football fans’ attention to the upcoming year as we enter the latter part of June. Athlon Sports, known alongside Phil Steele and Lindy’s as a prominent figure in the preview magazine industry, has secured its place on grocery store shelves nationwide.
During this phase of the season, the magazine traditionally conducts interviews with coaches, acquiring anonymous insights about other schools in their conference. In this context, we will delve into the perspectives of a Big 12 coach regarding the UCF Knights.
Gus Malzahn’s inaugural season with UCF in the Big 12 did not unfold as anticipated, resulting in a 6-7 (3-6 Big 12) record and a ninth-place league finish. However, a closer examination suggests a more promising outlook for the Knights in the future.
Among their six conference losses, three were determined by a margin of two points or fewer, with UCF posting a 1-3 record in one-possession Big 12 games. If these outcomes had been different, a discussion of a 9-4 finish and a completely different perspective on the 2024 season may have emerged. According to one Big 12 coach, UCF is on an upward trajectory, potentially beyond the immediate future.
“They’re getting better and better in recruiting, Gus has given them what the administration built for a long time — that real shot at being another power team in the state of Florida,” the coach expressed to Athlon Sports. “They’ve upped their game in every way.”
Looking ahead to 2024, one factor contributing to UCF’s potential success is the addition of quarterback KJ Jefferson, a transfer from Arkansas. The same Big 12 coach believes Jefferson is positioned for considerable success.
“KJ Jefferson was the no-brainer QB transfer of the offseason. He’s going to thrive in [Gus Malzahn’s] system, and there won’t be any adjustment needed from either side.”
In addition to Jefferson, UCF has fortified its lineup with playmakers at various positions of need, and even in positions that were already strong. For instance, Nyjalik Kelly, a transfer from Miami, is expected to make an immediate impact on the defensive front, along with USC cornerback Tre’quon Fegins. Daylan Dotson, Jesiah Pierre, and Byron Threats are also anticipated to bolster the defensive lineup.
On the offensive side, the standout addition is Peny Boone, who will complement RJ Harvey in the Knights’ backfield alongside their new quarterback. The combination of Boone and Harvey is poised to be one of the best in the country, particularly considering the Knights’ leading rushing performance in the Big 12 last season.
