The UCF Knights are quickly emerging as one of the most exciting teams to watch in the Big 12 Conference. Their journey from a Division III program in 1979 to a potential powerhouse is nothing short of remarkable. Just 20 years ago, in 2004, the Knights endured a winless season, going 0-11. However, they dramatically turned things around, earning national recognition in 2017 with an undefeated 13-0 season, kicking off a dominant three-year stretch where they won 35 out of 39 games.
Last season marked the Knights’ debut in the Big 12, finishing with a 6-7 overall record and a 3-6 mark in conference play. But this year, UCF has made some significant moves that could propel them to the next level, starting with the addition of former Arkansas quarterback KJ Jefferson, who brings with him the strongest arm in the Big 12, according to Lindy’s Magazine.
Jefferson isn’t just any quarterback; he’s a dynamic playmaker who amassed impressive stats during his time at Arkansas, including 64 touchdown passes with just 17 interceptions over the last three seasons. He also brings dual-threat capabilities, having rushed for 1,876 yards and 21 touchdowns in his career. “This is a fresh start,” Jefferson said, expressing confidence that his SEC experience will serve him well in the Big 12. UCF head coach Gus Malzahn, who will be reclaiming play-calling duties this season, believes Jefferson has settled in well, noting his increased comfort since joining the team in the spring.
Jefferson will have plenty of support on offense, including a potent ground game led by RJ Harvey, who rushed for 1,416 yards last season with a 6.3-yard average and 16 touchdowns. Wide receiver Kobe Hudson, the league’s most dangerous deep threat according to Lindy’s, adds another dimension to the Knights’ offense after racking up 900 receiving yards on 44 catches, averaging 20.5 yards per catch and scoring eight touchdowns last season. With three returning starters on the offensive line and the addition of standout Wes Dorsey from Western Kentucky, UCF’s offense is poised to be a high-octane unit.
Defensively, the Knights have bolstered their lineup with the addition of Ted Roof as the new defensive coordinator. Roof, who served as the coordinator for Auburn’s 2010 national championship team, is known for his aggressive approach, something that excites Malzahn. The defensive front looks strong, anchored by 240-pound defensive end Malachi Lawrence, who recorded 7½ sacks last year, and 320-pound nose guard Lee Hunter, who tallied 11 tackles for losses.
The linebacker corps has been reinforced with transfers Zavier Carter from UNLV, Ethan Barr from Vanderbilt, and Xe’ree Alexander from Idaho. In the secondary, safety Demari Henderson, who earned honorable mention All-Big 12 honors, leads the group alongside Cincinnati transfer Bryon Threats. Returner Brandon Adams and Cincinnati transfer Deshawn Pace top the depth chart at cornerback.
Despite all the excitement surrounding the Knights, Lindy’s Magazine has ranked UCF just ninth in the newly expanded 16-team Big 12, which now includes Arizona State, Arizona, Colorado, and Utah. However, head coach Gus Malzahn isn’t fazed by the low ranking. “I could give a crap,” he said when asked about the prediction. “Our motto is T and T — we want to play tough and together.”
As UCF looks to make its mark in the Big 12, the question remains: where will the Knights finish? With their dynamic roster and renewed energy, they could be the team to watch this season.
