In a game UCF was not expected to be competitive, the Knights got embarrassed by the Texas Tech Red Raiders 48-9. It’s time for some Knee-Jerk Reactions.
Completely Overmatched
UCF’s offense was completely overmatched. With multiple starters out, the Knights’ offense was shorthanded. Quarterback Tayven Jackson got the start and did not amount to much. He was quickly replaced by Davi Belfort, who also did not amount to much. It became apparent that head coach Scott Frost was going to use the two QBs interchangeably. As they say, when you have two quarterbacks, you really have none. With Belfort being a one-dimensional quarterback, the Texas Tech defense keyed in on the run anytime he was on the field. The passing game was reduced mainly to quick dinks and dunks, as the Texas Tech defensive front significantly outmatched the offensive line.
In the second half, the offense showed a sign of life. Jackson was able to find a big pass play to Waden Charles to set up the team’s only touchdown. Jackson was able to find and hit his receivers, finishing 27 of 33 for 178 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Unfortunately, there were a couple of bad drops. Belfort was not a factor in the second half.
With running back Myles Montgomery out, Jaden Nixon comes into the game as the only scholarship running back available. This greatly limited what the running game could look like. Ageyman Addae gave the team something to be excited about when he ripped open a 20-yard run in the fourth quarter.
It is worth noting that UCF outgained Texas Tech 160 to 147 in the second half. Jackson was nearly perfect, going 14 of 16 for 120 yards and a touchdown. Comparatively, the two Red Raider quarterbacks went a combined 8 for 12 for 60 yards.
Defense: Hold My Beer
Not to be outdone by the offense being outmatched, the defense got torched. The game kicked off with Texas Tech victimizing Demari Henderson. He was only the first, as others, including Jyaire Brown, became victims of Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton. Backup quarterback Mitch Griffis also got in on the action and was able to move the ball downfield.
UCF’s defense had opportunities to make some big plays, but failed to capitalize. Linebacker Lewis Carter had a big dropped interception, which would have given the Knights the ball inside the red zone. The defense was able to record a safety in the first half as a result of a great punt by Anthony Venneri, followed by a holding penalty on Texas Tech in the endzone.
What Now?
At 4-6, UCF has no margin for error for a bowl game. The loss to Houston last week dealt a significant blow to UCF’s chances of making the postseason. Next week, the Knights host Oklahoma State, which has had a nightmarish season. This is the easier of the two games, but the Knights’ lack of depth is making things more difficult. The following week is the season finale at BYU. This will be a difficult game. Aside from BYU being a good team in CFP contention, the weather could potentially be a problem too since it’s taking place in Provo, Utah in late November.
Uniform Review
UCF opted for its gold/white/white combination. It’s a simple road uniform. I wouldn’t say UCF mailed it in, but they didn’t do anything special for this game. The game is on FOX, which puts the Knights on display. They could have gone with something a bit more creative.
Stat Leaders:
Passing:
UCF: Tayven Jackson: 27/33 for 178 yards, 1 TD, 1 Int
Houston: Behren Morton: 14/20 for 149 yards, 1 TD, 0 Int
Rushing:
UCF: Jaden Nixon: 15 carries for 32 yards, 0 TD
Texas Tech: Cameron Dickey: 11 carries for 77 yards, 2 TD
Receiving:
UCF: Dylan Wade: 6 catches for 45 yards, 1 TD
Texas Tech: Caleb Douglas: 5 catches for 90 yards, 0 TD
Game Notes:
- Texas Tech leads the series 2-0.
- Sorry, it’s not my best, but I was hoping to see some flying tortillas. I got blinded by red smoke instead.
