2011 UCF Knights football team

Last updated

2011 UCF Knights football
UCF Knights logo.svg
Conference Conference USA
DivisionEast
Record5–7 (3–5 C-USA)
Head coach
Offensive coordinator Charlie Taaffe (3rd season)
Defensive coordinator John Skladany (2nd season)
Base defense 4–3
Home stadium Bright House Networks Stadium
Seasons
  2010
2012  
2011 Conference USA football standings
ConfOverall
Team W L  W L 
East Division
No. 20 Southern Miss x$  6 2   12 2  
Marshall  5 3   7 6  
East Carolina  4 4   5 7  
UAB  3 5   3 9  
UCF  3 5   5 7  
Memphis  1 7   2 10  
West Division
No. 18 Houston x  8 0   13 1  
Tulsa  7 1   8 5  
SMU  5 3   8 5  
Rice  3 5   4 8  
UTEP  2 6   5 7  
Tulane  1 7   2 11  
Championship: Southern Miss 49, Houston 28
  • $ Conference champion
  • x Division champion/co-champions
As of January 10, 2012
Rankings from AP Poll

The 2011 UCF Knights football team represented the University of Central Florida in the 2011 NCAA Division I FBS football season. The Knights played in the East Division of Conference USA, and played their home games at Bright House Networks Stadium in Orlando, Florida. The Knights were led by head coach George O'Leary, who was in his eighth season with the team. They finished the season 5–7, 3–5 in C-USA play to finish in a tie for fourth place in the East Division.

Contents

All games were broadcast live on the UCF-ISP Sports radio network. [1] The Knights flagship station was WYGM "740 The Game" in Orlando.

Personnel

Head coach George O'Leary George O'Leary-1.jpg
Head coach George O'Leary
Bright House Networks Stadium Texas at UCF wide view from endzone.jpg
Bright House Networks Stadium

Coaching staff

2011 UCF Knights coaching staff

Head coaches

Offensive coaches

  • Offensive coordinator/quarterbacks – Charlie Taaffe
  • Running backs – Danny Barrett
  • Wide receivers – David Kelly (Resigned mid-season)
  • Offensive line – Brent Key
  • Graduate assistant – Jonathon Ford

Defensive coaches

  • Defensive coordinator – John Skladany
  • Inside linebackers – Al Seamonson
  • Defensive backs – Sean Beckton
  • Defensive line – Jim Panagos
  • Graduate assistant – Mark Cammack
 

Special teams

  • Special teams coordinator/tight ends – Tim Salem

Administrative staff

  • Athletic Director (A.D.) – VADM. Al Harms (Interim)
  • Assistant A.D. for Football Operations – Marty O'Leary
  • Director of player personnel – Albert Boone

Roster

2011 UCF Knights roster
2011 Roster from the University of Central Florida Knights [usurped]

Quarterbacks

Halfbacks

  • 13 Dontravius Floyd – Redshirt.svg Sophomre
  • 40 Brendan Kelly – Redshirt.svg junior
  • 44 Brandon MacMeekin – Redshirt.svg freshman

Fullbacks

  • 32 Billy Giovanetti – Redshirt.svg junior

Running backs

  • 17 Cedric Thompson – freshman
  • 23 Ariel Hoffman – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 28 Latavius Murray Redshirt.svg junior
  • 31 Kerlon Williams – Redshirt.svg senior
  • 34 Brynn Harvey – Redshirt.svg junior
  • 35 Ronnie Weaver – Redshirt.svg senior

Wide receivers

  • 3 A.J. Guyton – Redshirt.svg senior
  • 4 Rob Calabresesenior
  • 7 Jared Greenaway – Redshirt.svg sophomore
  • 9 J.J. Worton – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 14 Quincy McDuffiejunior
  • 29 Andrew Schultz – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 80 Joshua Reese – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 81 Rannell Hallfreshman
  • 82 Khymest Williams – Redshirt.svg senior
  • 87 James Rose – senior
  • 89 Jacques Mackeroy – freshman

Tight ends

  • 39 Kevin Garvy Redshirt.svg Junior
  • 84 Justin Tukes – freshman
  • 85 Kevin Miller – freshman
  • 86 D.J. Brown – Redshirt.svg sophomore
  • 88 Adam Nissley – Redshirt.svg senior
 

Offensive line

  • 61 Tarik Cook – freshman
  • 62 Rey Cunha – Redshirt.svg sophomore
  • 63 Jordan McCray – sophomore
  • 64 Justin McCray – sophomore
  • 65 Cliff McCray – Redshirt.svg senior
  • 66 Colton Odom – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 68 Theo Goins – Redshirt.svg junior
  • 70 Chris Martin – Redshirt.svg sophomore
  • 72 Torrian Wilson – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 73 Jordan Rae – Redshirt.svg junior
  • 74 Brandon Bryant – Redshirt.svg sophomore
  • 77 Nick Pieschel – Redshirt.svg senior
  • 79 Tony Jacob – Redshirt.svg freshman

Defensive ends

  • 53 Darius Nall – Redshirt.svg senior
  • 59 LeBranden Richardson – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 90 Ash Weekley – Redshirt.svg junior
  • 97 Robert Pritchard – Redshirt.svg junior

Defensive tackles

  • 95 E.J. Dunston – sophomore
  • 96 Andrew Rice – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 99 Jose Jose – sophomore

Defensive backs

  • 11 Sean Beckton – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 15 Michael Easton – freshman
  • 18 Kemal Ishmael – junior
  • 19 A. J. Bouyejunior
  • 21 Jordan Ozerities – sophomore
  • 22 Jared Henry – freshman
  • 26 Clayton Geathers – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 28 Connor Price – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 29 Lyle Dankenbring – Redshirt.svg junior
  • 33 Jamar McClain – Redshirt.svg Freshman
  • 36 Woodley Cadet – Redshirt.svg Freshman
  • 37 Brandon Alexander – freshman
  • 38 Bruce Dukes – freshman
  • 39 Brandon Bragg – freshman
 

Defensive line

  • 47 Deion Green – freshman
  • 48 Toby Jackson – junior
  • 49 Cam Henderson – junior
  • 58 Troy Davis – junior
  • 69 Thomas Niles – freshman
  • 88 Troy Stafford – senior
  • 91 Victor Gray – Redshirt.svg sophomore
  • 92 Barry Snider – senior
  • 93 Josh Wofford – Redshirt.svg sophomore
  • 94 Dalton Wertz – freshman
  • 98 Joey Grant – freshman

Linebackers

  • 10 Leilon Willingham – freshman
  • 23 Willie Mitchell – freshman
  • 27 Jonathan Davis – junior
  • 30 Miles Pace – freshman
  • 41 Terrance Plummerfreshman
  • 42 Loren Robinson – Redshirt.svg junior
  • 43 Josh Hood – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 45 Javen Harris – Redshirt.svg sophomore
  • 46 Ray Shipman – Redshirt.svg junior
  • 50 Josh Linam – senior
  • 51 D.J. Williams – Redshirt.svg junior
  • 52 Terran Buck – junior
  • 54 Ray Cottman – junior
  • 55 Vinny Mazzurco – Redshirt.svg senior
  • 56 Cody Ralston – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 57 Troy Gray – freshman

Cornerbacks

  • 20 Josh Robinson – junior

Safeties

  • 25 Jarrett Swaby – Redshirt.svg sophomore
 

Punters/Kickers

  • 6 David Bohner – Redshirt.svg senior
  • 16 Nick Cattoi – senior
  • 18 Rodrigo Quirarte – freshman
  • 43 Jamie Boyle – junior
  • 83 Shawn Moffitt – freshman
  • 87 Sean Galvin – Redshirt.svg freshman

Snappers

  • 56 Scott Teal – Redshirt.svg freshman
  • 59 Matt Morrison – Redshirt.svg sophomore
  • 60 Charley Hughlett – senior

Terms:

  • Freshman – A player in his first year.
  • Sophomore – A player in his second year.
  • Junior – A player in his third year.
  • Senior – A player in his fourth year.
  • Redshirt.svg Redshirt – A player who sat out a previous season.

Recruiting class

US college sports recruiting information for 2011 recruits
NameHometownHigh school / collegeHeightWeight40Commit date
Demetris Anderson
DT
Fort Pierce, FLWestwood6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)285 lb (129 kg)5.28Aug 24, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 76
Brandon Bragg
DB
Orlando, FLUniversity6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)190 lb (86 kg)N/AJun 9, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 2 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 72
Terran Buck
LB
Aurora, ILCollege of DuPage6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)235 lb (107 kg)4.6Jan 17, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A
Tarik Cook
OL
Stone Mountain, GAStephenson6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)294 lb (133 kg)N/AJun 17, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 78
Raymond Cottman
LB
Glendale, AZGlendale C.C.6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)225 lb (102 kg)4.7Nov 15, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 2 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A
Jeremy Davis
DB
New Berlin, NYNew Berlin, NY Milford Academy6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)188 lb (85 kg)N/AJan 30, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 78
Bruce Dukes
DB
Tyrone, GASandy Creek5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)170 lb (77 kg)4.46Jan 24, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 76
Mike Easton
DB
Winter Haven, FLWinter Haven6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)180 lb (82 kg)N/AJun 14, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 45
Joey Grant
DE
Apopka, FLLake Brantley6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)240 lb (110 kg)4.8Jul 8, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 2 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 45
Troy Gray
LB
Kennesaw, GANorth Cobb6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)220 lb (100 kg)4.5Jan 23, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 78
Deion Green
DE
Orlando, FLEdgewater6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)220 lb (100 kg)4.7Aug 9, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 77
Rannell Hall
WR
Miami, FLCarol City6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)175 lb (79 kg)4.5Jan 30, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 2 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 45
Cameron Henderson
DE
Corsicana, TXNavarro J.C.6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)250 lb (110 kg)4.6Dec 21, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A
Jared Henry
DB
Jacksonville, FLFirst Coast6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)190 lb (86 kg)4.6Jan 24, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 78
Kentorius Jackson
DB
Milledgeville, GAGeorgia Military College6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)182 lb (83 kg)N/ADec 13, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A
Toby Jackson
DE
Corsicana, TXNavarro J.C.6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)265 lb (120 kg)4.7Dec 14, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 4 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A
Jose Jose
G
Miami, FLEastern Arizona J.C.6 ft 3 in (1.91 m)330 lb (150 kg)5.63Jan 17, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 75
Jacques Mackeroy
WR
Lakeland, FLKathleen6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)200 lb (91 kg)4.55Jul 19, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 78
Kevin Miller
TE
Delran, NJHoly Cross6 ft 4 in (1.93 m)241 lb (109 kg)4.7Jul 8, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 72
Willie Mitchell
LB
Deltona, FLPine Ridge6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)225 lb (102 kg)N/AMar 26, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 78
Thomas Niles
DT
Gainesville, GAGainesville6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)260 lb (120 kg)4.93Jul 15, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 77
Miles Pace
LB
Miami, FLMiami Central6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)237 lb (108 kg)4.7Jul 25, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 77
Breshad Perriman
WR
Lithonia, GAArabia Mountain6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)180 lb (82 kg)N/AJan 30, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 2 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 70
Terrance Plummer
LB
Orange Park, FLOrange Park6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)221 lb (100 kg)N/AJan 24, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 78
DaMarcus Smith
QB
Louisville, KYSeneca6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)180 lb (82 kg)4.64Feb 4, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 4 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 77
Cedric Thompson
RB
Miramar, FLEverglades6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)200 lb (91 kg)N/AJun 29, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 2 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 73
Justin Tukes
TE
Sylvester, GAWorth County6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)230 lb (100 kg)4.72Oct 25, 2009 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 45
Dalton Wertz
DT
Arcadia, FLDe Soto6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)285 lb (129 kg)N/AJun 21, 2010 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 2 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 75
Rayshon Williams
WR
Denver, COMullen6 ft 1 in (1.85 m)190 lb (86 kg)4.5Feb 3, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 2 stars.svg     Rivals: 3 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 78
Leilon Willingham
LB
Denver, COMullen6 ft 2 in (1.88 m)240 lb (110 kg)4.6Feb 3, 2011 
Recruiting star ratings: Scout: 3 stars.svg     Rivals: 4 stars.svg     247Sports: N/A   ESPN grade: 78
Overall recruiting rankings: Scout: 57   Rivals: 39
  • ‡ Refers to 40 yard dash
  • Note: In many cases, Scout, Rivals, 247Sports, and ESPN may conflict in their listings of height, weight and 40 time.
  • In these cases, the average was taken. ESPN grades are on a 100-point scale.

Sources:

  • "UCF 2011 Football Commitments". Rivals.com. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  • "2011 UCF Football Commits". Scout.com. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  • "ESPN". ESPN.com. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  • "Scout.com Team Recruiting Rankings". Scout.com. Retrieved June 7, 2011.
  • "2011 Team Ranking". Rivals.com. Retrieved June 7, 2011.

Schedule

Bright House Networks Stadium, the Knights home field. Bright House exterior on opening day.jpg
Bright House Networks Stadium, the Knights home field.
DateTimeOpponentSiteTVResultAttendance
September 37:00 pm Charleston Southern (FCS)* BHSN W 62–039,752 [2]
September 108:00 pm Boston College *
  • Bright House Networks Stadium
  • Orlando, FL
CBSSN W 30–345,671 [3]
September 176:00 pmat FIU * ESPN3 L 10–1720,205 [4]
September 238:00 pmat BYU * ESPN L 17–2459,874 [5]
October 87:00 pm Marshall
  • Bright House Networks Stadium
  • Orlando, FL
BHSNW 16–624,750 [6]
October 153:30 pmat SMU FSN L 17–3822,932 [7]
October 208:00 pmat UAB CSS L 24–268,872 [8]
October 294:00 pm Memphis Dagger-14-plain.png
  • Bright House Networks Stadium
  • Orlando, FL
BHSNW 41–037,683 [9]
November 38:00 pm Tulsa
  • Bright House Networks Stadium
  • Orlando, FL
CBSSNL 17–2436,712 [10]
November 128:00 pmat No. 25 Southern Miss CBSSNL 29–3032,925 [11]
November 197:00 pmat East Carolina FSNL 31–3850,277 [12]
November 257:00 pm UTEP
  • Bright House Networks Stadium
  • Orlando, FL
CBSSNW 31–1421,127 [13]
  • *Non-conference game
  • Dagger-14-plain.pngHomecoming
  • Rankings from AP Poll released prior to the game
  • All times are in Eastern time

Game summaries

Charleston Southern

1234Total
Buccaneers00000
Knights1421141362
  • Location: Orlando, FL
  • Game start: 7:04 pm
  • Elapsed time: 2:46
  • Game attendance: 39,752
  • Game weather: 84 °F (29 °C), partly cloudy
  • Referee: Steve LaMantia

2011 marked the fourth straight year that UCF opened the season against an FCS opponent, and the sixth straight opening win for the Knights.

The offense, led by sophomore quarterback Jeff Godfrey, got out to fast start against the Buccaneers, scoring on their first five possessions, including a 7-yard touchdown run by Godfrey 2:31 into the game. From there the Knights never surrendered the lead, only turning the ball over once on a fumble by Josh Robinson during a punt return. Godfrey rushed 46 yards for three touchdowns, and went 6-for-10 for 100-yards. Back-up quarterback Blake Bortles went 8-for-10 for 144 yards. Ronnie Weaver rushed for 107 yards on 8 carries for one touchdown, and Joshua Reese caught 4 passes for 97 yards.

UCF set a program record with eight rushing touchdowns, while the Knights had 560 yards of total offense, 244 by air and 316 rushing. The 62–0 score marked the second-largest shutout in school history and the third-most total points since UCF joined the FBS in 1996. The game also marked the Knights' first shutout since a 49–0 game against Tulane in 2009.

Boston College

1234Total
Eagles30003
Knights3602130
  • Location: Orlando, FL
  • Game start: 8:04 pm
  • Elapsed time: 2:54
  • Game attendance: 45,671
  • Game weather: 81 °F (27 °C), cloudy
  • Referee: Brad Allen

The victory marks UCF's first ever home win against a BCS Automatic-Qualifying opponent, and only their fourth win over an AQ team in program history. The game marked the second meeting between the two schools, with the Eagles winning the first contest 7–34 in 2008.

The Knights defense held strong, only allowing a field goal to the Eagles on their first drive with 7:52 left in the first quarter. From that point on, UCF held the game firmly in its grasp, scoring three field goals and three touchdowns. Jeff Godfrey went 20-for-25 for 187-yards, and rushed for 69 yards for two touchdowns. Latavius Murray rushed for 72 yards on 10 carries for one touchdown, and A.J. Guyton caught 5 passes for 45 yards. The Knights caught two interceptions thrown by the Eagles in the fourth quarter, both resulting in a touchdown. UCF had 422 total yards of offense, with 235-yards rushing and 187-yards passing.

Dating back to last year, UCF has won six-straight games and 11 of its last 12, and hasn't allowed a touchdown in 12–straight quarters. With the win, the Knights move to 2–0 for the first time since 1998.

FIU

1234Total
Knights070310
Golden Panthers0710017
  • Location: Miami, FL
  • Game start: 6:03 pm
  • Elapsed time: 3:05
  • Game attendance: 20,205
  • Game weather: 85 °F (29 °C), Partly Cloudy
  • Referee: Tony Backert

This game marked the first meeting between the two programs, and the first of a four-game series. The loss was UCF's first in seven games, and snapped the Knights' defensive record of 14 straight quarters without allowing a touchdown. UCF turned the ball over twice, on a fumble by Jeff Godfrey and muffed punt by Josh Robinson, with both turnovers resulting in touchdowns by the Golden Panthers.

Jeff Godfrey went 17-for-27 for 181-yards, and rushed for 65-yards for a touchdown. All three of the Knights running backs saw play, with Ronnie Weaver rushing for 34-yards on 9 carries, Brynn Harvey rushing for 31-yards on 6 carries and Latavius Murray rushing for 13-yards on 6 carries. Quincy McDuffie caught 6 passes for 70-yards, and Adam Nissley hauled in 4 passes for 53-yards. Nick Cattoi was one-for-two kicking, making a 31-yard field goal but missing a 51-yard attempt.

The Knights outgained FIU 266-yards to 204, but were flagged for nine penalties for 56-yards. After allowing just one sack in their first two games, UCF surrendered six against the Golden Panthers. The highlight of the night for UCF was an 18-play, 94-yard, 10-minute possession that led to the Knights only touchdown of the game in the second quarter.

BYU

1234Total
Knights1007017
Cougars3014724
  • Location: Provo, UT
  • Game start: 6:06 pm
  • Elapsed time: 3:10
  • Game attendance: 59,874
  • Game weather: 81 °F (27 °C), Sunny
  • Referee: Wayne Winkler

This matchup marked the first game between the two programs, with BYU making a return trip to Orlando in 2014. For the second straight game UCF lost the turnover battle, turning the ball over three times, on a fumble by Dontravius Floyd, a muffed punt by J.J. Worton and an interception, with two turnovers resulting in touchdowns by the Cougars.

Jeff Godfrey went 17-for-25 for 272-yards, his third career 200-yard game, and rushed for two touchdowns. Ronnie Weaver rushed for 38 yards on 7 carries and Latavius Murray rushing for 31-yards on 12 carries. AJ Guyton was the big playmaker of the night for UCF, with 9 receptions for 163-yards, while Quincy McDuffie caught 5 passes for 50-yards. The Knights special teams woes continued, as Nick Cattoi was one-for-two kicking, making a 34-yard field goal but missing a 35-yard attempt, and as UCF allowed BYU's first kickoff return for a touchdown since 1998.

The Knights outgained BYU 399-yards to 260, but were inefficient on the ground with 34 carries resulting in only 81 yards. UCF suffered a scare in the second half when sophomore Jeff Godfrey went down with an apparent injury. Back-up quarterback Blake Bortles entered the game, resurrecting a drive deep in Knights territory and going 4-for-5 for 46-yards. The loss snapped a 5-game winning streak by UCF on ESPN, and marked the first time since 2008 that the Knights dropped two games in a row.

Marshall

1234Total
Thundering Herd00606
Knights1420016
  • Location: Orlando, FL
  • Game start: 7:04 pm
  • Elapsed time: 2:47
  • Game attendance: 24,750
  • Game weather: 68 °F (20 °C), Rain
  • Referee: Steve Barth

UCF has now won 7-straight games against the Thundering Herd, never losing to them since both teams entered Conference USA in 2005. In a game that was marred by rain, the Knights possessed the ball for over 40 minutes while the Thundering Herd held the ball for under 20. Jeff Godfrey rushed for 15 yards, and went 13-for-22 for 147 yards. Brynn Harvey rushed for 180-yards on 30 carries for one touchdown, and Joshua Reese caught 4 passes for 42-yards.

UCF's defense continues to shine, allowing only 130-yards and no offensive scores. The Knights are the only team in the country that has not allowed a passing touchdown this season. UCF also earned its first safety since an October 2008 game against Tulsa.

The win marked George O'Leary's 100th career victory. Since joining C-USA, UCF is 4–3 in conference openers, opening the season with wins in 2005, 2007 and 2010, all years the Knights went on to play in the conference championship game.

SMU

1234Total
Knights0301417
Mustangs10771438
  • Location: Dallas, TX
  • Game start: 3:40 pm
  • Elapsed time: 3:12
  • Game attendance: 22,932
  • Game weather: 85 °F (29 °C), Sunny
  • Referee: Jerry Banks

In a game that was a rematch of the 2010 Conference USA Championship Game, the Mustangs dominated the Knights both offensively and defensively. SMU proved difficult to stop in the air, with UCF allowing 358 passing yards, and 440-yards of total offense.

The Knights dominated the time of possession, with over 37 minutes, but only scored 3 times. Jeff Godfrey went 23-for-32 for 231-yards for a touchdown, and rushed for 46-yards on 12 carries. Brynn Harvey rushed for 66-yards on 21 carries, and Joshua Reese caught 5 passes for 74-yards. Back-up quarterback Blake Bortles entered the game for the Knights in the 4th quarter, leading the team on a quick scoring drive and going 9-for-12 for 118-yards and a touchdown.

UAB

1234Total
Knights14001024
Blazers7901026
  • Location: Birmingham, AL
  • Game start: 7:00 pm
  • Elapsed time: 3:04
  • Game attendance: 8,872
  • Game weather: 56 °F (13 °C), Clear
  • Referee: Randy Smith

UCF suffered another devastating loss against an 0–6 Blazers team in Birmingham. The Knights woes continued on both the offensive and defensive fronts, as UCF lost the battle for the time of possession for the first time this season, and allowed UAB 501 yards and 27 first downs. The Knights scored early but surrendered the lead before halftime. Back-up quarterback Blake Bortles entered the game for the Knights in the 4th quarter, leading the team on a 10–0 run. With 21 seconds left, UAB kicker Ty Long struck a 40-yard field goal giving the Blazers a 26–24 lead, and sealing their first win of the season.

Godfrey went 13-for-22 for 133-yards and Blake Bortles went 6-for-10 for 102-yards. Brynn Harvery rushed for 74-yards on 17 carries for two touchdowns. Joshua Reese was the big playmaker of the night for UCF, with 4 receptions for 41-yards, while Quincy McDuffie caught 2 passes for 39-yards. Running back Ronnie Weaver also had one 53-yard reception. After the game, debate arose once again over the fate of the Knight's starting quarterback job.

Memphis

1234Total
Tigers00000
Knights147101041
  • Location: Orlando, FL
  • Game start: 4:04 pm
  • Elapsed time: 3:04
  • Game attendance: 37,683
  • Game weather: 73 °F (23 °C), Cloudy
  • Referee: Steve LaMantia

After losing four of their last five, the Knights proved victorious on homecoming. UCF is now 22–10 all time on Homecoming weekend and 23–8 (16–4) at home. This was the Knights third straight homecoming win, dating back to a 2009 rout of the then-ranked No. 12 Houston Cougars.

Jeff Godfrey went 14-for-17 for 200-yards for one touchdown. Godfrey also rushed 97-yards on 10 carries for a touchdown. Brynn Harvey rushed for 78 yards on 17 carries and Ronnie Weaver ran for 41-yards on 10 carries, both for a touchdown. Joshua Reese had 4 receptions for 70-yards, while Quincy McDuffie caught 3 passes for 49-yards and rushed for 29-yards, getting his first career rushing touchdown.

UCF dominated the Tigers on both sides of the ball, firmly controlling the clock, gaining 505-yards on 40 minutes of possession, and only allowing Memphis 134-yards. UCF ranks second in the country behind Texas, averaging 34:51 in time of possession. Twice this season the Knights have held the ball for over 40 minutes, against Marshall (40:14) and Memphis (40:03). The Knights lead Conference USA in total defense, and the Knights ranks in the top-10 nationally in rushing, passing, passing efficiency, total and scoring defense.

Tulsa

1234Total
Golden Hurricane763824
Knights770317
  • Location: Orlando, FL
  • Game start: 8:04 pm
  • Elapsed time: 3:07
  • Game attendance: 36,712
  • Game weather: 71 °F (22 °C), clear
  • Referee: Wayne Winkler

UCF's defense continued to struggle, allowing Tulsa 251 rushing yards, after averaging only 84.5 yards allowed during the previous eight games. The Golden Hurricane also scored the first offensive touchdown against the Knights at home since December 4, 2010, a full 334 days.

Jeff Godfrey went 16-for-23 for 226 yards, his fifth career 200-yard game, for one touchdown. Godfrey also rushed 46 yards on 14 carries. Brynn Harvey rushed for 26 yards on 7 carries and Ronnie Weaver had 9 carries for 36 yards for a touchdown. The Knights had two big receivers for the night: J. J. Worton had 4 receptions for 87 yards, while Quincy McDuffie caught 4 passes for 81 yards. Rannell Hall returned five kicks for 148 yards, and Shawn Moffit was 1-for-2 on field goals, making a 29-yard kick in the fourth quarter.

With the loss, the fifth of the season for the Knights, UCF no longer controlled its own destiny in conference play, matched its loss total from 2009, and had to win two of its last three games to become bowl-eligible for the third-straight year.

Southern Miss

1234Total
Knights3332029
#23 Golden Eagles7631430
  • Location: Hattiesburg, MS
  • Game start: 8:02 pm
  • Elapsed time: 3:42
  • Game attendance: 32,925
  • Game weather: 68 °F (20 °C), clear
  • Referee: Steve Barth

The Knights woes continued as they dropped their second straight match. UCF trailed by seven entering the fourth quarter, when back-up quarterback Blake Bortles entered the game for the Knights, leading the team on a 14-point scoring run. As time expired, Bortles threw a 25-yard touchdown pass to freshman wideout J.J. Worton. With the Knights down one, the team decided to go for the win with a two-point conversion but fell short.

Godfrey went 7-for-10 for 68-yards and Blake Bortles went 24-for-34 for 248 yards. Latavius Murray rushed for 19 yards on 4 carries and Ronnie Weaver had 11 carries for 12 yards. J.J. Worton was the big playmaker of the night for UCF, with 11 receptions for 114 yards, while A.J. Guyton caught 4 passes for 58 yards. After the Knights failed two-point conversion, debate arose again over the fate of the Knight's starting quarterback job and head coach George O'Leary.

East Carolina

1234Total
Knights7107731
Pirates10771438
  • Location: Greenville, NC
  • Game start: 7:10 pm
  • Elapsed time: 3:27
  • Game attendance: 50,277
  • Game weather: 59 °F (15 °C), mostly clear
  • Referee: Randy Smith

In a devastating loss that ended the Knights quest for a bowl game, East Carolina out-passed, out-rushed and most importantly out-scored the Knights.

Jeff Godfrey went 9-for-13 for 100 yards and a touchdown. Godfrey also rushed 17-yards on 14 carries. Blake Bortles was 9-for-17 for 98 yards for two touchdowns. Latavius Murray rushed for one touchdown and finished the game with 87 yards on 21 carries. The Knights had two big receivers for the night, Quincy McDuffie had 9 receptions for 93 yards, while Joshua Reese caught 4 passes for 51 yards. Rannell Hall returned five kicks for 184 yards, J.J. Worton had one kickoff return for 37 yards and Nick Cattoi was 1-for-2 on field goals, making a 39-yard kick in the second quarter.

UTEP

1234Total
Miners0001414
Knights7177031
  • Location: Orlando, FL
  • Game start: 7:03 pm
  • Elapsed time: 3:08
  • Game attendance: 21,127
  • Game weather: 68 °F (20 °C), mostly cloudy
  • Referee: Ed Ardito

In the Knights season finale, the team amassed 406 yards of total offense, 211 in the air and 249 on the ground. Even though UCF's second-year starter Jeff Godfrey began the game, second-string quarterback Blake Bortles entered the game early and remained the Knights' signal caller until the end of the contest. This would mark Godfrey's last game with the Knights, as he announced he would transfer following the season.

In his short playing time, Godfrey went 5-for-6 for 53-yards and Blake Bortles went 9-for-12 for 158-yards. Bortles also rushed for 16-yards on 7 attempts. Latavius Murray rushed for 233 yards on 21 carries for two touchdowns. The Knights receiving core was active, with five different receivers getting over 20-yards. J.J. Worton had 48 yards, Joshua Reese had 43, A.J. Guyton finished the game with 29, running back Ronnie Weaver had 25 receiving yards and Latavius Murray had 2 receptions for 24 yards.

Related Research Articles

Charlie Taaffe was an American gridiron football coach who was the head football coach at The Citadel from 1987 to 1996. He is the winningest head coach in the school's history. He was also the head coach of the Canadian Football League's Montreal Alouettes and Hamilton Tiger-Cats.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2007 UCF Knights football team</span> American college football season

The 2007 UCF Knights football team represented the University of Central Florida in the 2007 NCAA Division I FBS football season. Their head coach was George O'Leary, in his fourth season with the school. The season was highlighted by the completion of their new on-campus stadium. The Knights moved out of the aging Citrus Bowl in downtown Orlando, and began playing their home games at Bright House Networks Stadium, located on the main campus of UCF in east Orlando, Florida. In addition, the team changed its nickname from "Golden Knights" back to simply "Knights." From its inception in 1979 to 1992, the football team had been known as the Knights, then used the name "Golden Knights" from 1993 until 2006.

The 2005 Sheraton Hawaii Bowl matched the UCF Golden Knights against the Nevada Wolf Pack. The fourth edition of the Hawaii Bowl was held in Halawa, Hawaii and featured WAC champions Nevada versus Conference USA runner–up UCF. The game was sponsored by Sheraton Hotels and Resorts and was played on Christmas Eve.

The 2010 UCF Knights football team represented the University of Central Florida in the 2010 NCAA Division I FBS football season. Their head coach was George O'Leary, who was in his seventh season with the team. For the first time in program history, the Knights were nationally ranked following a nationally televised rout of Houston on November 5. For the third time in six years, UCF won the Conference USA Eastern Division and later, became Conference USA champions for the second time in four seasons. As a result, the Knights appeared in the Liberty Bowl, in which they defeated Georgia 10–6, for the first bowl victory in program history. UCF finished the season ranked in both final national polls, 20th in the Coaches Poll, and 21st in the AP Poll.

The 2010 Liberty Bowl was a college football postseason bowl game played at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium in Memphis, Tennessee, on December 31, 2010. The 52nd edition of the Liberty Bowl matched up the Georgia Bulldogs of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) against the UCF Knights, the Conference USA champions. With sponsorship from AutoZone, the game was officially the AutoZone Liberty Bowl. The game was won by UCF, 10–6.

Jeffrey Godfrey IV is a former American football Slotback. Godfrey played for the University of Central Florida Knights. He led the Knights to the Conference USA Championship in his freshman year (2010), becoming the first true freshman quarterback to win an FBS conference championship game.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2011 Marshall Thundering Herd football team</span> American college football season

The 2011 Marshall Thundering Herd football team represented Marshall University in the 2011 NCAA Division I FBS football season. The Thundering Herd were led by second-year head coach Doc Holliday and played their home games at Joan C. Edwards Stadium. They are a member of the East Division of Conference USA. They finished the season 7–6, 5–3 in C-USA to finish in second place in the East Division. They were invited to the Beef 'O' Brady's Bowl where they defeated FIU 20–10.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">1998 UCF Golden Knights football team</span> American college football season

The 1998 UCF Golden Knights football season was the twentieth season overall for the team, and third season as an NCAA Division I-A Independent. After the resignation of Gene McDowell, Mike Kruczek became the new head coach of the Golden Knights. Kruczek led UCF to a 9–2 record in 1998, the program's best season at the time. Quarterback Daunte Culpepper finished 6th in the Heisman Trophy voting and set a then-NCAA record for completion percentage (73.4%). UCF received a tentative verbal agreement to play in the Oahu Bowl. However, the arrangement fell through in the final week of the season.

The 2013 UCF Knights football team represented the University of Central Florida in the 2013 NCAA Division I FBS football season. The Knights were members of the American Athletic Conference, and played their home games at Bright House Networks Stadium on UCF's main campus in Orlando, Florida. The Knights were led by head coach George O'Leary, who was in his tenth season with the team.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Latavius Murray</span> American football player (born 1990)

Latavius Rashard Murray is an American football running back who is a free agent. He played college football at UCF and was drafted by the Oakland Raiders in the sixth round of the 2013 NFL draft, with whom he would earn Pro Bowl honors in 2015. He was also a member of the Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, Baltimore Ravens, Denver Broncos, and Buffalo Bills.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">Blake Bortles</span> American football player (born 1992)

Robby Blake Bortles is an American former football quarterback who played in the National Football League (NFL) for eight seasons, primarily with the Jacksonville Jaguars. He played college football for the UCF Knights, where he received AAC Offensive Player of the Year honors as a junior and was MVP of the 2014 Fiesta Bowl. Bortles was selected by the Jaguars third overall in the 2014 NFL draft.

The 2014 Fiesta Bowl was a college football bowl game that was played on Wednesday, January 1, 2014, at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. In this, the 43rd annual Fiesta Bowl, the Baylor Bears, champions of the Big 12 Conference, played the UCF Knights, champions of the American Athletic Conference. The game was broadcast live on ESPN at 6:30 PM MST. It was one of the 2013–14 bowl games that concluded the 2013 FBS football season. It was sponsored by the Tostitos snack food brand and was officially known as the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl.

The 2014 UCF Knights football team represented the University of Central Florida in the 2014 NCAA Division I FBS football season. The Knights were members of the American Athletic Conference, and played their home games at Bright House Networks Stadium on UCF's main campus in Orlando, Florida. The Knights were led by head coach George O'Leary, who was in his eleventh season with the team.

Storm Johnson is a former American football running back. He was selected by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the seventh round of the 2014 NFL Draft. He played college football at UCF.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">South Florida–UCF football rivalry</span>

The South Florida–UCF football rivalry, better known as the War on I-4, is an American college football rivalry between the South Florida Bulls football team of the University of South Florida and UCF Knights football team of the University of Central Florida. As of the 2022 meeting, the Knights hold a 8–6 lead in the series.

The National Football League playoffs for the 2017 season began with the wild-card round on January 6, 2018, and concluded with Super Bowl LII on February 4, 2018, when the Philadelphia Eagles defeated the New England Patriots at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2018 UCF Knights football team</span> American college football season

The 2018 UCF Knights football team represented the University of Central Florida (UCF) during the 2018 NCAA Division I FBS football season. They played their home games at Spectrum Stadium in Orlando, Florida, and were led by first-year head coach Josh Heupel. The Knights competed as members of the East Division of the American Athletic Conference. The 2018 season marked the 40th season of football for the Knights program.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2020 UCF Knights football team</span> American college football season

The 2020 UCF Knights football team represented the University of Central Florida (UCF) during the 2020 NCAA Division I FBS football season. The Knights were led by third-year head coach Josh Heupel and played their home games at Bounce House in Orlando, Florida. They competed as members of the American Athletic Conference. The Knights finished the regular season 6–4 and notably did not have any games of their revised schedule postponed or canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2021 UCF Knights football team</span> American college football season

The 2021 UCF Knights football team represented the University of Central Florida (UCF) during the 2021 NCAA Division I FBS football season. The Knights were led by first-year head coach Gus Malzahn and played their home games at Bounce House in Orlando, Florida. They competed as members of the American Athletic Conference.

<span class="mw-page-title-main">2022 UCF Knights football team</span> American college football season

The 2022 UCF Knights football team represented the University of Central Florida (UCF) during the 2022 NCAA Division I FBS football season. The Knights were led by second-year head coach Gus Malzahn and played their home games at the newly named FBC Mortgage Stadium in Orlando, Florida. They competed as members of the American Athletic Conference.

References