UCFORLANDO, Fla. (AP) — 2025 record: 5-7ExpectationsIn the first season of his second stint as the Knights’ head coach, Scott Frost cobbled together a roster through the transfer portal, welcoming more than 60 transfers. A lot of the work last season involved establishing familiarity with a new roster and coaching staff while laying the foundation for the team’s identity and culture.After falling just short of bowl eligibility, UCF’s expectation is to continue building that foundation and reach a bowl game in their fourth season in the Big 12.The Knights entered last season with a three-way battle for starting quarterback, with Tayven Jackson earning the job. This season, UCF’s prized incoming transfer is James Madison playoff standout Alonza Barnett. The dual-threat veteran could potentially elevate the Knights, copying Frost’s early success when he led UCF to a 13-0 record in 2017.
Strengths include the linebackersFrost’s UCF teams have always been known for their fast-paced offense and speed, but the strength last year turned out to be the Knights’ defense.UCF ranked fourth in the Big 12 last year in total defense, giving up 335.8 yards per game thanks in part to the play of defensive end Malachi Lawrence, who was selected in the first round of the NFL draft by Dallas.
