UPDATE: The UCF Knights are set to face off against the Oklahoma State Cowboys today at 4 p.m. ET at the Acrisure Bounce House Stadium. With the stakes high for both teams, this matchup promises to be crucial for their seasons.
UCF, currently with a record of 4-6 and 1-6 in the Big 12, is looking to rebound from a dismal performance last week, suffering a devastating 48-9 loss to Texas Tech. The Knights managed to record their first down only in the second quarter and finished with less than 300 yards of offense, marking their third consecutive game underperforming. Meanwhile, Oklahoma State stands at 1-9 overall and 0-7 in the Big 12, having lost nine straight games across all competitions.
This game marks the second meeting between these two teams, following UCF’s dominant 45-3 victory over Oklahoma State in 2023, where running back RJ Harvey shined with 206 rushing yards and three touchdowns. UCF is currently favored by 14.5 points in this showdown, adding pressure on the Cowboys, who are facing the fifth-longest losing streak in Big 12 history.
The Cowboys are struggling, with Zane Flores throwing for 233 yards in last week’s loss to Kansas State, yet turning the ball over four times. Oklahoma State has not won on the road in their last nine games, the longest active streak in the Big 12, which adds to the urgency for a turnaround.
As both teams prepare to take the field, here are three key elements to watch:
1. **Defensive Adjustments**: Oklahoma State’s defense has shown some improvement under interim coordinator Clint Bowen, reducing points allowed from 35 to 26 in recent games. Will this trend continue against UCF?
2. **UCF’s Kicking Star**: Kicker Noe Ruelas is among 20 semifinalists for the Lou Groza Award, boasting an impressive 87.5% success rate on field goals this season. His performance could be pivotal in close situations.
3. **Fast Starts**: The Knights have struggled to score on their first possession since mid-October. A quick start against a reeling Oklahoma State could set the tone for a commanding performance.
Stay tuned as both teams gear up for what could be a defining game for their seasons. Fans can catch the action live on ESPN+ as UCF aims to break their recent slump and Oklahoma State desperately seeks a much-needed victory.
For ongoing updates and analysis, follow me on X, Bluesky, or Instagram @osmattmurschel. To stay informed, sign up for the Sentinel’s Knights Weekly newsletter for comprehensive coverage of UCF football.
