In the celestial clash dubbed the Space Game, the UCF Knights dazzled under the starry canopy of the “Bounce House,” hosting the #15 Oklahoma State Cowboys in a monumental matchup at FBC Mortgage Stadium. Clad in Citronaught gear, UCF orchestrated a spectacle that banished any lingering Canaveral Blues among their fans, securing a historic 45-3 triumph—the biggest blowout of a ranked team in program history.
Defensive Prowess Grounds the Cowboys
In a feat that many considered a moonshot, the Knights’ defense boldly ventured into uncharted territory, thwarting the formidable Ollie Gordon, the nation’s leading rusher, and grounding the Cowboys’ ground game. Gordon, known for his stellar performances in space, was limited to a mere 25 yards on 12 carries, breaking his six-game streak of 100-yard rushing games.
Plumlee’s Stellar Performance
Quarterback John Rhys Rice Plumlee showcased his celestial prowess, orchestrating a stellar performance reminiscent of his return against the Oklahoma Sooners. Completing 11 of 18 passes for 299 yards and three touchdowns, Plumlee orchestrated a symphony of success, strategically protecting himself during pivotal plays. His impressive stats were complemented by a ground game that saw Trey Benson rushing for 206 yards and three touchdowns, surpassing 1,000 yards for the season.
Defensive Brilliance and Weathering the Storm
UCF’s defense shone with three interceptions, forcing Gordon to fumble for only the second time in the season. The Knights’ resilience was evident even in the face of adversity, with a heavy rainstorm in the second quarter. The Cowboys, unprepared for the weather onslaught, struggled with snaps, allowing UCF to outshine them 133-29 in the quarter, extending their lead to 24-0 at halftime.
Historic Win and Gus Malzahn’s Milestone
UCF’s resounding victory over the #15 Oklahoma State marked a historic regular-season triumph, the highest-ranked since 2009. The win also signified Coach Gus Malzahn’s 100th career victory, adding an extra layer of celebration to an already euphoric atmosphere.
Harvey Reaches 1,000 Yard Milestone
RJ Harvey, a standout in the latest UCF triumph, showcased his exceptional talent on the field, leaving an indelible mark on the Knights’ victory. With an impressive 206 rushing yards and three touchdowns in the game, Harvey not only surpassed the 1,000-yard mark for the season but also set a new standard with a 92-yard touchdown run — the second-longest in UCF’s storied history. His consistent excellence, marked by five consecutive games with over 100 rushing yards, reflects the caliber of a player who is becoming a key figure in the resurgence of Knights football. Harvey’s stellar contributions undoubtedly played a vital role in UCF’s historic win, solidifying his status as one of the brightest stars in the Knights’ ongoing journey to success.
What’s Next?
In the annals of UCF football, this victory against a ranked opponent stands as a testament to their rising prominence and a celestial performance that will be etched in the memories of Knight fans. The “Bounce House” truly lived up to its name, bouncing with jubilation as the Knights soared to new heights in the vast expanse of college football glory.
