The Coach Frost streak is over in a game were the noble Knights were finished by the Kansas Wildcats 34-20.
UCF quarterback Tayven Jackson made a remarkable return to the field in the second half against Kansas State on Saturday, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the host Wildcats. Jackson left the game in the first half with a left arm injury and returned in the third quarter.
Unfortunately, the Knights (3-1, 0-1 Big 12) fell to Kansas State (2-3, 1-1 Big 12) 34-20, marking their first loss of the season and extending their losing streak in Big 12 play to four games. Since joining the conference in 2023, UCF has a 5-12 (29%) record in conference games and a 2-8 (20%) record on the road.
The Wildcats, who were coming off an open week, dominated on the ground with a season-high 255 rushing yards. UCF’s defense struggled to contain running back Dylan Edwards and quarterback Avery Johnson, who sparked the Kansas State offense. The Wildcats entered the game ranked last in the Big 12 in rushing, averaging only 108 yards per game.
Jackson started the game 5 of 9 for 18 yards before landing awkwardly on his left arm in the second quarter. He briefly returned to the game before going to the locker room and ultimately returning to the sidelines in street clothes with his arm in a sling.
Freshman quarterback Jacurri Brown stepped in for Jackson, but his pass on a crucial 3rd and 8 was intercepted by Kansas State’s Gunner Maldonado, leading to a Wildcats touchdown. Brown bounced back, connecting with DJ Black for an 82-yard touchdown, the longest reception for the Knights since 2001.
Kansas State added another score before halftime, and the Wildcats would go on to score twice more in the second half. But Jackson’s return in the third quarter sparked a brief comeback for UCF, as he went 3 for 6 with 52 passing yards and helped lead the team to a field goal.
Despite his efforts, the Knights were unable to overcome the deficit, finishing with just 402 yards of offense. Running back Myles Montgomery had a career-high 118 yards, but it was not enough to secure the win.
Next game is against Kansas at the Bounce House in Orlando, FL. Currently we have UCF as a 3 point favorite against the Jayhawks, stay tuned for more odds on the game this upcoming week.
