UCF’s Big 12 struggles continued Saturday as the Knights fell 27-20 to Kansas, marking their second straight loss and fifth consecutive conference defeat. The setback came despite a fast start and standout performances from running back Myles Montgomery and a young group of receivers.
The Knights (3-2, 0-2 Big 12) opened strong behind Montgomery, who rushed for 96 yards and two touchdowns in the first quarter. UCF’s defense held Kansas scoreless early, continuing a season-long trend of first-quarter dominance — five straight games without allowing a point in the opening frame. But after building a 20-7 lead, the Knights’ offense sputtered, managing just -1 total yards on 12 plays in the second half.
Momentum shifted in the third quarter when quarterback Tayven Jackson exited with an apparent arm injury. Jackson left the field grimacing and later returned to the sideline in a sling. Backup Cam Fancher, who’s been limited this season by a back injury, stepped in but struggled to regain rhythm as Kansas capitalized.
“We’re awfully close to where we need to be to win some of these games,” said head coach Scott Frost. “We just have to be much better in all phases and be more consistent.”
Injuries Mounting for the Knights
The loss of Jackson wasn’t the only blow. UCF’s defense took another hit with the announcement that redshirt junior defensive tackle Horace Lockett will miss the remainder of the season following pectoral surgery. The 6-foot-6, 355-pound lineman had been one of the team’s most disruptive forces up front. His absence was noticeable as Kansas found success running between the tackles in the second half.
Young Talent Shines Despite Adversity
With several starters sidelined, the coaching staff gave more reps to younger receivers — Waden Charles, Chris Domercant, and Carl Jenkins Jr. Each made key catches, showing flashes of potential and a deeper glimpse into the Knights’ future.
“The young guys have earned the opportunity,” Frost said earlier in the week. “We’ve got to build depth and let them grow through these moments.”
Penalties and Missed Opportunities
Despite the promising start, penalties once again derailed the Knights’ chances late. UCF was flagged six times for 45 yards, with several coming during key drives in the fourth quarter. The offense failed to convert a crucial fourth-and-one, sealing Kansas’ comeback victory.
The Knights finished with just 14 rushing yards after the first quarter and 199 total yards on the ground — their lowest output since joining the Big 12.
Looking Ahead
As UCF prepares to travel to Cincinnati for a noon matchup on FS1, major questions remain at quarterback. Jackson’s injury status is still uncertain, and Fancher may be called upon to lead the offense once again.
The Knights will look to regroup, eliminate mistakes, and find a way to close out games that have repeatedly slipped away. “This team is good enough to win,” Frost emphasized. “We’ve just got to put it all together.”
