Rest in Peace: Ereck Plancher
Tuesday, March 18, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Vote for Knightro
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You can vote once per day. Winner is on the cover for the game!
Friday, January 18, 2008
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Next UCF hoops game 1/23- Be there!
Looking for UCF shirts?
There is a new online store that just opened up:
Click on the pic to check out there store.
There is also:
Click on the logo to check out the site.
Amazing the UCF Merchandise that is starting to show up. Best of luck to them.
Miss football season: Check out 2007 Highlights
I have been missing football so found some UCF hightlights on YouTube Enjoy!
Great job cw209179
From: illuzionx7
Thursday, December 13, 2007
Scrappy Knights survive scare
UCF overcomes a sloppy first half with solid defense to top the Ragin' Cajuns.
Nine games are done in UCF's 2007-2008 campaign, but the Knights' search for an identity is still a work in progress.
UCF scrapped and ground its way to a 65-52 win over Louisiana-Lafayette Tuesday. But with its first real road trip of the season up next, it's clear that that this team still hasn't found the smoothness it will need to have with the start of conference season barely a month away.
For 20 minutes Tuesday, the Knights struggled to gain any cushion against a feisty Ragin' Cajuns lineup that came in 1-4 but hung around by forcing UCF's offense to bobble exchanges and get limited clear looks at the basket early on.
UCF scrapped and ground its way to a 65-52 win over Louisiana-Lafayette Tuesday. But with its first real road trip of the season up next, it's clear that that this team still hasn't found the smoothness it will need to have with the start of conference season barely a month away.
For 20 minutes Tuesday, the Knights struggled to gain any cushion against a feisty Ragin' Cajuns lineup that came in 1-4 but hung around by forcing UCF's offense to bobble exchanges and get limited clear looks at the basket early on.
Monday, December 10, 2007
Big numbers, little attention for UCF's Smith
While Tim Tebow, Chase Daniel, Colt Brennan and Darren McFadden are in New York City enjoying steaks, luxury hotels and all that goes with the Heisman Trophy ceremony this weekend, Kevin Smith will be in Orlando, Fla., studying for finals and getting ready for a bowl game against Mississippi State.
Kevin who? Kevin Smith? The director? Silent Bob?
No. Kevin Smith, the NCAA's leading rusher. In what will go down as one of the more underappreciated individual campaigns in college football history, Smith finished the regular season with 2,448 rushing yards — just 180 yards shy of Barry Sanders' single-season record. If he turns in an average game in the Liberty Bowl, he will go for 180 and then some to finish 2007 as the owner of the greatest rushing season in Division I-A/College Bowl Subdivision history.
Peter Schrager: FoxSportsSmith consensus All-American
UCF junior RB Kevin Smith will be the first player in school history to earn NCAA consensus All-America honors.
With four of the five NCAA Division I-A All-America teams already announced that are used to determine the NCAA's consensus All-America teams, Smith and Arkansas junior Darren McFadden have secured the two running back spots.
The NCAA uses a point system based upon inclusion on five nationally recognized All-America teams to determine whether a player will be awarded a spot on the consensus team. First-place honors are worth three points, second-place honors are worth two and third-place honors are worth one.
Orlando Sentinel
With four of the five NCAA Division I-A All-America teams already announced that are used to determine the NCAA's consensus All-America teams, Smith and Arkansas junior Darren McFadden have secured the two running back spots.
The NCAA uses a point system based upon inclusion on five nationally recognized All-America teams to determine whether a player will be awarded a spot on the consensus team. First-place honors are worth three points, second-place honors are worth two and third-place honors are worth one.
Orlando Sentinel
UCF cannot catch Ole Miss
There was no weird, eerie music. No psychedelic swirl or slow voiceovers pumping out of the UCF Arena public address system.
But there was something very déjà vu-like about UCF's 76-67 loss to Ole Miss on Saturday night.
Facing their first Southeastern Conference opponent at home since 1997 in front of a school-record crowd of 5,574, the Knights walked on the floor Saturday with another ripe chance to gain a signature victory.
But there was something very déjà vu-like about UCF's 76-67 loss to Ole Miss on Saturday night.
Facing their first Southeastern Conference opponent at home since 1997 in front of a school-record crowd of 5,574, the Knights walked on the floor Saturday with another ripe chance to gain a signature victory.
But much like in their previous early-season setbacks to Villanova and Kansas State, this team continues to have trouble solving the problem of turning close losses into victories. It's almost like a Bob Vila This Old House project with a few missing tools.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
UCF breaks before Liberty Bowl
George O'Leary said he thinks the Knights will be ready when they return Dec. 17.
For the first time in 13 weeks, there was an odd sound around UCF's football complex last week: Silence.
No chatter of players around the locker room, office doors opening and closing or even the clanging of barbells in the weight room.
Knights Coach George O'Leary doesn't mind that his team is taking some time off after seven victories in a row culminated in the school's first Conference USA championship. It comes at a good time -- before preparations begin to face Mississippi State on Dec. 29 in the Liberty Bowl, UCF's second bowl appearance in three years.
No chatter of players around the locker room, office doors opening and closing or even the clanging of barbells in the weight room.
Knights Coach George O'Leary doesn't mind that his team is taking some time off after seven victories in a row culminated in the school's first Conference USA championship. It comes at a good time -- before preparations begin to face Mississippi State on Dec. 29 in the Liberty Bowl, UCF's second bowl appearance in three years.
Liberty is a sellout
UCF still has some tickets, but officials hope the rest of its 10,000 go quickly.
Time is running out for UCF fans to get their hands on tickets for the Dec. 29 Liberty Bowl.
Bowl officials in Memphis, Tenn., announced a sellout on the game's Web site Saturday afternoon. The announcement came after Mississippi State distributed its allotment of 30,000 tickets and UCF claimed its extra allotment of 2,000 seats to bring its total count to 10,000.
UCF spokesman Joe Hornstein said as of noon Saturday that the school ticket office had sold about 7,200 of the allotted seats and expects the remaining tickets to go quickly. After UCF sells the rest of its tickets, Knights fans will have to pay a premium and rely on ticket brokers such as StubHub to buy tickets -- or take their chances with other third parties. A letter from Knights Coach George O'Leary will go out to fans Monday to help stoke that urgency.
Bowl officials in Memphis, Tenn., announced a sellout on the game's Web site Saturday afternoon. The announcement came after Mississippi State distributed its allotment of 30,000 tickets and UCF claimed its extra allotment of 2,000 seats to bring its total count to 10,000.
UCF spokesman Joe Hornstein said as of noon Saturday that the school ticket office had sold about 7,200 of the allotted seats and expects the remaining tickets to go quickly. After UCF sells the rest of its tickets, Knights fans will have to pay a premium and rely on ticket brokers such as StubHub to buy tickets -- or take their chances with other third parties. A letter from Knights Coach George O'Leary will go out to fans Monday to help stoke that urgency.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Despite stellar season, UCF standout Kevin Smith misses out on awards
Two Florida native sons. Two very different kinds of weeks.
Florida's Tim Tebow has been like a president waiting for his inauguration.
The Heisman Trophy frontrunner's record-breaking year has been on display for a national audience to see in the days leading up to the presentation of college football's highest individual honor.
Florida's Tim Tebow has been like a president waiting for his inauguration.
The Heisman Trophy frontrunner's record-breaking year has been on display for a national audience to see in the days leading up to the presentation of college football's highest individual honor.
But here in Orlando, with numbers just as staggering as those of his state neighbor, UCF running back Kevin Smith has had a quiet week.
Smith ended the regular season with 2,448 rushing yards, just 180 yards shy of Barry Sanders' all-time single-season record. Yet Smith, who won't join Tebow in New York as a Heisman finalist, was without much Heisman hype and isn't even a finalist for any of the heavy hardware at tonight's College Football Awards Show.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Smith ended the regular season with 2,448 rushing yards, just 180 yards shy of Barry Sanders' all-time single-season record. Yet Smith, who won't join Tebow in New York as a Heisman finalist, was without much Heisman hype and isn't even a finalist for any of the heavy hardware at tonight's College Football Awards Show.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Wednesday, December 05, 2007
Record-busting is enough for a Heisman spot
http://www.sportsline.com/collegefootball/story/10514241
Kevin Smith. Yes, Kevin Smith.
Given that the Heisman race already has taken the low road, why not more controversy? Central Florida's magnificent tailback is on my Heisman ballot.
Florida's Tim Tebow is a "system" quarterback, according to Hawaii coach June Jones. I missed the system that has yet to develop another 20-rushing, 20-passing touchdown QB, but that's another story.
Might as well make it a full-fledged argument. I liked Smith because he did what Jones' quarterback did last season: Shatter records. Colt Brennan threw 58 touchdown passes last season and couldn't get a trip to New York.
Smith is now the No. 2 single-season rusher in history (2,448 yards). The junior needs 181 yards in the bowl game to surpass one Barry Sanders on the all-time list.
Dennis Dodd; CBSSportsline
Prospect watch
Central Florida junior running back Kevin Smith is now just 180 yards behind the single-season record for rushing yards held by Barry Sanders. Smith plans to ask the NFL Advisory Committee for an evaluation of his current draft grade. He has impressed scouts with his consistency, long gains and ability to be a work horse (he could finish the season with 450 carries). Smith is pondering whether to make a run at next year's Heisman Trophy or turn pro. He could earn a first-round grade now, but some scouts wonder if he has the bulk to handle the pounding of the NFL. Scouts estimate his 40-time in the 4.55 range and some feel he is not a complete back in terms of receiving and blocking. Smith will likely to enter the draft with a first-round grade. Another collegiate season with 400-plus carries could actually hurt his stock.
John Murphy: Yahoo sports
MSU football: Liberty Bowl bid ends era of frustration for Bulldogs
http://www.clarionledger.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071203/SPORTS030102/712030341/1079/SPORTS
STARKVILLE — Liberty Bowl board member Jan Gwin took the podium at a press conference here Sunday night and went through all the formalities of extending an invitation to the 49th edition of his game to Mississippi State. Then, he looked to his right, saw coach Sylvester Croom and politely cushioned that invitation with a "should you decide to accept."
Croom laughed.
Should he decide to accept? Please. After six years of no more than three wins, a bowl berth - any bowl berth - was the best news anyone could imagine around here. And yes, the Bulldogs (7-5) formally accepted the invitation of Gwin, a former State lineman.
Don't expect anyone around here to be whining about what could have been. With the SEC Championship Game's result Saturday seemingly knocking out any hopes of the Music City or Chick-Fil-A bowls, the 13th bowl trip in school history fell squarely onto the shoulders of the Liberty Bowl - which had pressed State more than any other bowl over recent weeks.
Kyle Veazey: Clarion Ledger
TU loses Central Florida rematch
http://www.tulsaworld.com/sports/college/article.aspx?subjectID=94&articleID=071202_2_B13_hUCFK66224
UCF Knights shut out Hurricane offense in second half to win C-USA title.
ORLANDO, Fla. -- A disappointed Todd Graham and his Tulsa players walked past the Liberty Bowl trophy after describing what went wrong during Saturday's football game at Central Florida.
The bronze trophy inadvertently rang as it was symbolically being placed near UCF's victory press conference.
That clang may haunt TU following a 44-25 loss to the Knights in the Conference USA Championship game.
The sound will probably be mixed with the rabid cheers of 44,128 gold-clad UCF fans after every score, sack and interception. Then there are the chants of "Heisman" after UCF running back Kevin Smith chewed up 284 rushing yards against the Golden Hurricane defense.
Tulsa ended one win short of a season goal of a league title. And it may sting for a while.
"To get to this game and lose, it definitely hurts," TU's Tarrion Adams said. "I hurt for the seniors."
Eric Bailey: Tulsa World
The bronze trophy inadvertently rang as it was symbolically being placed near UCF's victory press conference.
That clang may haunt TU following a 44-25 loss to the Knights in the Conference USA Championship game.
The sound will probably be mixed with the rabid cheers of 44,128 gold-clad UCF fans after every score, sack and interception. Then there are the chants of "Heisman" after UCF running back Kevin Smith chewed up 284 rushing yards against the Golden Hurricane defense.
Tulsa ended one win short of a season goal of a league title. And it may sting for a while.
"To get to this game and lose, it definitely hurts," TU's Tarrion Adams said. "I hurt for the seniors."
Eric Bailey: Tulsa World
UCF's formula for winning works again
http://www.tulsaworld.com/sports/college/article.aspx?subjectID=94&articleID=071202_2_B13_spanc30072
ORLANDO, Fla. -- Tulsa said it would be different this time against Central Florida.
But, it really wasn't.
"We did some poor things," Tulsa coach Todd Graham said. "It was just not our day."
Central Florida followed a script that worked so well earlier this season in a victory over Tulsa.
TU found it difficult to protect quarterback Paul Smith and UCF's Kevin Smith ran wild as Central Florida won the Conference USA Championship Game, 44-25, Saturday at Bright House Networks Stadium.
It was deja vu. All over again.
John Klein: Tulsa World
But, it really wasn't.
"We did some poor things," Tulsa coach Todd Graham said. "It was just not our day."
Central Florida followed a script that worked so well earlier this season in a victory over Tulsa.
TU found it difficult to protect quarterback Paul Smith and UCF's Kevin Smith ran wild as Central Florida won the Conference USA Championship Game, 44-25, Saturday at Bright House Networks Stadium.
It was deja vu. All over again.
John Klein: Tulsa World
UCF finally wins a big home game
http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Sports/CollegeSports/sptFBC02120207.htm
ORLANDO -- In racing, "The Big One" is the term used to describe a big wreck on NASCAR's superspeedways.
Saturday at Bright House Networks Stadium, UCF found itself in the "Big One" at home -- but had no trouble driving up and down the field.
The win was a long time coming for a program that hadn't won a big game at home since it defeated William & Mary 52-38 in the 1990 Division I-AA playoffs.
A couple of big wins have come on the road the last 17 years, but nothing like Saturday's 44-25 victory over Tulsa in the Conference USA Championship Game.
BUDDY SHACKLETTE : Daytona Beach News Journal
Respect coming to UCF running back Kevin Smith
http://floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20071202/COLUMNISTS0306/712020336/1065/SPORTS
ORLANDO - If Kevin Smith wore a necktie, he'd be tugging at it.
Then again, maybe Kevin Smith is a little too young to recall Rodney Dangerfield and the late comic's "I get no respect" shtick.
Come to think of it, UCF's sensational running back is probably also too young to recall a couple of Pro Football Hall of Fame running backs by the names Marcus Allen and Barry Sanders.
The former, Marcus Allen, Smith passed Saturday to move into second place on college football's all-time single-season rushing list. The latter, Barry Sanders, Smith now trails by 180 yards with one game to play.
Pete Kerasotis: Florida Today
UCF will face Mississippi State's tough defense in Liberty Bowl
UCF Coach George O'Leary woke up to a surprise the morning after his Knights' 44-25 victory over Tulsa in Saturday's Conference USA Championship Game.
"My wife came to me and showed me a 'For Sale' sign she'd kept and never showed me that somebody had put in our yard after the USF game," he said smiling. "I just kind of laughed it off. It's whatever, you just move on. It's all a part of the college football scene."
That scene had a different view Sunday. But the Knights' euphoria was muted slightly as the coaching staff awaited news of their opponent for the Dec. 29 Liberty Bowl.
"My wife came to me and showed me a 'For Sale' sign she'd kept and never showed me that somebody had put in our yard after the USF game," he said smiling. "I just kind of laughed it off. It's whatever, you just move on. It's all a part of the college football scene."
That scene had a different view Sunday. But the Knights' euphoria was muted slightly as the coaching staff awaited news of their opponent for the Dec. 29 Liberty Bowl.
It came shortly before 2 p.m. as the Liberty Bowl announced Mississippi State as UCF's foe.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
UCF Knights, fans relish win and upcoming trip to Liberty Bowl
A human sea of black and gold went wild Saturday, stomping feet, doing the wave and rattling a new stadium as the University of Central Florida walloped Tulsa to win its first conference championship.
"UCF! UCF!" the crowd of about 44,000 cheered at the moment of victory. "Rush the field! Rush the field!"
They didn't, but fans at Bright House Networks Stadium created a deafening roar as they celebrated and sang Queen's victory anthem "We Are the Champions."
"UCF! UCF!" the crowd of about 44,000 cheered at the moment of victory. "Rush the field! Rush the field!"
They didn't, but fans at Bright House Networks Stadium created a deafening roar as they celebrated and sang Queen's victory anthem "We Are the Champions."
The win means UCF is bound for the Dec. 29 Liberty Bowl in Memphis, Tenn., to face a Southeastern Conference team and attempt another school first: a postseason bowl win.
Susan Jacobson: Orlando Sentinel
Smith rocks Tulsa like a hurricane
The first domino to fall was Kyle Israel.
His team in front of him, lined up in victory formation, the UCF senior quarterback called for the snap and took a knee.
Popping up, he looked toward the Bright House Networks Stadium scoreboard and at the fading clock to see if that play would be enough to give the Knights a 44-25 victory and their first Conference USA championship.
His team in front of him, lined up in victory formation, the UCF senior quarterback called for the snap and took a knee.
Popping up, he looked toward the Bright House Networks Stadium scoreboard and at the fading clock to see if that play would be enough to give the Knights a 44-25 victory and their first Conference USA championship.
His final official deed complete and the mission accomplished, he snatched off his helmet and ran toward the student section behind him with his arms raised.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Knights are kings of Conference USA
UCF completes its amazing turnaround
You can keep the Heisman.
You can keep the Doak Walker, too.
And you can keep every other national award, accolade, trophy and trinket.
You can keep the Doak Walker, too.
And you can keep every other national award, accolade, trophy and trinket.
"We've got something better," UCF's record-breaking running back Kevin Smith said after running for 284 yards and four touchdowns in Saturday's historic, euphoric 44-25 victory over Tulsa. "We've got a conference championship. I'll take that over a Heisman any day. The conference championship trophy doesn't have anybody's individual name on it -- it only has the name of your team."
Mike Bianchi: Orlando Sentinel
UCF's defensive line stands out in win over Tulsa
The Knights sack Tulsa's Paul Smith 6 times and pick off the quarterback 3 times.
Whenever the question has come up this season about what has been the biggest contributing factor to the success of his defense, UCF Coach George O'Leary hasn't needed much time to think about it:
The defensive line, no question.
While there might have been room for argument at times over the past six weeks, after its performance in the Knights' 44-25 victory over Tulsa Saturday, the defensive line left little doubt for even the most skeptical observer.
The defensive line, no question.
While there might have been room for argument at times over the past six weeks, after its performance in the Knights' 44-25 victory over Tulsa Saturday, the defensive line left little doubt for even the most skeptical observer.
Six weeks after sacking one of the nation's most prolific passers in Tulsa quarterback Paul Smith four times, the Knights' defensive line got him six times Saturday.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Knights bulled over in Tampa once again
USF 75, UCF 67
TAMPA - With less than a minute in regulation, the UCF men's basketball stood just one possession away from a historic victory or yet another dreadful loss to South Florida.
Only problem was it left the Bulls' dangerously quick freshman guard, Dominique Jones, to answer its fate.
Jones, who finished with a career-high 30 points, lobbed a layup with 43 seconds left to end any hope of a Knights victory in the 75-67 defeat at the Sun Dome on Saturday. It was the first meeting between the schools in four years and a UCF victory would have marked its first win against USF since 1994.
Shannon Owens: Orlando Sentinel
Only problem was it left the Bulls' dangerously quick freshman guard, Dominique Jones, to answer its fate.
Jones, who finished with a career-high 30 points, lobbed a layup with 43 seconds left to end any hope of a Knights victory in the 75-67 defeat at the Sun Dome on Saturday. It was the first meeting between the schools in four years and a UCF victory would have marked its first win against USF since 1994.
Shannon Owens: Orlando Sentinel
Another dazzling display for UCF's Kevin Smith
Kevin Smith's 284 yards on 39 carries has fans asking the junior to return for his senior year.
A crowd of 100 or so people waited outside the UCF locker room following the Knights' 44-25 victory Saturday afternoon in the Conference USA Championship Game.
And when running back Kevin Smith finally emerged, the fans serenaded him.
"One more year!" they chanted. "One more year! One more year!"
And when running back Kevin Smith finally emerged, the fans serenaded him.
"One more year!" they chanted. "One more year! One more year!"
Who could possibly blame them for wanting the day's hero to return for his senior season? On Saturday, Smith rushed for 284 yards and four touchdowns to lead UCF to its first conference title and earn most valuable player honors.
Josh Robbins: Orlando Sentinel
Friday, November 30, 2007
A 2,000 odyssey for UCF's Smith
UCF's Kevin Smith leads the nation in rushing yards, a distinction he reached in part because of a mother and brother who wouldn't succumb to life-threatening situations.
Remarkable story, isn't it?
A high school football player from the heart of Miami who gets largely overlooked in recruiting and goes to a school he has never heard of to become arguably the most productive runner in college football three years into the process.
Not really.
At least not compared to the complete story. The one that starts with his family.
Kevin Smith is the University of Central Florida running back who refuses to be ignored, leading the country in rushing yards, rushing attempts, scoring and 100-yard games.
ISRAEL GUTIERREZ: Miami Herald
No Heisman, no worries
http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Sports/Headlines/sptFBC03113007.htm
ORLANDO -- Despite downright gaudy rushing numbers, UCF's Kevin Smith won't be a part of the Heisman Trophy Award presentation in New York next week.
The only person who doesn't seem to be too concerned about that is Smith. He has his mind on other matters, such as the Knights winning the Conference USA championship Saturday afternoon vs. Tulsa.
But that's typical Smith. In the midst of one of the greatest single-season offensive performances in NCAA history, he has downplayed his individual significance. His humility has never wavered, nor has his focus on taking UCF to the top of the C-USA heap.
"Forget all of the awards, we're playing for a championship and a championship was our goal from Day 1," Smith said.
SHAWN A. AKERS: Daytona Beach News Journal
Kay's UCF voyage
A year ago at this time, Ricky Kay had just finished his high school football career for the DeLand High Bulldogs.
He also thought he was done with football altogether. He was deemed a decent college prospect, but he had no scholarship offers. While he was a little despondent because of this, he was cheered up by the fact baseball seemed to be his salvation.
So much has changed in a year.
Kay will suit up for the University of Central Florida in the Conference USA championship game to be played at noon Saturday on ESPN before what is expected to be a sellout crowd at Bright House Networks Stadium.
Tony Jones: Daytona Beach News JournalConference USA Championship: Smith versus Smith
Star Smiths set to battle for C-USA trophy
ORLANDO, Fla. -- A Smith will hold the Conference USA trophy high over his head following Saturday's league championship game.
Will it be Tulsa quarterback Paul Smith, who has already set six school records and five C-USA marks this season?
Or is it going to be University of Central Florida running back Kevin Smith, who is the NCAA's leading rusher with 2,164 yards this season?
Both Smiths were voted C-USA co-offensive players of the year by a media panel on Wednesday. Both have played in the league championship game before, when Tulsa defeated the Knights in 2005. Both have been cornerstones of magical journeys that have led to returns to the C-USA title game.
But only one player will reach his goal.
Will it be Tulsa quarterback Paul Smith, who has already set six school records and five C-USA marks this season?
Or is it going to be University of Central Florida running back Kevin Smith, who is the NCAA's leading rusher with 2,164 yards this season?
Both Smiths were voted C-USA co-offensive players of the year by a media panel on Wednesday. Both have played in the league championship game before, when Tulsa defeated the Knights in 2005. Both have been cornerstones of magical journeys that have led to returns to the C-USA title game.
But only one player will reach his goal.
Eric Bailey: TulsaWorld.com
2007 not the best for C-USA
Still, the conference is in much better shape than was projected after it lost teams to the Big East.
It was four days before the big day, but Conference USA Commissioner Britton Banowsky was already smiling as he paced the corridors of Bright House Networks Stadium earlier this week.
It had been just two months since his last visit for UCF's home opener against Texas, but he could still visualize national television cameras, clumps of tailgaters and fans experiencing a college football atmosphere the east Orlando school had never seen before.
This Saturday, when UCF and Tulsa meet in the league's third conference championship game, Banowsky will again be celebrating that atmosphere when he walks into Bright House. A sellout crowd is expected and the same ESPN cameras will again be focused on a league many thought would die just three years after being raided by the Big East.
It had been just two months since his last visit for UCF's home opener against Texas, but he could still visualize national television cameras, clumps of tailgaters and fans experiencing a college football atmosphere the east Orlando school had never seen before.
This Saturday, when UCF and Tulsa meet in the league's third conference championship game, Banowsky will again be celebrating that atmosphere when he walks into Bright House. A sellout crowd is expected and the same ESPN cameras will again be focused on a league many thought would die just three years after being raided by the Big East.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Tulsa-UCF matches fuel young rivalry
Revenge will be the word of the day Saturday when Tulsa and UCF meet for the second time this season. The Knights avenged their 2005 title game loss with a victory over the Golden Hurricane in October.
The league is short on rivalries so this may be the closest thing Conference USA has to one right now.
Tulsa senior SS Anthony Germany said he expects this installment between the schools to be the toughest to date.
The league is short on rivalries so this may be the closest thing Conference USA has to one right now.
Tulsa senior SS Anthony Germany said he expects this installment between the schools to be the toughest to date.
"Anytime that you lose to someone, especially in football, knowing that your chances of getting to play them are slim to none most times, it usually sticks in the back of your mind," he said. "... They are the best team in Conference USA right now, and we are going to clash on Saturday and see who is the best."
Jumpy fans worry UCF, but officials call stadium safe
Some frenzied football fans at the University of Central Florida are calling their new stadium "The Trampoline" -- and treating it like one.
Fans have discovered they can make the upper deck bounce by jumping up and down at once.
Their cue to go crazy: the techno-pop dance beat of Zombie Nation's Kernkraft 400.
Fans have discovered they can make the upper deck bounce by jumping up and down at once.
Their cue to go crazy: the techno-pop dance beat of Zombie Nation's Kernkraft 400.
"It's fun!" sophomore Michelle Martin says of the bouncing sensation that resulted in the trampoline nickname.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Central Florida RB Kevin Smith quietly turning in record rushing year
ORLANDO, Fla. - The nation's leading rusher leaves practice just days before playing in a conference championship game without facing a swarm of reporters.
Such is life at Central Florida for Kevin Smith, who has quietly put together one of the best seasons for a running back in college football history.
He has run for 2,164 yards this season, fourth-best in NCAA history, and still has two games to play. The junior has 26 touchdowns, a 300-yard game and five more with at least 200 yards. At the rate he's going, only Barry Sanders' 2,628 yards in 1989 will stand ahead of Smith's total this season.
Smith gets to add to those totals Saturday in the Conference USA championship against Tulsa.
Travis Reed: AP
Success boosts bottom line for UCF sports
Winning and major moves tend to raise donations to UCF's athletics program.
Raising money for UCF's sports programs used to be a struggle.
During the 1998 fiscal year, 1,000 people made donations totaling $544,000 -- low figures for a university as large as UCF.
But the financial picture looks much rosier these days. Last fiscal year, 4,100 people gave $7.1 million to the athletic program, and now school officials hope that their football team's successful 2007 season will lead to even greater contributions.
"Our fund raising is at a completely different level than it was when I first got here in 1999," said Tim Leonard, the school's associate athletic director for development. "The biggest difference is just the credibility of the program. People just perceive us differently. If we can just keep on winning, I think things will just take off."During the 1998 fiscal year, 1,000 people made donations totaling $544,000 -- low figures for a university as large as UCF.
But the financial picture looks much rosier these days. Last fiscal year, 4,100 people gave $7.1 million to the athletic program, and now school officials hope that their football team's successful 2007 season will lead to even greater contributions.
Sentinel
O'Leary named coach of the year
UCF Coach George O'Leary will go into Saturday's Conference USA title game against Tulsa celebrating his second league coach of the year honor in three seasons.
The announcement came Wednesday after votes were tallied from selected C-USA media from each member city. Also honored by the league's media Wednesday was junior TB Kevin Smith, who shared the league's player of the year honors with Tulsa QB Paul Smith.
In last Saturday's regular season finale against UTEP, Kevin Smith became the first running back in state history to rush for 2,000 yards in a season, giving him the national rushing lead with 2,164 yards this season. He also leads the nation with a league-record 26 touchdowns. He was C-USA freshman of the year in 2005.
The announcement came Wednesday after votes were tallied from selected C-USA media from each member city. Also honored by the league's media Wednesday was junior TB Kevin Smith, who shared the league's player of the year honors with Tulsa QB Paul Smith.
In last Saturday's regular season finale against UTEP, Kevin Smith became the first running back in state history to rush for 2,000 yards in a season, giving him the national rushing lead with 2,164 yards this season. He also leads the nation with a league-record 26 touchdowns. He was C-USA freshman of the year in 2005.
Sentinel
Following Old Spice Classic, Knights defeat Presbyterian
UCF 80, Presbyterian 53
After battling teams from the Big East, Big XII and Big Ten at the Old Spice Classic over Thanksgiving weekend, the UCF basketball team returned home Wednesday to a Presbyterian team still looking for its first Division I victory.
But the Knights didn't take their foot off the gas.
Jermaine Taylor scored 22 points and Tony Davis added 14 as the Knights trounced Presbyterian 80-53 in front of 4,733 at the new UCF Arena.
Sentinel
But the Knights didn't take their foot off the gas.
Jermaine Taylor scored 22 points and Tony Davis added 14 as the Knights trounced Presbyterian 80-53 in front of 4,733 at the new UCF Arena.
Sentinel
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
C-USA Media Names UCF's O'Leary Coach of the Year
IRVING, Texas - After leading his squad to the C-USA East Division title and a berth in the 2007 Bright House Networks Conference USA Football Championship Game, UCF head coach George O'Leary has been named the C-USA Coach of the Year, as selected by the league's media members in each conference city. The East Division title highlights a year that saw O'Leary lead UCF to a 9-3 overall record and win the East for the second time in three campaigns in the league.
The Knights' nine wins on the year tie for the most since UCF moved to the Football Bowl Subdivision in 1996. O'Leary's Knights have now won six-consecutive contests entering Saturday's championship game. The streak marks just the second time in program history that UCF has claimed six-straight victories (1990).
Conference USA
Improved UCF ready for Tulsa
http://www.tulsaworld.com/sports/baseball/article.aspx?subjectID=94&articleID=071128_2_B1_hOLea12636
O'Leary's Knights aim for a happy end to 2007 title game.
The University of Central Florida relied on a tough bunch when its football season could have slipped away.
Demoralized after a 64-12 loss to in-state rival South Florida, the Knights sat at 3-3 when Tulsa visited Bright House Networks Stadium on Oct. 20.
"(The senior leadership) did a great job of saying we set goals for this football team and they're still there," UCF coach George O'Leary said. "A lot of times, when you lose a couple of games, they don't keep that goal in sight.
"I think we did a good job of keeping a vision of what we wanted to do at the end of the year."
The Knights (9-3) finished the regular season with a six-game winning streak, starting with a 44-23 win against TU on that October afternoon.
The teams will meet again in Orlando, Fla., on Saturday to play in the Conference USA championship game. Kickoff for the ESPN contest is 11 a.m.
Eric Bailey; Tulsa World
Demoralized after a 64-12 loss to in-state rival South Florida, the Knights sat at 3-3 when Tulsa visited Bright House Networks Stadium on Oct. 20.
"(The senior leadership) did a great job of saying we set goals for this football team and they're still there," UCF coach George O'Leary said. "A lot of times, when you lose a couple of games, they don't keep that goal in sight.
"I think we did a good job of keeping a vision of what we wanted to do at the end of the year."
The Knights (9-3) finished the regular season with a six-game winning streak, starting with a 44-23 win against TU on that October afternoon.
The teams will meet again in Orlando, Fla., on Saturday to play in the Conference USA championship game. Kickoff for the ESPN contest is 11 a.m.
Eric Bailey; Tulsa World
Knight without honor
UCF's Kevin Smith getting slighted by voters
George O'Leary doesn't have to stretch his ocular muscles to see big things for his prized running back, Kevin Smith.
"I can see him standing in New York City . . . ," said O'Leary, UCF's head football coach.
But here's the kicker, the tag line, the reason why we added ellipses dots to his statement. You see, here is O'Leary's complete sentence, uninterrupted:
"I can see him standing in New York City next year."
Not next week.
Though he should be.
Peter Kerasotis: Florida Today
Israel relishing senior season at the helm
Four years after arriving at UCF, the quarterback has overcome many obstacles to lead the Knights.
At first, he thought his career was over.
That's what UCF senior quarterback Kyle Israel said first raced through his mind as he was helped off the field in the opening minutes of the Knights' 36-20 victory over UTEP last Saturday.
Only a few minutes before, Israel had taken just his second snap in probably the biggest game of his career. But when he heard his knee pop as he was driven to the Bright House Networks Stadium turf, nothing about his three-year journey to get to that moment mattered.
That's what UCF senior quarterback Kyle Israel said first raced through his mind as he was helped off the field in the opening minutes of the Knights' 36-20 victory over UTEP last Saturday.
Only a few minutes before, Israel had taken just his second snap in probably the biggest game of his career. But when he heard his knee pop as he was driven to the Bright House Networks Stadium turf, nothing about his three-year journey to get to that moment mattered.
His knee throbbing and his mind darting, he was thinking only the worst.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
O'Leary isn't going anywhere
George O'Leary feels at home at UCF, and he isn't going anywhere.
It's great for the talk-radio business.
It keeps the message boards humming.
But there's no truth to any of it.
It keeps the message boards humming.
But there's no truth to any of it.
None at all.
All the rumor and speculation you keep hearing about George O'Leary leaving UCF for one of the 4,378 college football coaching jobs that have opened up in the last week is based on absolutely nothing. O'Leary isn't going anywhere. He is adamant that he will finish off his coaching career at UCF.
Mike Bianchi: Orlando Sentinel
All the rumor and speculation you keep hearing about George O'Leary leaving UCF for one of the 4,378 college football coaching jobs that have opened up in the last week is based on absolutely nothing. O'Leary isn't going anywhere. He is adamant that he will finish off his coaching career at UCF.
Mike Bianchi: Orlando Sentinel
Knights place 11 on C-USA teams
UCF placed a league-high eight players on the media's All-Conference USA First Team, released by conference officials on Tuesday.
The Knights had seven representatives on the first team, with junior Joe Burnett making it as both a cornerback and punt returner. UCF also had two players make the second team and three players on the All-Freshman team.
Junior TB Kevin Smith, who leads Division I-A in rushing with 2,164 yards and 26 touchdowns, was joined on the first team offense by three of his offensive linemen in junior Pat Brown and seniors Josh Sitton and Kyle Smith. That trio has combined for 121 starts.
The Knights had seven representatives on the first team, with junior Joe Burnett making it as both a cornerback and punt returner. UCF also had two players make the second team and three players on the All-Freshman team.
Junior TB Kevin Smith, who leads Division I-A in rushing with 2,164 yards and 26 touchdowns, was joined on the first team offense by three of his offensive linemen in junior Pat Brown and seniors Josh Sitton and Kyle Smith. That trio has combined for 121 starts.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Title-game tickets a hot item at UCF
School athletics officials hope to know the exact number of tickets sold by today.
Tickets are going fast as UCF prepares to host its second Conference USA Championship Game in three years Saturday.
Matt DiFebo, UCF's associate athletics director for external services, said Monday that tickets were selling at a "feverish" pace with online ticket requests going "non-stop."
"The demand is extremely high and what we expected with the excitement around the game," DiFebo said.
Matt DiFebo, UCF's associate athletics director for external services, said Monday that tickets were selling at a "feverish" pace with online ticket requests going "non-stop."
"The demand is extremely high and what we expected with the excitement around the game," DiFebo said.
DiFebo didn't have a ticket sales figure Monday but intends to give a more specific update at today's title-game press conference when he said reserve tickets from last week's advance offering to UCF season ticket holders would be tallied.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Smith, Hogue earn C-USA top honors vs. Tulsa Saturday, noon TV: ESPN
Following strong performances in UCF's 36-20 win over UTEP Saturday, junior TB Kevin Smith and junior LB Cory Hogue were named Conference USA offensive and defensive players of the week on Monday.
Smith rushed for 219 yards and a touchdown against the Miners and became the first running back in state history to surpass 2,000 yards in a season. He's rushed for 4,276 yards in his career, which moves him past UF's Errict Rhett for first on the all-time charts in the Sunshine State.
Hogue took his first weekly honor and third for a Knights defender this season after posting a career-best 13 tackles while helping hold UTEP to just 28 rushing yards.
Smith rushed for 219 yards and a touchdown against the Miners and became the first running back in state history to surpass 2,000 yards in a season. He's rushed for 4,276 yards in his career, which moves him past UF's Errict Rhett for first on the all-time charts in the Sunshine State.
Hogue took his first weekly honor and third for a Knights defender this season after posting a career-best 13 tackles while helping hold UTEP to just 28 rushing yards.
Monday, November 26, 2007
UCF Teammates Earn Offensive and Defensive Honors
After clinching the East Division of Conference USA with a win over UTEP on Saturday, UCF takes home the final Offensive and Defensive Player of the Week honors for the 2007 season. Junior RB Kevin Smith gained his fourth Offensive Player of the Week award this year after rushing for 219 yards and topping the 2,000-yard mark for the season. Junior LB Cory Hogue earned the Defensive nod after registering a career-high 13 tackles against the Miners. Special Teams recognition went to Memphis sophomore K Matt Reagan, who finished off a 13-point day by kicking the game-winning field goal in triple-overtime against SMU.
Conference USA
Knights win East Division
UCF set to host C-USA title game
ORLANDO -- The celebration for UCF was two-pronged Saturday night at Bright House Networks Stadium.
First and foremost, the Knights accomplished their big goal of the season, winning the East Division of Conference USA with a 36-20 victory over UTEP. UCF's sixth consecutive victory allows it to host the C-USA title game next Saturday against Tulsa, a team it defeated earlier this season, 44-23.
In addition, Knights running back Kevin Smith had another monster performance. The junior ran for 219 yards and one touchdown and, in the process, became the first Florida college football player to rush for more than 2,000 yards in a single season. Smith passed TCU's LaDanian Tomlinson for fourth on the NCAA single-season rushing list with 2,164 yards.
SHAWN A. AKERS: Orlando Sentinel
UCF plays for all the marbles
http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/Sports/CollegeSports/sptFBC03112407.htm
ORLANDO -- Two weeks ago, the prospects for making it to the Conference USA championship game weren't looking very good for UCF. The Knights needed to win their final three games, plus an East Carolina loss to reach the title tilt. With the way the Pirates were playing, the latter didn't seem likely. Call it fate, the unlikely all of a sudden seems possible. With East Carolina's loss to Marshall on Nov. 10, UCF once again controls its own destiny. The Knights (8-3, 6-1) can win the East Division and clinch a spot in the C-USA title game today with a victory over UTEP (4-7, 2-5) in the regular-season finale at Bright House Networks Stadium. Should UCF win, it would host either Tulsa or Houston on Dec. 1.Shawn Akers: Daytona Beach News Journal 11/24/07
UCF gets another shot at Conference USA championship game
It had been only a few minutes since his team had galloped off its home field, the countdown having started on the arrival of its second Conference USA title game in three years.
But as much as people kept trying to make him excited about UCF's 36-20 win over UTEP Saturday, Knights Coach George O'Leary refused to waver on his biggest postgame sentiment.
His team isn't satisfied just being C-USA East Division champs.
But as much as people kept trying to make him excited about UCF's 36-20 win over UTEP Saturday, Knights Coach George O'Leary refused to waver on his biggest postgame sentiment.
His team isn't satisfied just being C-USA East Division champs.
"[Saturday's win] gives us the division outright, [but] as I told our players, that wasn't our deal," O'Leary said. "Our deal was the conference championship. We have another week of practice and we'll go from there."
UCF rallies from back-to-back losses to beat Penn State
UCF 70, Penn State 59
The Knights rally to beat the Nittany Lions in the final round of the tournament.
This one was about respect.
UCF took an emotional beating in the Old Spice Classic, dropping back-to-back games to Top 20 opponents by an average of five points.
The Knights were feeling especially bad after faltering late against No. 18 Kansas State and losing 73-71 in overtime Friday night.
UCF took an emotional beating in the Old Spice Classic, dropping back-to-back games to Top 20 opponents by an average of five points.
The Knights were feeling especially bad after faltering late against No. 18 Kansas State and losing 73-71 in overtime Friday night.
Instead of tacking on another loss, UCF rallied to beat Penn State 70-59 Sunday in the final round of the tournament played at Disney.
Sentinel
Sentinel
UCF secures berth in C-USA title game against Tulsa
UCF senior quarterback Kyle Israel was looking for somebody to hug.
Coming up empty, he trotted toward the middle of the field, a 36-20 scoreboard and Conference USA East Division title at his back. About halfway there, he started to bounce up and down, like a wind-up toy with a fresh battery, pushing his helmet in the direction of the sky.
Five weeks ago, nothing about that moment seemed possible for Israel or his Knights' teammates coming off the worst loss in their Division I-A history to USF.
Coming up empty, he trotted toward the middle of the field, a 36-20 scoreboard and Conference USA East Division title at his back. About halfway there, he started to bounce up and down, like a wind-up toy with a fresh battery, pushing his helmet in the direction of the sky.
Five weeks ago, nothing about that moment seemed possible for Israel or his Knights' teammates coming off the worst loss in their Division I-A history to USF.
But six consecutive victories later, the Knights' victory against UTEP on Saturday has given them a shot to do what no UCF team has: win a conference championship on its home field.
Defense dishes out strong plays vs. UTEP's offense
UTEP's offense was supposedly going to be a big headache for the Knights.
Instead, it was UCF's defense that dished out the pain.
The Miners entered Saturday's game ranked third in Conference USA in scoring offense, averaging 34.8 points per game.
Instead, it was UCF's defense that dished out the pain.
The Miners entered Saturday's game ranked third in Conference USA in scoring offense, averaging 34.8 points per game.
UTEP ended the game with 20 points, including one touchdown.
The Knights sacked UTEP quarterback Trevor Vittatoe twice and snagged two game-changing interceptions that shut down the Miners' shot at a comeback.
The Knights sacked UTEP quarterback Trevor Vittatoe twice and snagged two game-changing interceptions that shut down the Miners' shot at a comeback.
Smith surpasses 2,000-yard mark
UCF 36, UTEP 20
He rushes for 219 yards and leads the nation with a season total of 2,164 yards.
Kevin Smith swears all the records in the world don't matter, but he still cradled the game ball in his hands like it was precious.
He was toting the ball he used to eclipse 2,000 yards rushing this season, a feat unrivaled by a slew of other marquee players who have graced Florida football fields.
"This ball is going straight to my mama," he said. "It definitely belongs to her."
He was toting the ball he used to eclipse 2,000 yards rushing this season, a feat unrivaled by a slew of other marquee players who have graced Florida football fields.
"This ball is going straight to my mama," he said. "It definitely belongs to her."
Smith, UCF's star running back, didn't stray from his tradition of deflecting praise.
Sentinel
UCF's Smith adds to state's list of great running backs
The state of Florida has produced a number of great running backs, including all-time NFL rushing leader Emmitt Smith of the University of Florida.
But with 6:45 left in the second quarter, Kevin Smith did something no collegiate back in state history had ever done: With a 7-yard carry, he passed the 2,000-yard barrier. His 211 yards left him with 2,164 on the season, good for fourth all-time.
The season was expanded to 12 games last year. He will need 141 yards against Tulsa next week to win the national rushing title.
Some other marks from the junior: His 11th 100-yard game is a Conference USA single-season record; his 4,276 career yards break the Florida record, held by the University of Florida's Eric Rhett, who had 4,057 for the Gators from 1990-93; his 46 carries were a school record.
Bret Bloomquist / El Paso Times
Miners play better, still lose to UCF
ORLANDO -- At the end of a lost season, UTEP proved a whole lot better at playing for pride than it did for a bowl.
Against a lesser opponent than Central Florida, that might have been good for a happy ending. As it was, the Miners' best November game was good for a 36-20 loss against a 9-3 Knights team that secured a spot as the host of next week's Conference USA title game against Tulsa.
"I thought we had two good games against two of the best running backs in the country," linebacker Adam Vincent said of UCF's Kevin Smith and Tulane's Matt Forte, who are the two national rushing leaders. "It sucks that we didn't come out with a win. It was awesome playing with these guys (UTEP's seniors); we played a good game. If we had made a few more stops and the offense cold have scored a few more points, we could have won."
Bret Bloomquist / El Paso Times
Knights in
UCF 36, UTEP 20
Smith's surge sends UCF to title game
He'd just scored the game's final touchdown Saturday and given his team all the points it would need to beat UTEP and reach next week's Conference USA Championship game.
But it wasn't until he reached the sideline and got a word from equipment manager Robert Jones that UCF junior tailback Kevin Smith finally revealed a smile brighter than the flashing 36-20 Bright House Networks Stadium scoreboard.
"I told you that you'd get it," Jones said as he gave a congratulatory slap to Smith's shoulder pads.
But it wasn't until he reached the sideline and got a word from equipment manager Robert Jones that UCF junior tailback Kevin Smith finally revealed a smile brighter than the flashing 36-20 Bright House Networks Stadium scoreboard.
"I told you that you'd get it," Jones said as he gave a congratulatory slap to Smith's shoulder pads.
Division title awaits for UCF
About a month and a half ago, UCF Coach George O'Leary was about to end practice when he decided his team needed a little more conditioning.
Directing the entire Knights roster to line up across the sideline, he decided he'd have his team run by classes.
It was no sooner than he'd yelled out "seniors" that he first really got his first true visual confirmation of what he already noted on paper before the season.
Directing the entire Knights roster to line up across the sideline, he decided he'd have his team run by classes.
It was no sooner than he'd yelled out "seniors" that he first really got his first true visual confirmation of what he already noted on paper before the season.
Another upset bid falls short for UCF
NO. 18 KANSAS STATE 73, UCF 71, OT
The Knights rally to force overtime but miss their chance to beat a ranked team
It almost was a signature win.
The kind of win that can change a season and impress NCAA Tournament selection committees.
Instead, the UCF Knights had to settle for a moral victory.
The kind of win that can change a season and impress NCAA Tournament selection committees.
Instead, the UCF Knights had to settle for a moral victory.
The Knights (2-2) had No. 18 Kansas State (4-1) on the ropes but couldn't pull off the upset. The Wildcats escaped with a 73-71 win in overtime during the second round of the Old Spice Classic at Disney Friday night.
"To state the obvious, we're very disappointed," UCF guard Mike O'Donnell said.
"To state the obvious, we're very disappointed," UCF guard Mike O'Donnell said.
Sentinel
Knights can't overcome Wildcats
VILLANOVA 76, UCF 68
It was a make-or-break moment.
The UCF Knights were crumbling under heavy pressure heaped on by No. 20 Villanova.
Instead of folding, the Knights decided it was time to give the Wildcats a taste of their own medicine.
The UCF Knights were crumbling under heavy pressure heaped on by No. 20 Villanova.
Instead of folding, the Knights decided it was time to give the Wildcats a taste of their own medicine.
"We looked at each other at the half and decided it was time to get back to playing UCF basketball," Knights guard Mike O'Donnell said. "This was a big game for us. You'd always rather win these games, but it's more important you prove you can fight."
Sentinel
Sentinel
Thursday, November 22, 2007
Happy Thanksgiving!
Hope you have a great Thanksgiving! Go see the Knights hoops team @ Disney vs Villanova or watch them on ESPN2.
Smith must stay in line to be in lineup
Click on the pic to go to the link
UCF worked out in shorts for just the second time in over a month and a half as they went inside Nicholson Field House Wednesday.
Junior TB Phillip Smith got a few more snaps than usual with the offense and is expected to be in the game plan for Saturday's finale against UTEP.
Coach George O'Leary said the plan has been to integrate Smith into the lineup more, though the charge to stay there is on him.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
UTEP offense poses problems
http://www.elpasotimes.com/sports/ci_7529999
UCF knows it has its hands full with Miners
Central Florida head coach George O'Leary is impressed by what he has seen from the Miner offense.
"I think when you look at them on film, I think they have a lot of really good athletes," O'Leary said. "They are a spread offense that is pretty much like everyone else. (They) open it up. They isolate you one-on-one on the field and their running back (Marcus Thomas) is good. There are four or five kids that will be NFL guys off that football team. (Mike Price) has some talent there.
"Defensively, we have to make sure that we make plays. We cannot be on the field as long as we have been. I think that we are stingy in giving up points at times, but there are just not enough three and outs. We have to make plays and create more situations, let your athletes run."
Bret Bloomquist / El Paso Times
UCF Knights set for national spotlight
Click on pic to go link
UCF is hoping to use the Old Spice Classic to create buzz about its basketball program.
UCF Coach Kirk Speraw has never liked to think too far ahead about the future of his basketball team.
Last season when the Knights (2-0) posted a surprise second-place finish in Conference USA, Speraw shied away from all questions that dealt with how that one season could elevate his program.
He's also refused to do it this week, though it's hard to deny that UCF's invitation to compete in this weekend's Old Spice Classic at Disney Wide World of Sports might say something about how the Knights are inching up in the college hoops world.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Iraq war veteran and UCF LB Robenson Jean fought for his country -- and for a chance to play college football
Click on pic to go to link
In a quiet apartment far away from the crashes, chaos and uncertainty of war, UCF senior Robenson Jean sits on his couch, clicking buttons on his laptop and remembering.
He's dressed casually in flip-flops, jeans and a black T-shirt. He resembles any other college student relaxing after a day of classes, except for the worn camouflage jacket he wears.
His eyes scan across the galleries of photos on the screen. They reveal snapshots of desert, debris and guys -- himself included -- holding machine guns.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
UCF poses big threat to Miners in season finale
Conference USA tells us "Competition lives here," but evidently the Heisman race doesn't.
The obscurity of mid-major football is the only reason Central Florida running back Kevin Smith isn't at the front of it,because on the field, from snap to whistle, he's playing the game as well right now as it can be played.
"I think he has gotten better each week, each year," coach George O'Leary said of his star junior, who is first in the nation in scoring and second in rushing. "I think when he was a freshman, he was a kid that just tried to get the ball and get to the line of scrimmage as quickly as he could.
"As a sophomore, I think he started to see linemen and started to read (defenses). Now, I think he is like most good backs that carry the ball. They make the cut in the hole and they read the linebackers, the secondary level guys, because those are the guys that ultimately make the tackles.
"I think that is where he has improved himself."
Bret Bloomquist / El Paso Times
Consistency a key for UTEP offense
While UTEP has struggled on defense, it's been solid on offense this year, and that's reflected by the starting lineups UTEP has used.
Only 14 different players have started on offense, a list that includes Donald Buckram starting the opener in place of a suspended Marcus Thomas, and Tufick Shadrawy earning his first start this past week in place of an injured Lorne Sam.
The other extra starter is Fred Rouse, who has been on the field for the first snap when UTEP has gone with a four-receiver set.
Bret Bloomquist / El Paso Times
Classy Smith not bothered by Doak snub
The three finalists for the Joke, er, Doak Walker Award were announced this week.
And Kevin Smith wasn't one of them.
And do you want to know the best part about it?
And Kevin Smith wasn't one of them.
And do you want to know the best part about it?
He doesn't really care.
"Right now, we're trying to advance to the conference championship game," says Smith, the UCF junior who Saturday will likely become the first runner in state history to surpass the 2,000-yard mark in a single season. "That's what I'm about right now. You don't play football for awards. You play for your team
"For them to mention me for the award is an accomplishment in itself. I congratulate those who [were the three finalists] for the Doak Walker Award."
Mike Bianchi; Orlando Sentinel
Mike Bianchi; Orlando Sentinel
Chance to play for C-USA title is in UCF football team's hands
The biggest week to date in UCF's 2007 season has started. And thoughts of championships are definitely on the minds of the Knights' players.
Especially with the chance to wrap up Conference USA's East Division against UTEP in the confines of Bright House Networks Stadium.
"I don't think there's a better position," said junior CB Johnell Neal. "This is what we've fought for all year, to be in this spot. To play for a championship."
Especially with the chance to wrap up Conference USA's East Division against UTEP in the confines of Bright House Networks Stadium.
"I don't think there's a better position," said junior CB Johnell Neal. "This is what we've fought for all year, to be in this spot. To play for a championship."
Junior TB Kevin Smith, one of the catalysts in the Knights' current five-game winning streak, echoed his teammate's sentiments.
"This is what we've been working for since the summer," he said. "Sweating. Running on the track. Pushing weights. Lifting each other's spirits up when times get hard. So I think this is the position we want to be in right here."
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Tough UCF awaits UTEP Miners
The unfortunate thing to understand about UTEP's 2007 season is that, as improbable as this sounds, the 56-30 loss to a struggling Southern Mississippi may not be rock bottom.
After all, their total defense rating still puts them ahead of North Texas and Minnesota and scoring leader Kevin Smith of UCF awaits, looking to move from second to first in the national rushing race.
So yes, the Miners may have gone crashing through the basement floor when they gave up touchdowns on six consecutive Golden Eagle possessions to start the second half, but there is still a fiery pit below them.
"We're not throwing in the towel, we're not giving up," said safety Braxton Amy, who did have an interception Saturday. "We're playing for pride. We don't want to be losers. ... I feel good about our team, we're just struggling to get a win. I know we're a great team, we have a great upside, we're just not winning.
Bret Bloomquist / El Paso Times
UTEP will need a bigupset to end losing skid
UCF is an 18-point favorite over UTEP, and the Miners will need a huge upset to avoid extending a long, bad streak.
Namely, the Miners haven't won the last game of their season since beating Utah 55-44 on Nov. 29, 1986.
As a frame of reference, that victory came a week after Mike Tyson won his first world boxing title.
Bret Bloomquist / El Paso Times
Miners to play for pride Saturday
http://www.elpasotimes.com/minersmania/ci_7511664
The Mike Price era reaches its 36th game Saturday at Central Florida, and with it comes new ground.
For the first time in three seasons, UTEP enters a game with no shot at the postseason. When the game ends Saturday afternoon, the Miners are done.
"Every time we've played for a bowl game," Price said. "This is the first time we've played for pride only. This is something unusual.
"This is my last game with these guys and I'm going to make it good. We're going to have a positive mental attitude and do everything we can to win.
"We're flying to Orlando, their beautiful new stadium against one of the best teams in the conference. We want to be able to compete against these types of teams."
Bret Bloomquist / El Paso Times
RB Smith doesn't make cut for award
UCF junior TB Kevin Smith has posted one of the best offensive seasons in school history, but his efforts for now will be without national-award hardware this season.
A week after becoming the first UCF player to be named a semifinalist for the Doak Walker Award, presented to nation's top running back, Smith missed the finalist cut announced Monday.
Michigan's Mike Hart, Arkansas' Darren McFadden and Rutgers' Ray Rice all made the final cut.
A week after becoming the first UCF player to be named a semifinalist for the Doak Walker Award, presented to nation's top running back, Smith missed the finalist cut announced Monday.
Michigan's Mike Hart, Arkansas' Darren McFadden and Rutgers' Ray Rice all made the final cut.
But Smith, just 55 yards away from the first 2,000-yard season in state history, had a tough road to making the final cut for the Doak.
Only three players from non-major conferences have ever won the award.
Monday, November 19, 2007
24K needs your help!
Rank 'Em: Doak Walker Award
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SMU can't contain UCF back
UNIVERSITY PARK – Central Florida junior running back Kevin Smith is only 55 yards away from becoming the first collegiate player in Florida to rush for 2,000 yards in a season.
The 6-1, 211-pound back from Miami didn't even play in the second half Saturday, but still gained 177 yards and scored two touchdowns. It was his 10th 100-yard game of the season.
Smith has 24 rushing touchdowns, breaking the previous Conference USA record held by Memphis' DeAngelo Williams (22). Smith's 25 total touchdowns broke Williams' C-USA mark of 23.
Smith has 4,057 career yards.
KATE HAIROPOULOS / The Dallas Morning News
SMU AD Orsini's past to collide with present
Steve Orsini watched from Arkansas State's press box as Central Florida, his former school, gave powerhouse Texas trouble on national television. It was Sept. 15, and a large, delighted crowd turned out to celebrate the opening of UCF's on-campus Bright House Networks Stadium, a project Orsini helped make happen.
But when the SMU athletic director turned from the TV to the field, the contrast couldn't have been more obvious.
His current school fell, 45-28, on a miserable night in Jonesboro, Ark. It was the start of the Mustangs' ongoing, eight-game losing streak and would lead to the end of Phil Bennett's tenure as coach.
One couldn't help but wonder what was going through Orsini's mind.
KATE HAIROPOULOS; The Dallas Morning News
UCF eager for shot at C-USA East title
Back in August when UCF opened practice for the 2007 season, its goal was spoken, written and understood by all.
Retooled, refocused and reinvented in the offseason, the Knights wanted to reclaim the Conference USA East Division title and play in the league title game.
But while the goal was always clear, coming off a 4-8 season the dream was admittedly a bit hard to visualize three months ago.
Retooled, refocused and reinvented in the offseason, the Knights wanted to reclaim the Conference USA East Division title and play in the league title game.
But while the goal was always clear, coming off a 4-8 season the dream was admittedly a bit hard to visualize three months ago.
With one week play it its regular season, however, what once only existed as preseason motivation now has a date, time and setting.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
O'Leary has composed his very own fight song
UCF, charge onto the field; With our spirit we'll never yield."
- University of Central Florida fight song
This is not exactly "Shake down the thunder from the sky!" but it will do. Everything about Central Florida will do just fine for George O'Leary, who has turned around another football program.
- University of Central Florida fight song
This is not exactly "Shake down the thunder from the sky!" but it will do. Everything about Central Florida will do just fine for George O'Leary, who has turned around another football program.
He has opened a 45,000- seat stadium and filled it. He has clinched another bowl game. His players graduate. He has taken another step further from yesterday.
Mark Herrmann : Newsday.com
Strong first half keys UCF's win against SMU
DALLAS - Taking one final peek at the 49-20 scoreboard, UCF Coach George O'Leary slipped off his headset and cupped it at his side, finally satisfied that his Knights had done enough to get past SMU on Saturday.
His team jumping and smiling around him as they trotted toward the locker room tunnel, he stopped briefly to accept the congratulating hand of UCF Athletic Director Keith Tribble.
O'Leary grinned as Tribble whispered something in his ear, but didn't end the embrace until offering him a one-liner back at Tribble that he'd echo to his team a few minutes later.
His team jumping and smiling around him as they trotted toward the locker room tunnel, he stopped briefly to accept the congratulating hand of UCF Athletic Director Keith Tribble.
O'Leary grinned as Tribble whispered something in his ear, but didn't end the embrace until offering him a one-liner back at Tribble that he'd echo to his team a few minutes later.
"We got one more to go," he said.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
All eyes on Smith as he narrows in on RB award
It's not that UCF TB Kevin Smith didn't have an audience before Saturday's trip to SMU.
But there were a few pairs of eyes in Gerald J. Ford Stadium that the Knights' junior standout might not have minded paying a little extra attention to him.
Members of the Guaranty Bank SMU Forum, the organization in charge of presenting the Doak Walker Award to the nation's top running back, were in attendance at Saturday's game.
But there were a few pairs of eyes in Gerald J. Ford Stadium that the Knights' junior standout might not have minded paying a little extra attention to him.
Members of the Guaranty Bank SMU Forum, the organization in charge of presenting the Doak Walker Award to the nation's top running back, were in attendance at Saturday's game.
The Dallas-based group selected Smith as one of 10 semi-finalists for the award last week and will narrow that list to three finalists Monday. The winner will be announced on Dec. 6.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Texas native plays well in front of family
DALLAS - He wasn't in his hometown, but he was at home.
The only player on UCF's roster from Texas, Knights' sophomore Phillip Smith, walked into SMU's Gerald J. Ford Stadium wanting to leave with a memory.
Though not so much for him as it was for someone else.
The only player on UCF's roster from Texas, Knights' sophomore Phillip Smith, walked into SMU's Gerald J. Ford Stadium wanting to leave with a memory.
Though not so much for him as it was for someone else.
"I just went out there with the mind-set that I was gonna play good," said Smith, a native of nearby Mansfield. "I had family in the crowd. I wanted to play good for my dad."
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
UCF can't afford letdown
A loss to SMU would undo the Knights' recent efforts to win the C-USA East title
DALLAS - This is one of those nervous times for UCF's football team.
Like that moment a few seconds before picking your date up for the prom or standing at the altar before a wedding.
It's very simple. Win their final two games of the regular season and the Knights will have their second Conference USA East Division championship in three years. But slip against 1-9 SMU today or UTEP at home next week and everything about their four-game winning streak will be all for nothing.
Like that moment a few seconds before picking your date up for the prom or standing at the altar before a wedding.
It's very simple. Win their final two games of the regular season and the Knights will have their second Conference USA East Division championship in three years. But slip against 1-9 SMU today or UTEP at home next week and everything about their four-game winning streak will be all for nothing.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
UCF Knights capture 2nd win at new arena
UCF sets a school attendance record in a 78-64 win over visiting Norfolk State.
UCF used a hustling defense and some clutch free-throw shooting to hold off Norfolk State 78-64 in front of a school record 5,277 at the new UCF Arena Friday night.
A 13-2 run in the second half run by the Spartans (1-2) shrank a 20-point Knights lead to nine and caused some tension in what looked like a blowout much of the night.
The Knights (2-0) were 6 of 16 from the free-throw line and only up by nine with 5:46 left when Kenrick Zondervan missed the front end of a 1-and-1. A lane violation by the Spartans gave the forward a second chance, which paid off for the Knights as he proceeded to hit two free throws.
A 13-2 run in the second half run by the Spartans (1-2) shrank a 20-point Knights lead to nine and caused some tension in what looked like a blowout much of the night.
The Knights (2-0) were 6 of 16 from the free-throw line and only up by nine with 5:46 left when Kenrick Zondervan missed the front end of a 1-and-1. A lane violation by the Spartans gave the forward a second chance, which paid off for the Knights as he proceeded to hit two free throws.
Friday, November 16, 2007
Norfolk St vs UCF
Norfolk St is coming to UCF to play us in the The Dungeon; Part Deaux.
Be there: 7:00 pm at the new UCF Arena Friday Knight!
UCF foe SMU resilient despite its 1-9 record
A week after giving up nearly 350 yards of total offense to one of Conference USA's worst offenses, UCF's defense will try to redeem itself against a slightly better one at SMU.
The Mustangs have definitely had their struggles this season, but have lost their six previous games by an average of just eight points. Two of those setbacks came in overtime and one, their lost to Rice last week, was by way of a last-second field goal.
Coach Phil Bennett said he is most proud that this team has kept fighting this season, despite its 1-9 record.
The Mustangs have definitely had their struggles this season, but have lost their six previous games by an average of just eight points. Two of those setbacks came in overtime and one, their lost to Rice last week, was by way of a last-second field goal.
Coach Phil Bennett said he is most proud that this team has kept fighting this season, despite its 1-9 record.
"One thing that you can say is that we haven't quit," Bennett said. "We have been more than resilient."
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Fired Bennett wants to finish strong
While Saturday is the setup game to what the Knights' hope will be their Conference USA East Division-clinching home finale next week against UTEP, it will have a much different meaning for SMU Coach Phil Bennett.
Saturday marks the final home game of Bennett's tenure as the Mustangs coach after he was fired last month. Though Bennett will be looking elsewhere for employment after SMU's season finale at Memphis, he still wants to finish the 2007 season strong.
"I don't have time to be sentimental," Bennett said at his weekly news conference. "I'm pretty black and white. The decision has been made and we've just got to go out and play. We want to do more than compete, we want to win."
Saturday marks the final home game of Bennett's tenure as the Mustangs coach after he was fired last month. Though Bennett will be looking elsewhere for employment after SMU's season finale at Memphis, he still wants to finish the 2007 season strong.
"I don't have time to be sentimental," Bennett said at his weekly news conference. "I'm pretty black and white. The decision has been made and we've just got to go out and play. We want to do more than compete, we want to win."
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
UCF's Kevin Smith: I'll be back
Knights star wants to play as senior
ORLANDO - The talk that started in hushed tones when University of Central Florida tailback Kevin Smith opened the season with a bang has morphed into a full-fledged roar with records falling seemingly every week.
Will Smith, the nation's
second-leading rusher at 176.8 yards per game and top individual scorer with 23 touchdowns, leave UCF following this season and opt for the riches of the NFL?
Fresh off a staggering 320-yard, four-TD performance against Alabama-Birmingham, Smith is flattered by the feelings that his off-the-charts combination of speed and power are ready for the professional ranks. But the junior back said Wednesday he has no plans to leave the Knights anytime soon.
John Denton, Florida Today
After helping build UCF's sports programs, Orsini does same at SMU
There just might be something special about the coffee that SMU Athletic Director Steve Orsini drinks.
Or maybe it just seems that way because no matter where he seems to end up as an administrator, his tasks inevitably wind up being the same.
Orsini's past and present will go heads up this weekend in Dallas as SMU hosts UCF for the first time. It's a huge game for the Knights as they look to close out their second Conference USA East Division crown, but it's also Orsini's first matchup against his former school.
Or maybe it just seems that way because no matter where he seems to end up as an administrator, his tasks inevitably wind up being the same.
Orsini's past and present will go heads up this weekend in Dallas as SMU hosts UCF for the first time. It's a huge game for the Knights as they look to close out their second Conference USA East Division crown, but it's also Orsini's first matchup against his former school.
He's been the AD at SMU for about a year-and-a-half now. But as he begins to search for a new football coach following the dismissal of Phil Bennett, he said this week that the tasks he's facing in Dallas are very similar to the ones he faced at his old job at UCF.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Vote for UCF and McKenzie
Click on McKenzie to vote for UCF
CBSSportsline.com College Cheerleader of the Week: Week 11 is UCF's McKenzie Huebner.
She is a KnightMoves dancer, is attractive and needs your vote! Click on the pic to go to vote for UCF!
Go Knights!
UCF FOOTBALL 2-4-1 FOR THE UTEP GAME
From UCF:
This weekend the team plays at SMU and then the final home game on November 24th versus UTEP at Bright House Networks Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 2PM.
A limited number of tickets to the season finale versus UTEP are now available, courtesy of Coke Zero. Order two tickets and pay only $35!!! As a special bonus, Coke Zero will give away UCF seat cushions at their booth located in IOA Plaza on gameday.
Getting your tickets is as easy as - 5 simple steps:
1. Visit http://webservices.cstv.com/wsemail/?arg=488081.SEETvqUGFogCE9Be and click on the UTEP bar.
1. Visit http://webservices.cstv.com/wsemail/?arg=488081.SEETvqUGFogCE9Be and click on the UTEP bar.
2. Enter Promotions and Special offer code: COKE
3. Order your tickets (you must purchase in multiples of two).
4. Print your tickets at home or work
5. Arrive early with your friends and family or co-workers and clients to tailgate and cheer for the Knights on November 24th
Don't miss out on UCF football history!!!
Special group packages of 20 or more tickets also are available through the UCF ticket office at 407-823-1000.
UCF @ SMU
ESPN.com Preview
Harmon Forecast: UCF 40- SMU- 25
Mr Knightman's XBOX 360 Sim: SMU-27- UCF 0
Knights report: Strategy and personnel
Knights report: Inside slant
Knights report: Notes, quotes
UCF football team wants to avoid another letdown
It got its scare against UAB Saturday, and now that UCF is in the Conference USA East Division driver's seat with two games left, the Knights don't want to fall into the same trap this week at SMU.
"I think it was clear as a team that we didn't come out and play with the intensity that we should have or really give them the respect that they deserve as far as going out and playing a football game," said senior QB Kyle Israel. "I don't think it takes anybody saying anything. It's known and it showed in practice [Tuesday]."
While that message seems to have hit home on the offensive side of the ball, the Knights' defense may need an extra day to get the message. Coach George O'Leary sent the defense off the field midway through practice Tuesday and they didn't return.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
"I think it was clear as a team that we didn't come out and play with the intensity that we should have or really give them the respect that they deserve as far as going out and playing a football game," said senior QB Kyle Israel. "I don't think it takes anybody saying anything. It's known and it showed in practice [Tuesday]."
While that message seems to have hit home on the offensive side of the ball, the Knights' defense may need an extra day to get the message. Coach George O'Leary sent the defense off the field midway through practice Tuesday and they didn't return.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Tuesday, November 13, 2007
UCF's Smith named semi-finalist for running back award
UCF junior tailback Kevin Smith is one of three players from Conference USA that were named semi-finalists today for the Doak Walker Award, given to the nation's top college running back.
Smith, who is coming off a career-high 320-yard game at UAB and is ranked second in Division I-A in rushing (176.8 yard per game) and has a UCF-record 1,768 yards this season, is one of 10 total semi-finalists for the award.
He joins Tulane's Matt Forte and Houston's Anthony Aldridge from C-USA on the list. The other semifinalists are Jamaal Charles of Texas, Mike Hart of Michigan, Felix Jones of Arkansas, Darren McFadden of Arkansas, Rashard Mendenhall of Illinois, Ray Rice of Rutgers and Jonathan Stewart of Oregon.
Smith, who is coming off a career-high 320-yard game at UAB and is ranked second in Division I-A in rushing (176.8 yard per game) and has a UCF-record 1,768 yards this season, is one of 10 total semi-finalists for the award.
He joins Tulane's Matt Forte and Houston's Anthony Aldridge from C-USA on the list. The other semifinalists are Jamaal Charles of Texas, Mike Hart of Michigan, Felix Jones of Arkansas, Darren McFadden of Arkansas, Rashard Mendenhall of Illinois, Ray Rice of Rutgers and Jonathan Stewart of Oregon.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Smith earns player of week honors
The accolades keep raining down on UCF junior TB Kevin Smith.
Smith was named co-Conference USA player of the week Monday, his third such honor this season. No player has earned he weekly award three times in a single season since East Carolina's James Pinkney in 2005.
Smith shared the honor this week with Memphis QB Martin Hankins, who threw for 396 yards and four scores in a comeback win over Southern Mississippi.
Smith was named co-Conference USA player of the week Monday, his third such honor this season. No player has earned he weekly award three times in a single season since East Carolina's James Pinkney in 2005.
Smith shared the honor this week with Memphis QB Martin Hankins, who threw for 396 yards and four scores in a comeback win over Southern Mississippi.
Smith broke the UCF single-game rushing record with 320 yards in the Knights' 45-31 win over UAB Saturday. The total also helped him break the school single-season rushing mark formerly held by Marquette Smith. Kevin has 1,768 yards. The previous record was 1,511.
He also owns the top single-season rushing record in Florida college football history, passing former Miami back Willis McGahee (1,753 in 2002). And his four rushing touchdowns against the Blazers tied a program single-game record and increased his season touchdown total to 23, which leads Division I-A.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
UCF's Smith blazing new ground on the ground
As he picked through his locker, a quick shower having taken care of any hint of debris from his 320-yard, four-touchdown performance against UAB Saturday night, UCF junior tailback Kevin Smith was feeling proud, protected and generous.
"It means I owe my offensive line a lot of money," Smith said when asked about what made his career-night possible in UCF's 45-31 victory.
He quickly corrected himself.
"It means I owe my offensive line a lot of money," Smith said when asked about what made his career-night possible in UCF's 45-31 victory.
He quickly corrected himself.
"I mean a lot of food, when I get enough money. When I get enough money I'm going to take those boys to Red Lobster or something. I'm saving up now so I can take those boys to Red Lobster."
Call it a Freudian slip.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Call it a Freudian slip.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Monday, November 12, 2007
Pictures and Videos courtesy of UCFPride.com
Click on the pic to go to his site.
UCFJay posted some great stuff from the UCF/Nevada game. Check it out.
Check out UCFPride.com- He has some great stuff. A diehard Knight fan!
UCF breaks in new arena with win
Click on the pic to go to the link
ORLANDO -- Prior to its season-opener against Nevada, the UCF basketball team was serenaded by Five For Fighting's "History Starts Now."
The Knights made a little history of their own against the Wolfpack. UCF opened its new 10,000-seat arena Sunday with a 63-60 victory over a team considered by many as a mid-major on the rise in Division I college basketball.
The game was played in front of UCF's second-largest crowd in history, 4,668. The new arena and the atmosphere, however, were enough to put the Knights over the top Sunday.
"I'm so thrilled just to be a part of this university and to be able to play in this great new arena," said UCF guard Dave Noel, who finished with 14 points, nine rebounds and three assists. "There's so much happening here at UCF right now, and to be able to come out our first game and beat a team like this, it's incredible. Hopefully, this will get us started and we will be able to make history this year."
Shawn Akers: Daytona Beach News Journal
UCF opens new arena with win over Nevada
Click on the pic to go to the link
ORLANDO - Dave Noel led three UCF players in double figures with 14 points as UCF christened its new 10,000-seat arena with a season-opening 63-60 victory over Nevada on Sunday afternoon.
Nevada nearly overcame an 11-point, second-half deficit. After UCF's Chip Cartwright missed a 1-and-1 free-throw situation with 7 seconds remaining, Marcelus Kemp's 3-point attempt at the buzzer banged off the rim to preserve the Knights' victory.
UCF shot only 38 percent from the floor, but had 11 steals. The Knights had several chances to put the game away in the final minute, but turned the ball over twice. Mike O'Donnell missed a 1-and-1 with UCF ahead 63-58 with 17 seconds left.
AP; Florida Today
Knights gearing up for championship run at SMU
Click on 24K helmet sticker to read more
With 2 regular-season games left, an excited team looks to stay on top of its game.
A week ago, UCF was enjoying a muted celebration.
The Knights had just become bowl eligible but were trying to temper their joy as they chased, hoped and dreamed about slipping their way into a shot for the Conference USA title.
Seven days later, the Knights begin their final 14 days of the regular season with everything they wanted tucked away tightly in their pocket.
The Knights had just become bowl eligible but were trying to temper their joy as they chased, hoped and dreamed about slipping their way into a shot for the Conference USA title.
Seven days later, the Knights begin their final 14 days of the regular season with everything they wanted tucked away tightly in their pocket.
UCF's 45-31 win over a feisty UAB Saturday night, coupled with East Carolina's loss to Marshall, has put it in the East Division top spot with two games to go. If the Knights win their final two games of the season, it looks like a reset of the inaugural C-USA title game in 2005 against Tulsa.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Nevada loses opener to Central Florida
Click on the pic to go to the link
ORLANDO, Fla. — Mark Fox tried to warn everyone about how much of a problem inexperience would be for his team. That inexperience showed for 40 minutes.
Maybe it was only 39 minutes, as an improbable comeback attempt in the last 60 seconds fell just short. When Nevada guard Marcelus Kemp’s 21-foot, 3-point attempt hit the rim and bounced away just before the buzzer, Central Florida survived for a 63-60 win Sunday afternoon.
“I think our inexperience showed in abundance,” Fox said. “We made a lot of mental errors that certainly cost us. You have to take every experience you can and turn it into a positive, learn everything from it. We certainly have a lot to learn from in this game.”
STEVE SNEDDON; RENO GAZETTE-JOURNAL
New home suits Knights
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UCF christens its new on-campus arena by holding on for a season-opening win.
Minutes before the inaugural men's basketball game at the new UCF Arena, a montage played on the video screen showing clips of last year's UCF team and echoing the statement "History starts now."
It was a fitting slogan for the Knights' performance on Sunday.
Debuting new uniforms in a new venue, UCF knocked off Nevada 63-60 in front of 4,668 fans at the new UCF Arena.
It was a fitting slogan for the Knights' performance on Sunday.
Debuting new uniforms in a new venue, UCF knocked off Nevada 63-60 in front of 4,668 fans at the new UCF Arena.
It was a landmark win for the Knights, beating a Nevada team that went 29-5 last season and has been to four consecutive NCAA Tournaments.
Another tough loss for Blazers
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The final margin of defeat wasn't nearly as lopsided on Saturday night as it was the past three weeks for the UAB football team.
But the UAB locker room at Legion Field was just as quiet following Saturday night's 45-31 loss to visiting UCF as it was the past three weeks.
And the disappointment ran just as deep as it did during a stretch when the Blazers lost by an average of nearly 35 points a game
Ultimately a loss is a loss and this one, played in front of a crowd of 12,621, dropped the Blazers to 2-8 overall and 1-5 in C-USA play. UCF improved to 7-3 overall and 5-1 in conference play. The Knights, who had 506 yards on 72 plays, also took over the driver's seat in the C-USA East Division with two games left thanks to the win over the Blazers and East Carolina's loss to Marshall.
But the win was far from easy for the Knights. In fact, the only time the game was easy for UCF on Saturday night was when running back Kevin Smith had his hands on the ball. Smith, a 6-foot-1, 211-pound junior, carried the ball 41 times for a career-high 320 yards.
Steve Irvine: Birmingham News
Smith sets rushing records as UCF defeats UAB 45-31
Click on the pic to go to the link
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) — Kevin Smith carried 41 times for 320 yards and four touchdowns to lead Central Florida to a 45-31 victory over UAB Saturday night.
Smith, a junior from Miami, shattered his previous career high of 223 yards, set earlier this season against Louisiana-Lafayette. He had scoring runs of 2, 3, 8 and 41 yards and set a single game school rushing record.
Smith broke UCF's single season rushing record with a 20-yard run in the first quarter.
UCF (7-3, 5-3 CUSA) won its fourth game in a row. The Golden Knights claimed sole possession of first place in the east division of Conference USA with the help of Marshal's 26-7 victory over East Carolina.
AP
Knights seek boost from new venue
Click on the pic to go to the link
Fans won't be the only people who may need help navigating their surroundings when the doors are opened for UCF's first regular-season game in its new 10,000-seat arena today against Nevada.
He's had a few months to bond with it, but Knights senior guard Mike O'Donnell still kind of feels like a visitor when he goes through the doors and paces the halls.
"I still can't believe it's ours," O'Donnell said. "It kind of feels like an away game right now when I walk in."
He's had a few months to bond with it, but Knights senior guard Mike O'Donnell still kind of feels like a visitor when he goes through the doors and paces the halls.
"I still can't believe it's ours," O'Donnell said. "It kind of feels like an away game right now when I walk in."
The centerpiece at the entrance of UCF's new athletic village, the new arena flanks the Knights' football complex and Bright House Networks Stadium and is the hub between the nearby dorms and shops.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
UCF takes division lead as Smith sets rushing record
Click on the pic to go to the link
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - By the time UCF took the field to play Conference USA cellar-dweller UAB on Saturday night, it knew two things:
Win, and the Knights would be in the driver's seat of the league's East Division, with East Carolina's loss at Marshall. But lose, and they would be back where they were entering the week: having to depend on somebody else to get their shot at the conference title.
And though Saturday's game wasn't for that title, the Knights wound up needing a championship effort from their star to get a chance to sit in that chair.
Junior tailback Kevin Smith set a UCF single-game rushing record and tied the C-USA single-season touchdown mark with four scores as the Knights outlasted UAB 45-31 Saturday.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Knights control division with help from Marshall
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A week after getting manhandled by UCF 47-13 in Orlando, Marshall easily might have laid down against East Carolina on Saturday.
The Thundering Herd didn't have much at stake entering Saturday's game at 1-8 overall and 1-4 in Conference USA. But the Pirates (6-5, 5-2) needed back-to-back victories the final two weeks of the season to lock up the East Division crown.
Turns out Marshall liked playing the role of spoiler.
The Herd upset the Pirates 26-7 Saturday, which, coupled with a UCF victory against UAB on Saturday, moved the Knights into first place in the East. Now, with victories against Southern Methodist and UTEP during the next two weeks, UCF will play for the C-USA title on Dec. 1.
Kyle Hightower: OrlandoSentinel
UCF survives defensive letdown
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Knights get tough when it counts but still allow 168 rushing yards to the Blazers.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - The UAB Army ROTC received an unexpected workout Saturday night. The group does one pushup after each score for every point the Blazers have, which in recent weeks has meant no more than a dozen or so pushups per game.
But the Blazers made the group work up a sweat against UCF by scoring fives times and posting 31 points, more than they had managed in the three previous games combined.
The Knights still prevailed 45-31 thanks to a record-setting rushing performance by Kevin Smith and some timely big defensive plays in the second half. Still, there was a sense of frustration among the UCF defense after the game.
But the Blazers made the group work up a sweat against UCF by scoring fives times and posting 31 points, more than they had managed in the three previous games combined.
The Knights still prevailed 45-31 thanks to a record-setting rushing performance by Kevin Smith and some timely big defensive plays in the second half. Still, there was a sense of frustration among the UCF defense after the game.
Saturday, November 10, 2007
UCF @ UAB on CSTV
College Football News: UCF 40- UAB 13
Harmon Forecast: UCF 44- UAB 24
Knights report: Inside slant
Knights report: Notes, quotes
Knights report: Strategy and personnel
Odds: Fav: UCF; spread: 20 1/2
Mr Knightmans XBOX360 sim: UAB 29- UCF 27 OT
UAB Blazers develop `senioritis'
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The chance at a winning season is gone. So are bowl eligibility and the dreams of a senior class wanting to go out on top.
So what does the UAB football team have left to play for?
"We're playing for our seniors, we're playing for us, our teammates, our coaches," said junior wide receiver Sylvester Mencer. "We still can win more games than we won last year. If we finish this year out (successfully) that will be an improvement."
Steve Irvine: Birmingham News
UCF football team ready to keep rolling on road
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ORLANDO - Things didn't turn out too well for the University of Central Florida football team the last time it had to play consecutive games on the road.The Knights hope to avoid a repeat tonight when they travel to Birmingham, Ala., to face UAB in a Conference USA East Division matchup. Kickoff is set for7:30 p.m. at Legion Field.
UCF (6-3 overall, 4-1 Conference USA) carries a three-game winning streak into the contest, sandwiching home wins against Tulsa and Marshall around a road triumph at Southern Mississippi. However, the current good vibe was preceded by a rough two-game road patch that saw the Knights fall at East Carolina and the University of South Florida by a combined score of 116-50.
Meanwhile, the Blazers (2-7, 1-4) enter the contest on a three-game losing streak.
Florida Today
Knights may run it up on Blazers
Click on 24K to go to the link
UAB's weak defense offers a chance for Kevin Smith to pad stats -- or rest a bit.
BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - Throughout the week, UCF coaches and players have been saying all the safe things heading into tonight's matchup with UAB.
They have done the "one game at a time" sing-a-long so much that you could almost be convinced that the Knights were an underdog to the struggling Blazers (2-7, 1-4 Conference USA)
While keeping their focus is certainly important for the Knights in their chase of East Division leader East Carolina, chances are pretty good that the final score may not be the most interesting story line of the evening.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Friday, November 09, 2007
Filling arena is tougher than stadium at UCF
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You can't blame Kirk Speraw for wishing.
He's seen what a new stadium has done for the football program at UCF.
He's seen how it has made alumni want to come back to campus and students want to stay there.
He's seen what a new stadium has done for the football program at UCF.
He's seen how it has made alumni want to come back to campus and students want to stay there.
He's seen the buzz it has caused and the crowds it's created.
And so naturally he hopes the new arena will have a similar impact when his basketball Knights open their season Sunday against a highly regarded Nevada team that has been to the NCAA Tournament in each of the past four seasons.
"I don't know if we'll get one, but I'd like to see a sellout," Speraw says. "This is the first game in the new arena, and we've got a team coming in that has been in the Top 25 for the last four years and has a first-round NBA draft possibility. I'm not sure why it wouldn't be a sellout."
Mike Bianchi: Orlando Sentinel
Mike Bianchi: Orlando Sentinel
O'Leary makes the choice to go young
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Last year he did it out of necessity. This season, however, UCF Coach George O'Leary has played a decent amount of redshirt and true freshmen by choice.
Going into their 10th game of the year against UAB Saturday, 10 redshirt and true freshmen have started at least one game in 2007. WR Kamar Aiken and P Blake Clingan each has started eight games this season, DE Bruce Miller made a big impact in his six starts and LB Derrick Hallman has done the same with five.
O'Leary said that though their classification might be listed as freshmen, it evaporates once they start playing.
Going into their 10th game of the year against UAB Saturday, 10 redshirt and true freshmen have started at least one game in 2007. WR Kamar Aiken and P Blake Clingan each has started eight games this season, DE Bruce Miller made a big impact in his six starts and LB Derrick Hallman has done the same with five.
O'Leary said that though their classification might be listed as freshmen, it evaporates once they start playing.
"I hate using that term young because once they play, they are not young anymore," he said.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Knights' freshman receivers class catching on fast
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In a way, they are all just looking for the "good."
Take a listen to about any two or three-minute stretch during a UCF practice, and you'll hear receivers' coach David Kelly throwing the four-letter word out in back-to-back rhythmic spurts.
After a decent catch: "Good, good." A nice block: "Good, good."
Take a listen to about any two or three-minute stretch during a UCF practice, and you'll hear receivers' coach David Kelly throwing the four-letter word out in back-to-back rhythmic spurts.
After a decent catch: "Good, good." A nice block: "Good, good."
It's just his thing.
"I hate using that term young because once they play, they are not young anymore," he said.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Forte, Smith have taken similar paths to stardom
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Back in July, Conference USA officials were scrambling to find a face for the league, a poster boy to plug their oft-overlooked product.
Four months later, they have a two-headed monster.
A league still lacking a dominant team is no longer starved for star power, especially at the running back position.
Tulane senior Matt Forte leads the nation in rushing yards (1,642) and rushing average (182.4). He's on pace to finish with the third-highest net total in NCAA history and the highest rushing average since TCU's LaDainian Tomlinson in 2000 (196.2 YPG).
A few stutter steps behind Forte is Central Florida's Kevin Smith, who ranks second nationally in both yards (1,448) and rushing average (160.9). Smith, who held the national rushing lead until Forte began putting up Xbox numbers, is the nation's scoring leader with 19 touchdowns (18 rushing, one receiving).
How good are these two?
Adam Rittenberg: ESPN
Knightro -- hit or miss?
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UCF merchandise sales are up, but the new logo is news to some students.
The University of Central Florida's athletic logo, which debuted six months ago, has met with mixed reaction.
At the university, most students and fans approve, though some say mascot Knightro needs a makeover. At Central Florida businesses, retailers are delighted with the increased sales and buzz.
"The excitement has just been wonderful -- it's a great add-on for us," said Charlotte Begley, owner of Gator/Seminole/Knight Fever at 3702 Edgewater Drive in Orlando.
Begley, who also sells University of Florida and Florida State University merchandise, said sales of UCF merchandise are up from last year.
Other retailers have experienced similar results, reports Collegiate Licensing Co., a trademark and marketing company in Atlanta.
"Demand for officially licensed merchandise is at an all-time high for the University of Central Florida," said Ander Nickell, CLC university services representative.
Opponents rush to beat Blazers
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The defensive work on the UAB football practice field centers around trying to stop the run.
Does this sound familiar?
No Division I-A team has defended the run worse than UAB thus far this season. UAB's defense is partly to blame for the lack of success. But the opposition also has plenty to do with the Blazers allowing 248.7 yards per game.
"We have played against some of the better running backs around the nation this whole year," said UAB cornerback Brandon Carlisle.
The numbers back up that statement. UAB has played against nine running backs currently listed in the top 100 in yards rushing per game, including top-ranked Matt Forte of Tulane. Six of the nine teams that UAB has faced are ranked in the top 50 in rushing offense.
Birmingham News
O'Leary increases offensive rotation
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Much like he did with the defensive line earlier this season, Knights Coach George O'Leary has increased the rotation on the offensive line.
After having senior Josh Sitton start three different positions over the course of three games, O'Leary finally seems satisfied.
The past two games he has started Sitton at right guard, 6-foot-7 freshman Jah Reid at right tackle and former walk-on sophomore Cliff McCray at left guard. Junior Patrick Brown has remained a fixture at left tackle.
After having senior Josh Sitton start three different positions over the course of three games, O'Leary finally seems satisfied.
The past two games he has started Sitton at right guard, 6-foot-7 freshman Jah Reid at right tackle and former walk-on sophomore Cliff McCray at left guard. Junior Patrick Brown has remained a fixture at left tackle.
O'Leary hasn't demoted LG Jeremy DeVane and RG L.J. Anderson but said rather that he wants to keep a steady rotation of 7-8 players.
"I think moving [Josh] Sitton in at guard has solidified the inside a little bit more," O'Leary said. "It has given the opportunity for Jah Reid to go in at tackle. The good thing is that there are only four seniors and only two on defense, so we are fairly young in a lot of areas.
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
Knights don't want to lose momentum
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Defensive line coach Jim Panagos was looking for more spirit. And he didn't see it all coming out of sophomore DT Travis Timmons.
" 'I know' is not good enough," Panagos barked in Timmons' direction during a drill Tuesday.
Not far behind, defensive coordinator John Skladany added a little more spice to his colleague's initial point.
"Stakes are too high. We've got to perform," he said.
Knights Coach George O'Leary refers to Tuesday and Wednesday as the team's biggest "work days" each game week.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Unfinished Business
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Motivated Knights shoot for NCAAs
Rice's Morris Almond created just enough distance from his defender to get his shot off. So, trailing by one with the season on the line, Almond hoisted up a 3-pointer from 27 feet away while falling to the floor.
He sunk it with 2.8 seconds left. It was elation for the Owls. It was dejection for the UCF Basketball team.
The Knights were the No. 2 seed headed into the 2007 Conference USA Championship Tournament, but they couldn't get out of the first round after the 53-51 defeat to the Owls on March 8. Almond's defender on that play was senior guard Dave Noel. He knows his team can use what happened in the past as motivation for the present.
"We feel like we could have went further, and we should of went further," Noel said. "But we took a loss early in the conference tournament. So from that, the way people were talking about us, it is definitely motivating us, so we're ready to go for this season and show people we should have gone further last year."
He sunk it with 2.8 seconds left. It was elation for the Owls. It was dejection for the UCF Basketball team.
The Knights were the No. 2 seed headed into the 2007 Conference USA Championship Tournament, but they couldn't get out of the first round after the 53-51 defeat to the Owls on March 8. Almond's defender on that play was senior guard Dave Noel. He knows his team can use what happened in the past as motivation for the present.
"We feel like we could have went further, and we should of went further," Noel said. "But we took a loss early in the conference tournament. So from that, the way people were talking about us, it is definitely motivating us, so we're ready to go for this season and show people we should have gone further last year."
Brian Murphy: Central Florida Future
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
C-USA may not fill all its bowl tie-ins
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The Conference USA bowl scenario is going to get interesting over the last three weeks of the regular season.
Entering the week, UCF is one of four C-USA teams now eligible for bowl berths.
While Knights Coach George O'Leary was safe not to say his club was definitely going bowling by just reaching the necessary six victories Saturday with its win over Marshall, there doesn't appear to be any scenario in which UCF will be left out of the postseason. Especially with UCF's remaining opponents boasting a combined 7-20 record.
Entering the week, UCF is one of four C-USA teams now eligible for bowl berths.
While Knights Coach George O'Leary was safe not to say his club was definitely going bowling by just reaching the necessary six victories Saturday with its win over Marshall, there doesn't appear to be any scenario in which UCF will be left out of the postseason. Especially with UCF's remaining opponents boasting a combined 7-20 record.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Monday, November 05, 2007
Speraw hopes for continued success in new UCF arena
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It was a rare and casual Kirk.
That's the best way to describe UCF Coach Kirk Speraw as he walked out onto the floor of the Knights' new 10,000-seat arena Saturday to coach his first exhibition game of the new season.
Speraw, usually only seen on the court clad in perfect suits and a Windsor-knotted tie, donned a more laid-back polo shirt and slacks.
It was fitting that at least for his team's first outing of the year, Speraw took one opportunity to grab a little extra comfort. After all, for the first time in his 15-year tenure, Speraw appears to enter a season with just basketball on his mind.
A new multi-year contract in hand and the full support of the administration behind him, Speraw begins the 2007-08 season hoping to plant seeds that will take the Knights' program to the next level.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
UCF eyes 9-3 finish this season
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Kevin Smith sat nodding his head as he said it, as if the rhythm of the words was being played over an internal soundtrack inside his thoughts.
The question was innocent enough, pondering whether the cadence of being bowl-eligible was resonating throughout UCF's locker room following its 47-13 win over Marshall Saturday.
"Bowl-eligible, bowl-eligible, bowl-eligible," Smith said with a smirk. "Can you hear it?"
The question was innocent enough, pondering whether the cadence of being bowl-eligible was resonating throughout UCF's locker room following its 47-13 win over Marshall Saturday.
"Bowl-eligible, bowl-eligible, bowl-eligible," Smith said with a smirk. "Can you hear it?"
The Knights' fan base certainly can. Three weeks after being embarrassed by rival USF, that same group is now preparing to clear calendar space for the school's second bowl trip.
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Sunday, November 04, 2007
UCF's Smith show keeps on rolling
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Three games left.
Four if you count the bowl.
That's how long you have to see one of the greatest college football players this state has ever produced.
Hey, people, if you haven't seen Kevin Smith in person, get your tickets now. He's a junior this year, and there's a good chance he'll never be a senior. Next season, the name of this movie may well be Mr. Smith Goes to Washington . . . or Dallas . . . or New England . . . or some other NFL team.
"I don't know [if he'll be back]," Coach George O'Leary said after Smith glided to 188 yards and guided the resurrected UCF Knights to a 47-13 homecoming victory over Marshall on Saturday. "After the season, we'll sit down with Kevin and his parents and Lloyd's of London."
Mike Bianchi: Orlando Sentinel
Knights meet goal with first penalty-free victory
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It's been the one sticking point and dream for the UCF coaching staff all season. And Saturday the Knights finally did it. UCF had zero penalties in its 47-13 win over Marshall.
The Knights had 53 penalties for 460 yards on the season.
"It's one of the goals we had for the team this year," UCF Coach George O'Leary said.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
With win over Marshall, UCF Knights picking up speed
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This is where the story of UCF's 2007 football season starts to get interesting.
There have been times during the first eight weeks this season that observers of the Knights couldn't begin to predict where the story they were watching was heading -- especially after humbling back-to-back midseason losses to East Carolina and South Florida.
But after Saturday's 47-13 thumping of Marshall, the Knights' third straight win, it looks to be headed in the direction of UCF's second bowl appearance in three seasons.
Kyle Israel: Orlando Sentinel
Herd-UCF rivalry still has potential
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ORLANDO, Fla. — Remember when Marshall vs. Central Florida was the “instant rivalry?”
I do, but the memory is becoming distant. It was a Friday night in 2002, when coach Mike Kruczek’s Golden Knights barged into the Mid-American Conference and barked about world domination. Step One was to knock off the MAC’s daddy, the Thundering Herd.
Time, conferences and stadiums have changed, some for better, some not. That depends on your perspective — and your school colors.
But I think fans of both schools can agree on one point — this game will be a real hoot if both programs would get their act together at the same time. It’s a rotten shame that there have been six games played between these teams, with only two of them compelling.
Doug Smock: WV Gazette
UCF thumps Marshall 47-13
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ORLANDO, Fla. — Marshall enjoyed its first trip to Central Florida’s new on-campus stadium as much as it liked its last trip to the Florida Citrus Bowl two years ago — which is to say, not very much.
And here’s all you need to know about the Thundering Herd’s first trip to Bright House Networks Stadium: Two of the few highlights involved punts downed at the UCF 1-yard line.
Of course, that merely gave the Knights a chance to drive 99 yards for a touchdown, and that happened once. The day belonged to UCF, which stampeded to a 47-13 homecoming victory before a stadium-record 46,103 fans on a cloud-free Florida afternoon.
“[We] got beat up front,” said Marshall coach Mark Snyder. “They kicked our butt up front in the trenches, on both sides of the ball.”
Doug Smock:WVGazette
UCF shuts down Thundering Herd, 47-13
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ORLANDO, Fla. -- Losing is frustrating enough without the redundancy factor.
Marshall University football's broken record played again Saturday, with a stagnant first quarter parlaying into defeat. The University of Central Florida led 10-0 after the opening period, extended the advantage to 24 points at halftime and cruised to a 47-13 Homecoming victory before a record Bright House Networks Stadium crowd of 46,103.
Marshall (1-8, 1-4 Conference USA) never threatened after allowing a short field on the opening kickoff. UCF (6-3, 4-1) quickly marched to the end zone and established control on a sun-splashed afternoon.
UCF tailback Kevin Smith, the nation's No. 2 rusher, was dominant on the perimeter and between the tackles, totaling 188 yards on 29 carries, including an 87-yard touchdown burst. Overall, the Knights outrushed Marshall, 269 yards to 88 yards.
ANTHONY HANSHEW; The Herald-Dispatch
Herd reverts to problems thought to be remedied
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ORLANDO, Fla. -- Losing as a 13.5-point road underdog doesn't exactly drive one to wring hands.
More subtle setbacks -- problems that appeared to have been deciphered -- again reared Saturday afternoon, leading to real frustration. Penalties in particular squelched any opportunity at momentum during Marshall University's football 47-13 loss to Central Florida.
Make no mistake, UCF was the superior team on this day, but Thundering Herd miscues helped the record crowd of 46,103 rock the Bright House Networks Stadium house (seriously, the press box moved when fans bounded up and down in unison).
Anthony Hanshew: Herald Dispatch
Saturday, November 03, 2007
O'Leary demanding UCF Knights focus
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He tightens curfew and extends practices to keep his team from overlooking Marshall.
Maybe it's because he's seen teams fall backward at this point in the season before.
But this week as UCF prepared for its homecoming game today against Marshall, Knights' Coach George O'Leary was adamant about keeping his team away from all the surrounding hoopla.
Stricter curfews. Longer practices. Any and everything he could pull out to keep his team's focus on football and not over looking the 1-7 Thundering Herd.
Kyle Hightower: Orlando Sentinel
Marshall at UCF
Harmon: UCF 41-Marshall 24
Knights report: Strategy and personnel
Knights report: Inside slant
Mr Knightmans XBOX 360 Sim: UCF 34- MU-14
Friday, November 02, 2007
Marshall's Morris hoping for better homecoming
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HUNTINGTON — For the second time in his Marshall career, quarterback Bernard Morris is returning to his hometown to play before friends and family. But the setting will be so much different this time around.
The big question: Will the result?
Marshall heads to Central Florida to play the Knights in a 3:30 p.m. game Saturday at the new Bright House Networks Stadium in Orlando. Morris and the Herd really hope the game is brighter than the 2005 trip to the Florida Citrus Bowl.
That game was nightmarish for the Herd. Nobody had an inkling that UCF would go on to win the East Division and play host to the first Conference USA championship game. In fact, the then-Golden Knights were riding a 17-game losing streak and were coming off a dismal performance against rival South Florida.
Morris fumbled on Marshall’s first possession and was yanked in the second quarter as the Herd fell behind 20-0. UCF won 23-13, snapping the streak as jubilant students leaped out of the stands to pull down a goalpost.
Doug Smock: WV Gazette
UCF defense regroups, shows strength
UCF’s defense has the full attention of Marshall coach Mark Snyder, that once-upon-a-time part-time assistant in Orlando. And viewing the Knights’ two games since losing 52-38 to ECU and 64-12 to USF, it probably should. On Oct. 20, the Knights (5-3 overall, 3-1 Conference USA) stuck a cork in that high-powered Tulsa offense, holding the Golden Hurricane to nine points in the final three periods of a 44-23 victory. The Knights picked off four Paul Smith passes. Last weekend, UCF forced four more turnovers and left Southern Mississippi with a 34-17 victory. A week after holding Tulsa under 400 total yards, the Knights nearly held Southern Miss under 300. By Conference USA standards, those are “Monsters of the Midway” stats. Marshall will try to score on that unit at 3:30 p.m. Saturday at Orlando. Doug Smock: WV Gazette
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HUNTINGTON — A quick warning: Overlook that part where Central Florida was roughed up for 116 points in two weeks by East Carolina and South Florida.
Smith is O'Leary's diamond in the rough
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ORLANDO -- It didn't take long for UCF coach George O'Leary to realize he had something special in Kevin Smith.
From the first few days of preseason practice in Smith's freshman season in 2005, O'Leary was impressed with the Miami native, who was part of O'Leary's UCF second recruiting class.
"Kevin did some things in pre-season practice that year that some freshmen just don't do," O'Leary said. "He didn't act like a freshman, and he seemed very mature for his age.
"The first thing that caught my eye about him is that he has great vision. He makes great cuts that are hard to teach. He makes cuts after he hits the hole, not before it, and he has a great knack of seeing things. Those were some of the big reasons why we recruited him."
SHAWN A. AKERS: Daytona Beach News Journal
Herd will benefit from long drives
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HUNTINGTON - It's not always wise to try besting a team at its own game, but Marshall University might be staring at just that.
At first glance, Saturday's matchup between the Thundering Herd and Central Florida appears to pit big plays (Marshall) versus bruising ball control (UCF). Yes, the Herd likely will take its share of shots downfield, but quarterback Bernard Morris' offense would do well with extended drives of its own.
UCF undoubtedly will pound away with Kevin Smith seeking to limit Thundering Herd possessions. Smith ranks No. 2 nationally with 1,260 rushing yards and averages 30 carries a game. The junior tailback's number was called a career-high 43 times in last week's 34-17 victory at Southern Miss.
The Golden Knights control the clock by an average four-minute margin entering Saturday's clash with Marshall. UCF (5-3, 3-1 Conference USA) and the Thundering Herd (1-7, 1-3) kick off at 3:30 p.m. at Bright House Networks Stadium. CSS will televise the game.
ANTHONY HANSHEW; The Herald-Dispatch
Jones product's arm worries UCF
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One of the scariest things for UCF's coaching staff heading into Saturday's matchup with Marshall is the Thundering Herd's passing game and hometown product Bernard Morris.
Morris, a Jones High grad, comes in as the second-rated passer in Conference USA (262.9 yards per game), behind only Tulsa's Paul Smith (358 ypg).
The Knights' secondary has been sporadic against the league's best passing attacks. UCF picked off Smith four times in the Knights' win two weeks ago, but he still threw for 316 yards and three scores.
But earlier this season in the Knights' throttling of Memphis, Martin Hankins (third in C-USA passing) was held to 81 passing yards and a single touchdown pass.
UCF, Marshall look to rekindle rivalry
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Teams spirited competition hasn't carried over from the MAC yearsIt was supposed to be the natural rivalry.
Carry-on luggage, if you will, as part of UCF and Marshall's move over to Conference USA from the lesser Mid-American Conference in 2005.
Not only were both programs similar in size and football history, but also faced similar hurdles in states in which they are not the sole attraction.Three years later, however, the quick, once intense MAC-sized rivalry that many thought would be a no-brainer in the new league, hasn't materialized.
Saturday the Knights and Thundering Herd meet for the third time as members of the C-USA East Division, with UCF owning a two-game winning streak after three straight wins by Marshall in the MAC.
Thursday, November 01, 2007
UCF gears for any surprises
At a glance, this Saturday's matchup with 1-7 Marshall should be an easy win for UCF as it starts its November Conference USA title chase.
It's Homecoming. The Knights have won three in a row at home and welcome a Thundering Herd team that has more holes in its roster than a pincushion.
But after two lackluster days of practice to open the week, including their fourth consecutive inside, senior QB Kyle Israel said keeping their intensity will be a big focus the remainder of the week.
It's Homecoming. The Knights have won three in a row at home and welcome a Thundering Herd team that has more holes in its roster than a pincushion.
But after two lackluster days of practice to open the week, including their fourth consecutive inside, senior QB Kyle Israel said keeping their intensity will be a big focus the remainder of the week.
"We haven't done a good job of that, to be honest, the first two days of practice," Israel said. "Some of the veterans on this team know that a game like this can kind of trap you. . . . And it can make you get a skewed vision of how a team really is. I think [Marshall is] a lot better than their record shows."
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
Kyle Hightower; Orlando Sentinel
UCF has seemingly found its groove
HUNTINGTON -- George O'Leary surely would prefer a bit of normalcy to what has been an interesting Central Florida football coaching run.
First came a winless season, followed by a Conference USA East Division title in 2005. Expectations spiked last summer, but UCF stumbled to a 4-8 mark.
All things considered, who knew what to expect in '07? Results have been mixed, but the Knights found their stride. Consecutive wins over C-USA favorites Tulsa (44-23) and Southern Miss (34-17) position UCF within a half game of East Carolina for the East Division lead.
O'Leary's squad continues its march toward a postseason return this weekend against a familiar foe. Former Mid-American Conference rivals UCF (5-3, 3-1) and Marshall (1-7, 1-3) square off in Conference USA action Saturday. Kickoff at Bright House Networks Stadium is 3:30 p.m. and CSS will televise the game.
ANTHONY HANSHEW: The Herald-DispatchMarshall's Passing game beginning to click
On the stat sheet, it simply reads "incomplete." So many times during 2007, however, it's been so much more.
Marshall University's passing game has just missed on numerous big plays. At times, quarterback Bernard Morris added a bit too much zip to a downfield receiver; several more narrow misses reached receivers' fingertips.
Morris, tight end Cody Slate and wideout Darius Passmore gradually are stretching defenses, but opportunities have been missed. Quick strike versus methodical ground game is the top matchup this weekend when Marshall (1-7, 1-3 Conference USA) faces Central Florida (5-3, 3-1). Kickoff at Bright House Networks Stadium is 3:30 p.m. and CSS will televise the game.
Herald-Dispatch.com
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