UCF Knights Triumph Over Jacksonville State in Thrilling Season Opener
UCF Knights defeated Jacksonville State 17-10 in a season opener marked by a weather delay and key performances by Tayven Jackson and the defense.
UCF Knights Triumph Over Jacksonville State in Thrilling Season Opener
The football season for the UCF Knights kicked off on August 28, 2025, at the Acrisure Bounce House in Orlando. In a thrilling contest, UCF managed to fend off Jacksonville State, winning the game 17-10. This marks a promising start for Scott Frost, who has returned for his second stint as head coach, having previously led the team to great success.
The game had its fair share of drama, not least due to a two-hour rain and lightning delay that had fans on edge. After resuming just after midnight, tension hung in the air as the score was tied at 3-3 going into the fourth quarter. Jacksonville State briefly took the lead with a 10-yard touchdown run by Andrew Paul, putting them ahead 10-3. However, UCF wasn’t about to let this slip away.
Turning the Tide
In a crucial moment, Indiana transfer quarterback Tayven Jackson stepped in after starting quarterback Cam Fancher was forced to leave the game due to a targeting call, dressed in street clothes for the remainder of the contest. With only 1:03 left on the clock, Jackson connected with DJ Black for a dramatic 33-yard touchdown pass, bringing the Knights back in front at 17-10. Scott Frost reiterated that Jackson’s cool under pressure was vital for the team’s success.
The defense also played a starring role, limiting Jacksonville State to just 134 total yards and an impressive 4.4 yards per play. Jayden Bellamy capped off the evening with an interception with just 16 seconds remaining, sealing the deal for the Knights. Myles Montgomery’s standout moment came with a career-long 64-yard reception, demonstrating UCF’s offensive capabilities even after a rocky start.
A Wealth of History
This victory further extends UCF’s impressive record in season openers, now sitting at a remarkable nine-game winning streak. The last time the Knights lost their first game of the season was way back in 2015. The team is riding high with their current record of 1-0, looking ahead to their next matchup against North Carolina A&T this coming September 6 at 7:00 PM.
For anyone who witnessed the game, it was a rollercoaster of emotions. From the rain delays to last-minute heroics, UCF proved once again that there’s plenty of heart in Orlando’s beloved team. As the season unfolds, fans will undoubtedly keep a keen eye on this exciting roster, eager for what lies ahead.
For more details on the game, check out the coverage from the News-Journal Online and Yahoo Sports.