UCF Knights Host Utah Utes in Season-Ending Matchup: Preview and Predictions

The UCF Knights are set to host the Utah Utes in a season-ending matchup on Friday, November 29, at FBC Mortgage Stadium in Orlando, Florida. This game marks the first-ever meeting between the two programs, both of which have had disappointing seasons. UCF and Utah enter the game with identical 4-7 records, with UCF standing at 2-6 in the Big 12 and Utah at 1-7.

UCF, under the leadership of Coach Gus Malzahn, has struggled significantly this season, losing seven of their last eight games. The Knights’ offense, which was expected to be one of the nation’s most dynamic, has been hampered by quarterback issues. However, they have found some stability with freshman quarterback Dylan Rizk, who has thrown for nearly 800 yards and five touchdowns in his last three games. The key to UCF’s offense is running back RJ Harvey, who has rushed for 1,458 yards and 21 touchdowns this season, making him one of the top rushers in the country.

Utah, meanwhile, has been plagued by injuries, particularly at the quarterback position. The Utes have started five different quarterbacks this season, with Luke Bottari expected to start against UCF. Utah’s offense has been stagnant, ranking 14th in the Big 12 in scoring, and their defense, while typically strong under Coach Kyle Whittingham, has shown vulnerabilities lately.

The game is crucial for both coaches, as speculation surrounds their futures. Coach Malzahn is under pressure after a poor season, and Coach Whittingham has hinted that he may evaluate his future after the season, potentially making this his final game with the Utes.

Predictions for the game vary, with some analysts favoring Utah due to UCF’s defensive struggles, while others believe UCF’s strong rushing attack will be too much for the Utes to handle. The consensus odds have UCF as 9.5-point home favorites, with the over/under set at 46.5 points.

The game will be broadcast on Fox, with kickoff scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET. It promises to be a competitive and potentially low-scoring affair given the defensive strengths and offensive challenges of both teams.