University of Central Florida Knights at a Crossroad Ahead of Iowa State Clash

The University of Central Florida (UCF) Knights are navigating a tumultuous 2024 football season as they face a pivotal game against the Iowa State Cyclones. At 3-3 overall and 1-2 in the Big 12 Conference, the Knights have endured a challenging run, losing three consecutive games. This week, they are set to take on Iowa State (6-0, 3-0 Big 12) as significant underdogs.

UCF’s head coach, Gus Malzahn, is striving to rejuvenate his team’s performances, aiming to achieve victories against formidable opponents. “It’s about winning football games,” Malzahn remarked. “This week, we’re playing one of the better teams in college football, one of the hottest teams, on their home field.” The Knights have historically struggled against top-10 teams, holding a record of 3-13 since 2000, with their last road victory against a top-10 opponent occurring in 2013 against Louisville.

In a bid to change their fortunes, Malzahn has made a significant quarterback change. Jacurri Brown is set to start over KJ Jefferson, a seasoned transfer from the Arkansas Razorbacks. Jefferson has had difficulties adapting this season, including a completion rate of 59.3 percent over five games, resulting in 1,012 passing yards, seven touchdowns, and four interceptions.

UCF’s defensive end emphasized the importance of the upcoming game against Iowa State. “We still have six games left and want to finish 6-0,” he said, noting the significance of securing a win in a challenging away atmosphere.

The game represents the first meeting between UCF and Iowa State. The Cyclones, led by head coach Matt Campbell, aim to maintain their perfect season and match their historic best start of 7-0 achieved in 1938. Rocco Becht, Iowa State’s quarterback, stands out with impressive stats, ranking seventh in the Big 12 for passing yards per game (239.7) and maintaining a high passing average.

On the defensive front, the Cyclones have demonstrated strong performances, leading the conference in turnover margin with a plus-9, and allowing minimal big plays by their opponents. This defensive robust will challenge UCF’s struggling offense, which has scored merely 184 points across the first six games, a stark comparison to their 2015 season.

The game will be broadcast on FS1, with a 7:30 PM kickoff set at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames. The weather forecast predicts a cool 47 degrees with minimal chances of rain, setting the stage for an intense college football matchup.