UCF Knights football faces a chilling challenge this weekend as they prepare for temperatures nearing 40 degrees in Morgantown, West Virginia. Coach Gus Malzahn provided insights on how his team plans to address the cold weather during a Monday press conference.
As the Knights gear up for their final road game of the season, they’ll navigate the iconic country roads of West Virginia, aiming to turn around their season after a disappointing recent performance.
The UCF Knights (4-6, 2-5 Big 12) will take on the West Virginia Mountaineers (5-5, 4-3) in a crucial matchup that kicks off at 3:30 p.m. Saturday, with the game set to be broadcast live on ESPNU. After a bye week following a turnover-heavy defeat against Arizona State, UCF must secure victories in their remaining games to extend their streak of bowl game appearances to nine consecutive years.
Meanwhile, West Virginia is on the cusp of achieving bowl eligibility and can clinch it by defeating UCF, which would also extend their all-time series advantage over the Knights to 4-0. The Mountaineers previously thwarted UCF’s homecoming festivities last October with a decisive 41-28 win at the Bounce House.
West Virginia will toast its Senior Day on Saturday, seeking that pivotal sixth win, a task made more feasible against UCF compared to their impending confrontation with 6-4 Texas Tech later this month.
Chris Boyle: West Virginia 38, UCF 33
A season that began with lofty aspirations is now dwindling, culminating in a challenging contest against West Virginia. Even with UCF recovering during their bye week and anticipating the return of top cornerback BJ Adams, containing the Mountaineers’ ground game presents a formidable challenge. Last year, West Virginia racked up an impressive 289 rushing yards and five touchdowns against the Knights in Orlando, and while UCF now boasts the 31st-ranked run defense, the resurgence of Garrett Greene from injury complicates the situation further.
The Mountaineers have struggled at home this year, suffering four losses, but the expected chilly kickoff temperatures in the mid-30s may well play into their strengths as they aim to overpower UCF.
Chris Vinel: West Virginia 34, UCF 27
Greene, who has demonstrated impressive mobility, has rushed for at least 85 yards in five consecutive games, showcasing his capability as a dual-threat quarterback.
Ken Willis: UCF 43, West Virginia 40
In analyzing the matchup, I observe two key factors. First, while the Mountaineers entered the season hopeful, their inability to capitalize at home has left them reeling; they hold a dismal 1-4 record at home this year against FBS opponents.
Secondly, let’s consider the effects of the current weather trends. It’s that time of year when the air turns crisp, and pets can’t help but get energetic and excited as humidity gives way to cooler temperatures, a sly metaphor for how the Knights may react to the chilly conditions come Saturday. Don’t expect them to shy away from the cold—they’ll embrace it, while the Mountaineers will graciously host the contest.
