UCF came into this game with the prospect of domination. They did way more than dominate.
With a final score of 56-6, UCF did not disappoint in either quarter. Coming into the season there were multiple reports on how high-powered this Offense is, and UCF showed it tonight. Senior Quarterback JRP (John Rhys Plumlee) connected a lot with his 2, star wide receivers Sophomore Xavier Townsend and Javon Baker. JRP had a total of 281 passing yards, 92 rushing yards and 3 TDs.
Head Coach Gus Malzhan and his first words to the press:
This now completes Malzhan’s 12th consecutive season opener win.
Xavier Townsend was also a big key player on the offense, with 81 receiving yards, 1 TD, and a pick. Unfortunately, Townsend did not speak to the press but his teammates JRP and TE Jake Hescock and his head coach said multiple good things about him. Townsend first started off as an RB coming into UCF, but he developed as a WR and plays DB too. Townsend has been working super hard this off-season, working on himself, and getting a closer connection with his fellow teammates.
Kent State on the other hand did not do bad. They couldn’t score which was a problem. They had a few plays that they were close but UCF’s defense caught on. Santaluces ALUM (’23) RB Curtis Douglas had 14 yds for the Golden Flashes. QB Michael Alaimo, transfer from Purdue, had 145 passing yds and 35 rushing yards. No touchdowns were completed for the Golden Flashes. 3 field goal attempts and only 2 made.
With a fantastic start to the season for the Knights, I cannot wait to see how far they will go this year. GO KNIGHTS, CHARGE ON!
