UCF Suffers 30-3 Loss at Baylor; Coach Frost Calls for Change

UPDATE: UCF faced a disheartening 30-3 loss against Baylor on October 28, 2023, marking their seventh straight road defeat. The Knights’ struggles come just days before they host Houston on Friday in the annual Space Game at Addition Financial Arena.

This latest defeat underlines UCF’s ongoing issues on the road, where they now hold a 3-11 record since the start of 2023. Coach Scott Frost expressed disappointment, stating, “We’ve got to earn one on the road. It’s not going to be given to us, and we’ve got to play a lot better than that.” The Knights are averaging just 12 points per game in away matches this season, while conceding over 28 points in three games.

Junior receiver Duane Thomas Jr. emphasized the need for a strong start, saying, “It’s not like we’re not capable. We have the plays. We’ve just got to start fast.” In stark contrast, UCF’s rushing attack was virtually nonexistent, managing a mere 74 rushing yards against a Baylor defense that previously struggled against the run.

Baylor entered this game with a bottom-ranked rushing defense, yet UCF’s performance was disappointing. The Knights’ output was the lowest since a 84-yard rushing game in November 2022. Frost acknowledged the need to reassess their strategy, noting, “Many of our big plays in the run game have been creative plays that have helped the guys.” Leading the team, Myles Montgomery recorded 50 rushing yards, while Jaden Nixon added just 18 yards.

Baylor’s quarterback, Sawyer Robertson, demonstrated his prowess, completing 73% of his passes for 267 yards and three touchdowns. UCF’s defense struggled against him, with edge rusher Malachi Lawrence recognizing the Bears’ skill in making crucial catches.

In a surprising move, Frost confirmed that Tayven Jackson will remain the starting quarterback despite a subpar performance, where he completed 18 of 33 passes for 151 yards and threw two interceptions. “I’m ready to ride with him,” Frost said, indicating confidence in Jackson’s potential for improvement.

Adding to the Knights’ challenges, senior kicker Noe Ruelas saw his impressive streak of 11 consecutive field goals come to an end after he missed a 53-yard attempt in the third quarter. Ruelas currently stands at 12 of 14 on field goals this season.

As UCF prepares for the pivotal matchup against Houston, the pressure is mounting for a turnaround. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the Knights can finally break their road losing streak and regain momentum in the upcoming days.