BYU football is preparing for a cross-country road trip to Orlando to face UCF this Saturday. Following a 28-24 victory over Notre Dame last Saturday, the No. 2 ranked Cougars will travel to the Acrisure Bounce House for what some fans describe as a trap game.
The Cougars enter the matchup with a 6-0 record. Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick noted that UCF has not lost at home this season and will benefit from a homecoming crowd. He described the Golden Knights as a much-improved team compared to last year, noting they held a 14-0 lead early in their previous meeting.
BYU defensive coordinator Kelly Poppinga stated that the team moved on from their previous victory after reviewing game film on Monday. The team is focused on maintaining a mindset of being humble and hungry as they navigate the Big 12 schedule.
UCF enters the game with a 3-3 overall record and a 1-2 record in Big 12 play. Despite a recent bye week, the Golden Knights are managing injuries, including starting quarterback Alonza Barnett. Senior Keyone Jenkins has completed 70% of his passes for 806 yards, eight touchdowns, and three interceptions this season.
BYU also faces personnel updates. While linebacker Isaiah Glasker and safety Raider Damuni returned to the lineup last week, the team continues to play without LJ Martin, who is recovering from an ankle injury. However, running back Sione Moa has been cleared to play after a five-game absence.
BYU head coach Kalani Sitake expressed respect for UCF head coach Scott Frost, noting Frost's ability to utilize offensive talent and team speed. Frost described the Cougars as a physical team with a strong quarterback and called them the best of the bunch in the Big 12.
BYU freshman receiver Legend Glasker stated the team is focused on the upcoming game against UCF as part of a larger goal of chasing championship success.
In their previous meeting in Provo, BYU overcame an early 14-0 deficit to win 41-21. That victory included three touchdown runs by LJ Martin and a 55-yard punt return by Parker Kingston.
