By Garin Turner
The UCF Knights (3–0) look to stay unbeaten as they travel to Manhattan, Kansas, to face the Kansas State Wildcats (1–3, 0–1) in a Big 12 matchup Saturday at noon EST on FS1.
Knights’ strong start
It has been a dominant September for UCF. The Knights opened the season with a gritty 17–10 win over Jacksonville State, then exploded offensively in a 68–7 rout of North Carolina A&T. Last week, they put together another statement win, rolling past North Carolina 34–9.
The numbers show balance on both sides of the ball. UCF ranks 35th nationally in total offense (449.3 yards per game) and 28th in scoring (39.7 points per game). Defensively, the Knights have been even more impressive, ranking 17th in total defense (246.3 yards allowed per game) and sixth in scoring defense (8.7 points per game). Their pass defense has been elite, allowing just 117 yards per game — fifth-best in the country.
Team leaders
Passing: Tayven Jackson has guided the offense efficiently, throwing for 694 yards and three touchdowns without an interception.
Rushing: Jaden Nixon has been explosive with 160 yards and three touchdowns on just 11 carries.
Receiving: Duane Thomas Jr. leads the team with 12 catches for 148 yards, while DJ Black adds nine receptions for 105 yards and one score.
Defense: Lewis Carter anchors the defense with 19 tackles and a sack. Cole Kozlowski has contributed 15 tackles.
Key matchup
Kansas State has struggled offensively through four games, ranking 117th in FBS in total yards (just 24.3 points per game, 91st nationally). Third-down conversions have been an issue, and that plays directly into UCF’s defensive strength — the Knights rank 30th in opponent third-down percentage.
History is also on the line. A victory would mark UCF’s first-ever win over Kansas State after dropping the first two meetings. It would also be UCF’s first 4–0 start since 2018, when the Knights finished 12–1.
Prediction
UCF has shown the ability to win both close battles and blowouts, while Kansas State has struggled to find consistency. The Knights’ defense should keep the Wildcats in check and the offense has enough weapons to pull away.
Final Score: UCF 38, Kansas State 13
