UCF takes over Houston’s spot in the Group of Five Power Rankings after a strong showing Thursday night against Florida International. McKenzie Milton carved up the FIU secondary, throwing for 360 yards and four touchdowns on 16-of-21 passing. The Knights rushing attack also got going against the Golden Panthers, generating 148 yards and four more touchdowns on the ground.
Perhaps an even better sign was a defense that generated four Panthers turnovers. UCF gave up yardage to the FIU offense, but they also prevented the Panthers from really making a game of it on the scoreboard. If the offense can continue to put up video-game numbers under the leadership of former Oregon offensive coordinator Scott Frost, the defense will be just fine.
UCF, of course, has plenty of stiff competition not just from other Group of Five leagues but from within the American Athletic Conference. South Florida is in its division, and an opponent like Memphis, Navy, or Houston would loom in the AAC Championship Game. But if they continue playing at such a high level, the Knights will quickly rise among the league contenders.
Conference play begins right away next week when Memphis comes to Orlando. The Knights will have a chance to knock off an interdivisional opponent and jump to an early lead in the division standings. It will also serve as an early separation game in the Group of Five Power Rankings featuring two ranked teams.