UCF Football: 3 keys to victory vs. Stanford in Week 3

UCF football is looking to prove itself against a Power Five foe in Stanford in Week 3. Here’s what the Knights must do to make that happen.

The type of game UCF fans have waited for, the Knights get a major Power Five team to show up in “The Bounce House” when they take on Stanford in Week 3.

Stanford losing to USC last week takes a little luster from the matchup, as UCF was anticipating a ranked opponent, but the opportunity is still there to be one of the most successful collegiate programs in the country this past decade.

The Knights come in as 7.5-point favorites, and many projections have them winning by even more, despite the return of Stanford star quarterback KJ Costello.

For UCF to come out victorious, they need to carry out these three things.

3. Pound the rock

With all the concern on the quarterback play, UCF has assembled one of the best rushing attacks in college football. There’s a nice blend of pace, elusiveness, dynamism and vision in the backfield, as the four horseman of the UCF have carved up opposing defenses to start the season.

Adrian Killins speed is otherworldly and oft discussed, but the other three running backs play an integral role to the team success. Greg McCrae operates as the between the tackle, timing based runner, as his cutting ability makes him tough to tackle. Otis Anderson is the Swiss army Knight, operating out of the backfield and out of the slot, he is excellent in open field at making defenders miss, as shown by his touchdown run against FAU last week.

New to the party is Bentavious Thompson, who actually leads the Knights in rushing on only 13 attempts. His numbers are astonishing early in the season, averaging 11.9 yards per carry. All four of these running backs will have a big role of keeping the Cardinal defense on their toes, as they were lackluster against USC last week.

The conventional wisdom on Stanford is a tough, physical team, that wins between the trenches. But Stanford struggles running the ball and stopping the run, as they’ve allowed a 100-yard rusher in nine of their last 15 games.

Whether it’s Dillon Gabriel or Brandon Wimbush behind center, this team’s identity. The Knights are the fourth best rushing and total offense in the country, gaining 650 yards. All four of their running backs have found pay dirt at least once this season. With rain on the forecast, UCF must pound the rock and play to Stanford’s weakness.