UCF Football: 3 keys to victory in tough matchup at Cincinnati

UCF football travels to Cincinnati in one of the most anticipated matchups in the AAC. Here are the Knights three keys to victory.

UCF dominated last weekend, winning 56-21 and proving too much for the Huskies. There was some much-needed angst to get off after the loss to Pitt, and now the Civil Conflict champions return the field in one of their more pivotal match ups of the season.

Many believe that UCF and Cincinnati are the cream of the crop in the AAC East. They were two of the top teams in the conference when they faced off last season, a game the Knights won 38-13 last season in prime time.

Cincinnati hasn’t been able to prove itself under the spotlight, losing that game and to Ohio State early in the season this year. The Buckeyes win is very telling for how the Knights can beat the Bearcats again.

What do the Knights need to do in order to win on Friday night?

3. Find the big plays

Cincinnati’s defense is very good. They’ve held three teams to under 20 points so far this season, and have done of great job at limiting opposing offenses. They rank No. 24 in total defense and hold teams to less than 300 yards per game.

UCF meanwhile, is one of the most explosive teams in the country. They rank second in total offense in the country, and continue to find big play after big play.

One of the most telling aspects of when Cincinnati played Ohio State is how the Buckeyes could attack the Bearcats with big plays, with multiple players hitting big home run plays for touchdowns. UCF doesn’t lack in that department.

Adrian Killins, Otis Anderson and Greg McCrae continue to be big play threats in the run game and special teams this season. Pair them with Gabriel Davis and Tre Nixon, and this offense is special.

Keep an eye on Davis in this one. He currently ranks No. 11 in receiving yards and second in touchdowns in the nation. He’s an explosive player and will be a huge difference maker in this one.