Aug. 7, 2008
ORLANDO, Fla. (www.ucfathletics.com) - The UCF football team held its fourth practice of the preseason Thursday afternoon. The Knights worked out for two hours next to Bright House Networks Stadium, spending ample time installing the run game.
With the departure of Kevin Smith to the National Football League after last season, several Knights are vying to replace the All-America selection in the backfield. Redshirt freshman Ronnie Weaver is the lone returning player among the tailbacks. True freshmen Brandon Davis, Brynn Harvey, Brendan Kelly and Latavius Murray have all caught the attention of head coach George O'Leary with their play so far in camp.
O'Leary noted recently after a practice that none of the rookies have stood out individually, but he is pleased with the group as a whole.
"I think they have picked up the offense very well. I have been impressed with their knowledge and their athleticism," said O'Leary. "That is what I really see out there. They still have a lot of learning to do, but I think that they are a group that is getting better every day."
The Knights will wear full pads for first time this preseason during their practice on Friday. The session is slated to start around 9:20 a.m.
? UCF Athletics Hall of Fame member Sean Beckton watched the team practice today. Beckton played wide receiver for the Knights from 1987-90, and later served as an assistant coach at his alma mater.
? Director of athletics Keith Tribble also stopped by to watch the end of practice. Two members of the UCF ISP Sports Network radio team - Marc Daniels and Scott Adams - also visited the practice fields Thursday.
UCF's season opener is slated for Aug. 30 against South Carolina State at Bright House Networks Stadium. The Knights will play six contests at the on-campus facility in 2008.
Season tickets are currently available. To order season tickets, or to learn more about attending games at Bright House Networks Stadium, call 407-UCF-1000.
The Knights went 10-4 last season, captured the Conference USA Championship and participated in the AutoZone Liberty Bowl.
For the latest news on the Knights, log on to www.UCFAthletics.com - the official site for UCF varsity sports. The site, which also contains ticket and Golden Knights Club donor information, is also the home of UCF's new online apparel store. Also visit www.UCFPhotos.com, the exclusive fan source for UCF action sports pictures.