Oct. 9, 2011
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By Marc Daniels
UCFAthletics.com
ORLANDO, Fla. (UCFAthletics.com) - George O'Leary often says statistics are for losers. They are used as excuses if you don't win. But even the coach who won his 100th career game with UCF's win over Marshall would have to admit the numbers tell something about his defense. That it's really good.
Do you want some proof?
NCAA stats show UCF is second in total defense behind Michigan State. The Knights are second to Alabama in touchdowns allowed with six. UCF is first in pass defense and pass efficiency defense. UCF also sits atop every team defensive category in Conference USA. But those stats don't do justice to the effort through five games. So here's a little more for you to chew on.
UCF has not allowed a passing touchdown this season. It has allowed just seven red zone possessions by opponents and two of those came after special teams turnovers.
UCF is allowing just 10.0 points per game. But a closer look shows the defense has allowed just 30 total points in five games when you take out the kick and fumble returns for scores.
The longest touchdown drive allowed? That would be a 38-yard drive by BYU. UCF has allowed just one scoring drive above 54 yards this season and that drive saw FIU go 85 yards but only net a field goal.
So even though he doesn't like statistics, O'Leary believes his defense is playing really well.
"They are getting to the ball and making tackles," he said. "We needed more assists on tackles and I thought we did a better job against Marshall in getting more guys making plays."
Yet, despite the impressive numbers, O'Leary believes there are plenty of areas to improve.
"We need to create more turnovers," said the UCF coach. "I'd like to see a few more interceptions and stripping the ball more."
Teams have made adjustments because of UCF's speed on defense when it comes to passing. Quarterbacks are getting rid of the ball quicker. Most teams try to throw deep, but Josh Robinson and company have shut down that part of the game.
But the players know there are many big games that lie ahead. Defensive tackle Victor Gray recognizes each brings a new challenge.
"We know teams will throw new looks at us," said the sophomore. "But we need to keep doing what we do best and keep improving each week."
Gray is right about teams looking for new ways to find opportunities against UCF's defense. That will be the case this week when the Knights travel to Dallas for a C-USA Championship game rematch against SMU.
In fact, SMU is the last team to throw a touchdown pass against UCF 25 quarters ago when the Mustangs scored their lone touchdown in the title game with a fourth quarter toss for a score.
Over the course of the last few years, UCF has developed a reputation on defense. They are known as a tough physical, punch-you-in-mouth group that is tough to score on. So offenses, consider yourself next in line to be offended.
Knights notes and more: Bravo to every UCF fan who braved the elements Saturday night at Bright House Networks Stadium. The weather conditions were brutal and there were many of you showing your loyalty and made a lot of noise when it was tough to be louder than the pelting rain that fell all game...Seven straight wins over Marshall. Just saying...Brynn Harvey's 180-yard performance against Marshall was a flashback to the bruising back that Harvey was in 2009. It also was what O'Leary had been looking for because it gives the coach the formula he wants to win in October and November. That formula is to play great defense and control the clock and limit the possessions of your opponent. With so many spread offenses in C-USA, ball control is often the key to victory...With UCF's win over Marshall and Houston's victory against East Carolina, the Knights are alone atop the C-USA East Division standings. Four teams remain unbeaten in the league with UCF, Houston, SMU and Tulsa all unbeaten in league play...Conference realignment news..uh, never mind...Marcus Jordan was a guest on my radio show this past week. He's excited about the upcoming season and will play more off-guard, his natural position. Keep an eye on sophomore Isaiah Sykes this year. No player had a better offseason than Sykes and he is expected to see plenty of time at the point when UCF goes to a big lineup. By the way, I asked Marcus the coolest name on his phone contact list not listed "Dad". He answered Lil'Wayne...Speaking of hoops, UKNIGHT Madness is this Friday. It's a first look at both the men's and women's teams. The free event at the UCF Arena begins at 7:30 p.m. ...Final thought: I sent an e-mail to a business associate asking a few questions about something. He e-mailed me asking if he should call or email the answers? Whichever one takes longer was my answer. Who's in a hurry?
Marc Daniels' From the Press Box runs several times per month on UCFAthletics.com. Listen to Marc during UCF football, men's basketball and baseball radio broadcasts on the UCF Sports Network. Each weekday, Marc hosts The Beat of Sports on ESPN Radio 1080 in Orlando.