Orlando, Fla. (UCFKnights.com) – The UCF Knights (5-4, 3-2) will look to earn their fourth bowl trip in five years as they face the Cincinnati Bearcats (4-5, 1-4) for the first time in the Sunshine State. Kickoff is set for noon on Saturday at Bright House Networks Stadium. Below are some key facts and statistics about this upcoming conference contest:
Match Up Facts:
- A win would earn UCF it's 8th bowl berth in school history.
- This marks just the second time these two programs have met on the gridiron. Both teams never faced each other in the first two years in the American Athletic Conference.
- This will be the first noon game the Knights have played in BHNS this season.
- Last year's game at Cincinnati was the first game following the retirement of former head coach George O'Leary.
Key Offensive and Defensive Statistics:
- Redshirt senior defensive back Drico Johnson was named the FWAA/Bronco Nagurski National Defensive Player of the Week for his performance against the Tulane Green Wave. The Orlando native scored two defensive touchdowns in the contest. One off a fumble recovery and the other from an interception.
- The Knights defense currently ranks 3rd in the AAC in scoring defense averaging 22.6 points per game.
- Last week, both freshman quarterback McKenzie Milton and senior Justin Holman scored a rushing touchdown in the Knights' victory against Tulane.
Marc's Minute:
In this week's Marc's Minute, UCF Director of Broadcasting Marc Daniels talks about the importance and the significance of this year's game against Cincinnati.
Weather Report:
Saturday's forecast in Orlando calls for a zero percent chance of rain with a projected high of 80 degrees and a projected low of 63 degrees. Temperature around kickoff us expected to be around 78 degrees.
UCF Tailgate Concert Series
Prior to Saturday's conference contest, the UCF Tailgate Concert Series presented by 96.9 The Game and iHeartRadio will take place at the IOA Plaza at 10:00 a.m. This week's headliner will be The Dave Mathews Tribute Band. Local group Jonnie Morgan Band will be the opening act.
Media Links / Coverage
UCFKnights.com – This We'll Defend
UCFKnights.com – Charging On To Cincinnati
Orlando Sentinel – UCF not focusing on bowl eligibility as it preps for Cincinnati
UCFSports.com – Milton, UCF one win away from bowl
Radio/TV/Video
Kickoff is set for noon at Bright House Networks Stadium. The broadcast will be on ESPNU and Watch ESPN. Listen in Orlando on radio station 96.9FM/740AM. It's also available on the iHeart app and the UCF Knights app. Radio coverage will begin at 10:00 a.m.
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