ORLANDO (UCFKnights.com) – No. 25 UCF is 3-0 and ranked for the first time since 2013. The Knights have dominated in their opening three games, winning by an average of 33 points per game, thanks in part to an improved offensive line early on in the campaign.
One of the major questions facing the Knights entering the year was how to protect second-year quarterback McKenzie Milton after the Knights finished with the third most sacks allowed and the third fewest yards per carry in The American in 2016.
"We have definitely played with a chip on our shoulder this season," center Jordan Johnson said. "Last year, I think the offensive line was a weakness of the team. With that as motivation, we've tried to get better every day and sharpen our swords."
That motivation worked.
Through three games, UCF ranks 16th in the country in rushing offense (249.3 yards per game), and seventh in scoring offense with 46.3 points per game. The offensive line also parted the sea for Adrian Killins, Jr. on a 96-yard touchdown run against Memphis to set the record for longest play from scrimmage in UCF history and the longest rush in The American history.
Perhaps the most important stat for the offensive line this season is ZERO. The Knights have given up zero sacks, all season long, a feat that only one other team in the nation has accomplished this season.
"I think our success has come from putting all our focus toward improving our weaknesses," tackle Aaron Evans said. "We spent the offseason trying to get better on the field, in film and in the weight room. A lot of the guys got a lot bigger and stronger. One of our weaknesses last year was not getting enough push. We've done a lot better at that this season, but we can still improve."
Gains in the weight room were a focus in the offseason, and they've made a difference. Evans tacked on 26 pounds, Johnson added 21, guard Jake Brown packed on 19 and Wyatt Miller put on 11. UCF's starting offensive line weighs an average of 319.2 pounds. The line also increased their squat by an average of 137.5 pounds.
"We were close last year, but we've just pushed each other this season," Evans added. "We're tighter as a group this year. We have a good time with each other and strive to hold each other accountable. I think that's showing out on the field. I'm thankful to be around these guys. We're having a lot of fun playing together."
The offensive line will have to be ready to go up against first-year head coach Luke Fickell and the Cincinnati defense on Saturday. Fickell spent 11 seasons as the co-defensive coordinator at Ohio State, including one as the interim head coach in 2011. The Buckeyes defense ranked in the top three in scoring defense three of his last four years.
Fickell also guided the Ohio State defense to the 2015 College Football National Playoff Championship with a 42-20 victory over Oregon, a team with an offensive coordinator named Scott Frost.
"I think they're a good team," Frost said. "Their big and strong on the defensive line. Coach Fickell is a really good coach. I've coached against him before. I have no doubt that they'll get that thing going. This is going to be a challenge."
Prepared for the challenge, the offensive line looks to take the next step and give UCF its first 4-0 start to a season during its time in Division I when the No. 25 Knights travel to face the Bearcats on Saturday at 8 p.m. on ESPNU.
RISE AND CONQUER
The second season of UCF Football under head coach Scott Frost is now underway. Fans can explore all of the new ticket options at Spectrum Stadium by visiting WeRiseandConquer.com or calling (407) 823-1000.
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