UCF (3-1) vs. Kansas (3-2), Saturday, 7:30, ESPN2
Latest line: Kansas is favored by 5 1/2 points
Matt Murschel, UCF Knights writer: Kansas 28, UCF 21
UCF is coming off its first loss of the season, a frustrating 34-20 defeat at Kansas State last Saturday. The Knights have dropped four straight against Big 12 opponents, losing by an average of 10 points per game. To make matters worse, there is uncertainty at quarterback after starter Tayven Jackson suffered an AC joint sprain during the first half against the Wildcats. While he returned to finish the game, his status is uncertain for Saturday’s game, as is that of backup Jacurri Brown, who also suffered an AC sprain. If Jackson or Brown can’t go, that opens the door for Cam Fancher, who started the opener against Jacksonville State before getting hurt. He returned to practice two weeks ago, but hasn’t seen any action since.
Mike Bianchi, Sports Columnist: Kansas 35, UCF 28
Does UCF has a healthy quarterback? Both starter Tayven Jackson and his backup Jacurri Brown sustained shoulder injuries in last week’s loss to Kansas State and may or may not play this week. Meanwhile, we haven’t seen Cam Fancher, the starter coming into the season, since he was knocked out of the season-opener against Jacksonville State. The major question is can UCF’s pass defense, which is ranked sixth in the country, thwart Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels — the nation’s fifth-rated passer with 16 touchdowns and only two interceptions. Since joining the Big 12, the Knights are 0-7 in October and will soon be 0-8.
Adam Lichtenstein, College Football writer: Kansas 31, UCF 24
Struggling Kansas State on the road was too much for the Knights last week. Now they get a chance at the University of Kansas at home. UCF’s quarterback situation is up in the air after starter Tayven Jackson and backup Jacurri Brown suffered shoulder injuries against Kansas State. Kansas, meanwhile, has its standout quarterback in Jalon Daniels, who is tied for second in the nation in passing touchdowns. Daniels is probably the best QB on UCF’s schedule, and he will likely give the Knights trouble.
