UCF (4-5) at No. 6 Texas Tech (9-1), Saturday, 3:30 p.m., FOX
Latest line: Texas Tech is favored by 24 points
Matt Murschel, UCF Knights writer: Texas Tech 42, UCF 14
UCF is hitting the road again after a tough defeat at home, falling to Houston, 30-27, in the annual space game on Friday. The Knights managed to build a 10-point lead twice in the first half, but were outscored 13-3 after the break, marking their second consecutive loss. This defeat also broke a nine-year streak of winning the space game when hosted at home. Safety Phil Dunnam stood out with a program-record three interceptions, including a 43-yard pick-six in the first half. Running backs Myles Montgomery and Jaden Nixon each found the end zone, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Houston’s quarterback Conner Weigman, who tallied 305 yards of total offense and threw for two touchdowns in the win. UCF now has the unenviable task of traveling to Lubbock to face No. 6 Texas Tech. The Knights have lost seven straight road contests and haven’t won away from Orlando since beating TCU, 35-34, on Sept. 14, 2024.
Mike Bianchi, Sports Columnist: Texas Tech 48, UCF 14
This could get really ugly really fast. It’s no secret that UCF is out there clipping coupons to get talent while Texas Tech boosters are making it rain with NIL cash. Texas Tech is ranked among the nation’s top 10 in both offense and defense and UCF is down to one scholarship running back for this game. The struggling Knights are banged up and battered and continue to have quarterback issues. Would it surprise anyone if UCF coach Scott Frost started Brazilian redshirt freshman Davi Belfort, whose father is a former mixed martial arts fighter? Unfortunately, for UCF, if this turns into an MMA match, Texas Tech’s offense will be the one landing all the significant strikes.
Adam Lichtenstein, College Football writer: Texas Tech 38, UCF 14
The Red Raiders have been one of the biggest stories of the season, and are 24-point favorites against UCF for a reason. They dove into the portal and brought in some of the nation’s top players. Texas Tech’s offense is solid and its defense — led by stars David Bailey, Romello Height and Jacob Rodriguez — will almost certainly stifle the Knights, as it has with most opponents all season. Texas Tech reportedly spent nearly $28 million on its roster. The investment has clearly paid enormous dividends for the Red Raiders, who are searching for their first Big 12 championship.
