The Scott Frost Era begins Saturday, the first showing of the next generation of UCF Football after months of hype and a complete program evolution; transcending pure football scheme in overhauling the marketing, appearance and aura of an organization in desperate need of new directions.
UCF will face off against South Carolina State University, a program eager to defend its title as the most dangerous pass rush in the FCS division. Here’s a few things to expect from the 2016 season opener.
Growing Pains
Last season was a never-ending parade of misfortune for UCF fans and players alike, as injuries and bad luck piled on top of each other in a fashion unparalleled across the college football landscape. It led to a rough season for a program forced to start more freshman than ever before in the George O’Leary years.
This year’s growing pains will be slightly different than those set upon a winless Knights team, instead taking the form of an entire squad picking up an intensive new playbook and conditioning program on both sides of the ball. It has not, however, deterred a team who has bought in completely to the UCFast mentality.
“It feels amazing, the energy that these coaches brought in for us. Coach Frost brought in a new system and we just bought in quickly. I feel like players that were a part of that season last year feel like we’re going to give so much effort towards Coach Frost,” said Tre’Quan Smith.
“They gave us a system [and said] do not be afraid to mess up. Last year we were afraid to mess up.”
Playing scared is the death of any football team. There will be mistakes and kinks to work out through the entire year, but the dynamic and ever-evolving football I.Q. of this years’ players will be on display frequently.
Justin Holman; The Leader
This is Justin Holman’s team to lead, make no mistake about it.
“Justin by far is one of the biggest leaders on the team. He’s always willing to work with anybody on the team, to make the whole team better as a whole. He corrects us a lot on our mistakes, he’s there whenever you need him,” confidently proclaimed wide receiver Tre’Quan Smith.
Frost has stated that Holman has the complete package of skill sets he looks for in a prototypical gunslinger for his offense, wishing he had more years ahead to grow with the UCF veteran. Holman has reportedly has impressed coaches with his voracity in devouring the new play book.
Hungry and Humble
A winless season will leave deep and slow-healing scars to any major program. Completely gone are the true core of Knights who earned the Fiesta Bowl win, replaced by those who have either yet to play a down at Bright House Networks Stadium or who still have the sour taste of last season resonating within themselves.
By all appearances and preseason banter, this squad fully comprehends the sacrifices and effort needed in every moment to win on any given Saturday.
“Never, ever underestimate an opponent,” chirped Mark Rucker. “Always go hard against anybody, any opponent no matter what. You have to love to compete no matter who you’re playing against.”
