With 19 seconds remaining, UCF sophomore kicker Daniel Obarski could have saved the team that allowed the Memphis Tigers to score 21 points in the fourth quarter, but the 40-yard field goal attempt was unsuccessful.
The Tigers completed their largest comeback in program history with 21 points and defeated the Knights 50-49 on Saturday at Liberty Bowl Memorial Stadium.
UCF sophomore quarterback Dillon Gabriel completed 35-of-49 passes on 601 yards and five touchdowns, setting the single game record for any Knight during the loss.
On the Knights’ first drive of the fourth quarter sophomore wide receiver Ryan O’Keefe ran in a 93-yard touchdown off a screen pass from Gabriel to bring UCF to 43-29.
Although it took 12 plays, about 3.5 minutes and 70 yards, Memphis scored on its next drive — UCF’s lead fell to 43-37 over the Tigers. UCF would answer with another touchdown, but an illegal formation penalty on a wildcat formation attempt prevented the Knights — who lead 49-44 — from the extra point with just over 5 minutes remaining.
The Tigers scored one more touchdown — but the two point conversion was unsuccessful — and the Knights would not respond, finishing the night 49-50.
The Knights finished with 798 yards of total offense, while the Tigers put up 703 yards.
With the loss, the Knights are 2-2 overall and 1-2 in American Athletic Conference play. The Tigers improve to 2-1 overall and 2-1 in AAC play with the win.
The Knights will next face the Tulane Green Wave at the Bounce House for the homecoming game on Oct. 24 at 2:00 p.m.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
