UCF lost their first game of the season to North Carolina State tonight, by a score of 28-21.
Why UCF lost the game
Turnovers. The UCF defense played a solid game, and the offense soared once Godfrey took over. But the Knights had 5 turnovers in the game, one of which came on the final drive deep in NC State territory to seal the win for the Wolfpack. UCF turnovers lead directly to 21 of the 28 points scored by NC State.
Why NC State win the game
The Wolfpack did not only take advantage of UCF mistakes, but forced them. They were quick to strike when given opportunities in UCF territory and were smart with their interception returns. The Wolfpack also ran the ball very well picking up 134 net yards and two touchdowns on the ground.
Game Ball:
Jeffrey Godfrey. UCF may have lost the game, but the young freshman quarterback came in late in the third for the Knights and almost stole the game. He finished the game 7-10 with 107 yard through the air and 59 yards with two touchdowns on the ground. There is no denying that the offense responded much better once Godfrey went under center. It may be early be UCF seems to have found their quarterback of the future, and possibly the present.
What this all means:
UCF is now 1-1 on the season. Dreams of an undefeated season have been vanquished but there is still some good to come from this game. The Knights have proven they can hang with the big boys in BCS conferences. Jeff Godfrey has officially had his coming out party. If the Knights can shake off the heartbreak of a final minute loss and refocus, they would realize that they just might be the class of C-USA East. As long as they fix the turnover problem.
Up Next:
The Knights leave home for the first time this season next week when they travel to Buffalo to face the Bulls. UCF defeated the Bulls last year, at home, by a score of 23-17. The real question will be who is under center for the Knights when that game kicks off.
Notable stats:
- Jeff Godfrey is the first UCF QB to run for two touchdowns in a game since Michael Greco did it September 22, 2007 against Memphis.
- Bruce Miller recorded the 28th sack of his career, moving into 9th place amongst all FBS players ever to play in the state of Florida
- Quincy McDuffie moved into a tie for second in UCF history by notching his second career kickoff return for a TD
- UCF outgained NC State in second half offense 200-65
To reread the play-by-play of the game, Click Here
