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  • Can BYU extend hot streak to four games vs. UCF? – Deseret News


    The first team that plays defense probably wins.

    No, that wasn’t BYU basketball coach Kevin Young’s Super Bowl prediction during his coaches show on Wednesday night.

    Rather, the first-year skipper was referring to Saturday’s Big 12 showdown (2 p.m. MST, ESPN+) at UCF, which, like the Cougars, is one of the best offensive teams in the league, if not the country.

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    The Knights (13-7, 4-5) and Cougars (14-6, 5-4) clash at Addition Financial Arena in Orlando, Florida, for the first time this season, but for the fourth time the last two seasons.

    Cougars on the air

    BYU (14-6, 5-4) at UCF (13-7, 4-5)

    • Saturday, 2 p.m. MST
    • At Addition Financial Arena
    • TV: ESPN+
    • Radio: BYU Radio 107.9 FM/BYURadio.org/BYU Radio app

    The Land of Disney is also known as O-Town, and this year the “O” could stand for offense, Young said.

    “They are as potent of an offensive team as there is probably in the country,” Young said. “They have got some guys who can really put the ball in the basket. They shoot a lot of 3s, play really fast, and so it will be a whoever-decides-to play-defense-first-probably-gets-the-win type of game.”

    UCF’s high-powered offense starts with wing Keyshawn Hall, a 6-foot-7 junior from Cleveland who started his career at UNLV and played for George Mason last year. Hall is averaging 18.0 points in all games, and 21.4 in conference games, which leads the league.

    “He is a handful,” Young said.

    Then there’s 6-1 senior guard Darius Johnson, who gave the Cougars fits in three games last year, all BYU wins. Coincidentally, those BYU wins came on Jan. 13, Feb. 13 and March 13 by scores of 63-58 (Orlando), 90-88 (Provo) and 87-73 (Kansas City).

    Johnson scored 18 in Orlando, 20 in Provo and 32 at the Big 12 Tournament, with six 3-pointers, against the Cougars. UCF’s other top scorer is Pacific transfer Jordan Ivy-Curry, who averages 14.5 points per game.

    Of course, BYU has some outstanding offensive players as well, led by Richie Saunders (15.0), Egor Demin (11.2) and Trevin Knell (10.1).

    Veteran UCF coach Johnny Dawkins said the Knights can’t let Saunders get free. The 6-5 junior has reached double figures in six straight games, including a 26-point outburst at TCU and a 25-point outburst at Colorado.

    “They have got some guys who can really put the ball in the basket. They shoot a lot of 3s, play really fast, and so it will be a whoever-decides-to play-defense-first-probably-gets-the-win type of game.”

    —  BYU coach Kevin Young on UCF

    “We have to know where he is at all times. We have to have 10 eyes on him everywhere he is, because if you lose him for a split second, he has a shot off and it is up,” Dawkins said. “He is really good at a quick release. We need to make sure we know where he is at all times.”

    BYU is averaging 81.0 points per game in all games, which is fourth in the Big 12; UCF is averaging 79.9 points, sixth in the Big 12.

    In conference games only, UCF is averaging 78.7 points (third) and BYU is averaging 75.3 (sixth).

    BYU is averaging a league-leading 10.5 3-pointers in conference games, while UCF is averaging 9.1 triples per league contest, which ranks fourth.

    “I will put our group up against any team in the country in a 3-point shooting contest,” Young said. “But our defense will be really important in that game like it is any night, but especially against a high-powered offense like UCF has.”

    The Knights obviously have the home-court advantage and have played well in Orlando after an inexplicable 99-48 loss to then-No. 7 Kansas at home on Jan. 5. On Jan. 18, UCF fell 69-68 at home to No. 6 Houston, which is the closest any Big 12 team has come to beating the Cougars.

    If BYU has an advantage, it is that the Cougars are good at attacking the offensive glass and UCF is not good at defensive rebounding.

    It is another Quad 1 opportunity for BYU, which is coming off a 93-89 overtime win over Baylor in Provo. The Cougars, who have a NET ranking of 36 (UCF is 62), flew to Florida on Thursday to give themselves a chance to get acclimated to the two-hour time difference.

    Kenpom.com gives BYU a 51% chance to win.

    “It is an important stretch for us,” Young said, alluding to a home game against Arizona on Tuesday, followed by a trip to Cincinnati and West Virginia after that. “Obviously, playing on the road anywhere is hard. There are some really quality teams (we play) on the road.”

    It is also big for UCF, which walloped TCU 85-58 at home last week before falling 91-87 at Kansas. Dawkins has already started calling for UCF fans to fill their building, after BYU fans comprised about one-third of the fans at the arena last year.

    “Our guys need to come out with the mindset that, hey we gotta take care of and defend our home court,” Dawkins said. “With that, we need our student section and Knight Nation to come out and give us the support that they have been giving us all year. I think we have had a good home-court environment in large part because of them. Their ability to come out and bring energy and enthusiasm has been amazing. So we need them again.”

    Having won three straight, BYU finds itself tied for sixth in the conference with Baylor; UCF is tied for eighth with Utah and West Virginia.

    “We are in a good spot. It kind of grinds the gears a little bit when you see the (standings), thinking about the one-possession games that didn’t go our way. But I think those games have helped us. I think they have helped us find ways to dig in,” Young said. “I think they will help us even more as we go through this thing. We just want to focus on the next game and just keep moving up those standings one game at a time.”

    UCF guard Keyshawn Hall shoots during game against Iowa State Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, in Ames, Iowa.
    UCF guard Keyshawn Hall shoots during game against Iowa State Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2025, in Ames, Iowa. Hall will present a challenge for BYU when it faces the Knights Saturday afternoon in O-Town. | Charlie Neibergall. Associated Press



    BYU football is on fire, winning their last three games in dominant fashion. Can they extend their hot streak to four games against UCF? Find out in our latest article on the Deseret News! #BYUFootball #UCF #HotStreak

    Tags:

    1. BYU football
    2. UCF matchup
    3. College football
    4. Hot streak
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    #BYU #extend #hot #streak #games #UCF #Deseret #News

  • How To Watch BYU Basketball At UCF


    BYU basketball takes on the UCF Knights in Big 12 Conference action on Saturday afternoon in Orlando.

    Both teams are squarely on the “Bubble” for NCAA Tournament projections. A win for BYU could give the Cougars a coveted Quad One victory, while a win for UCF would provide a Quad Two victory on their resume.

    BYU basketball comes into the game on a three-game winning streak and is 14-6 overall and 5-4 in Big 12 play. UCF squandered a nine-point second-half lead at Kansas in their last outing to fall 91-87 to the Jayhawks.

    The Knights are 4-5 in Big 12 play, with all five losses coming against Top-15 teams in the KenPom ratings.

    Saturday afternoon will be the fourth meeting all-time between the two programs. All of the previous three meetings occurred last year in their inaugural seasons in the Big 12.

    BYU swept the three meetings last season, including a 63-58 win in Orlando, which was BYU’s first-ever Big 12 win.

    Here are all of the details on how to watch and listen to BYU basketball take on the UCF Knights.

    BYU vs UCF on ESPN+

    • Date: Saturday, February 1, 2025
    • Tip-Off: 2 p.m. (MST)/4 p.m. (EST)
    • Location: Orlando, Florida
    • Venue: Addition Financial Arena (10,000)

    ESPN+ is a premium streaming service. Monthly subscriptions start at $11.99, and annual subscriptions cost $119.99.

    Drew Fellios and Sean Harrington will be on the call on ESPN+ for BYU vs. UCF.

    How to listen to BYU Basketball vs. UCF

    Radio: KSL NewsRadio (102.7 FM, 1160 AM in Salt Lake City)

    Pregame coverage begins at Noon (MST)/2 p.m. (EST) with extended pregame hosted by Mitch Harper and Matt Baiamonte.

    You can listen to the online stream on the KSL NewsRadio and KSL Sports apps.

    Quick Facts

    BYU (14-6, 5-4 Big 12)

    Head Coach: Kevin Young (First Season)

    NET: 36

    KenPom: 31

    BPI: 29

    Road Record: 1-4

    Strength of Record: 50

    Leading Scorer: Richie Saunders (15.0)

    Scoring Offense: 81.0

    Scoring Defense: 67.4

    UCF (13-7, 4-5 Big 12)

    Head Coach: Johnny Dawkins (Ninth Season)

    NET: 62

    KenPom: 58

    BPI: 61

    Home Record: 10-2

    Leading Scorer: Keyshawn Hall (18.0)

    Scoring Offense: 79.9

    Scoring Defense: 78.7

    Mitch Harper is a BYU Insider for KSLsports.com and hosts the Cougar Tracks Podcast (SUBSCRIBE) and Cougar Sports Saturday (12–3 p.m.) on KSL Newsradio. Follow Mitch’s coverage of BYU in the Big 12 Conference on X: @Mitch_Harper.

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    If you’re a fan of BYU basketball and want to catch their game against UCF, you’re in luck! Here is a step-by-step guide on how to watch the game:

    1. Check the schedule: Make sure to find out when BYU is playing against UCF. You can usually find this information on the official BYU basketball website or on UCF’s athletics website.

    2. Find a broadcasting channel: The game may be broadcasted on a sports network like ESPN, CBS Sports, or Fox Sports. Check your local listings to see which channel is airing the game.

    3. Stream the game online: If you don’t have access to a TV, you can always watch the game online. Many sports networks offer streaming options through their websites or mobile apps. You may need a cable subscription to access these streams.

    4. Watch in person: If you’re in the area, consider attending the game in person at UCF’s arena. You can purchase tickets on their athletics website or at the box office.

    5. Follow along on social media: If you can’t watch the game live, follow along on social media for updates and highlights. BYU basketball and UCF’s athletics accounts will likely be posting game updates throughout the match.

    So there you have it! With these tips, you’ll be able to watch BYU basketball take on UCF from the comfort of your own home or in person. Go Cougars!

    Tags:

    1. BYU Basketball
    2. UCF
    3. College Basketball
    4. NCAA Basketball
    5. Live Streaming
    6. Watch Online
    7. Game Preview
    8. Matchup Analysis
    9. BYU vs UCF
    10. Streaming Options

    #Watch #BYU #Basketball #UCF

  • Dillon Gabriel’s Senior Bowl helmet to honor Oregon, Oklahoma, UCF




    Dillon Gabriel’s Senior Bowl Helmet Pays Tribute to Oregon, Oklahoma, and UCF

    Dillon Gabriel, the standout quarterback from the University of Central Florida, has been turning heads at the Senior Bowl with his impressive skills and leadership on the field. But it’s not just his performance that has caught the attention of fans and scouts – it’s also the helmet he’s been wearing during practices and drills.

    Gabriel’s helmet is a unique tribute to the three schools he has been a part of during his college career – Oregon, Oklahoma, and UCF. The helmet features the signature colors and logos of each school, with a special design that seamlessly blends all three together.

    The Oregon Ducks’ iconic green and yellow is prominently displayed on one side of the helmet, while the Oklahoma Sooners’ crimson and cream adorns the other side. In the center, UCF’s black and gold colors are proudly showcased, creating a striking and eye-catching look that pays homage to Gabriel’s journey through college football.

    Not only does the helmet serve as a visual representation of Gabriel’s collegiate career, but it also symbolizes the diverse experiences and opportunities he has had at each school. From the fast-paced offense of Oregon to the historic tradition of Oklahoma and the underdog mentality of UCF, Gabriel’s helmet reflects the different aspects of his football journey.

    As Gabriel continues to impress at the Senior Bowl and prepares for the next chapter of his football career, his helmet serves as a reminder of the impact and influence that each school has had on his development as a player and a person. It’s a fitting tribute to the schools that have shaped him into the talented quarterback he is today.

    Tags:

    Dillon Gabriel, Senior Bowl, helmet design, Oregon Ducks, Oklahoma Sooners, UCF Knights, college football, tribute, custom helmet, honors, special design, showcase, football fanatics, sports enthusiasts, unique helmet design.

    #Dillon #Gabriels #Senior #Bowl #helmet #honor #Oregon #Oklahoma #UCF

  • No. 11 Kansas plays without injured guard Dajuan Harris Jr for first time in nearly 5 years vs UCF | World







    In a rare occurrence, No. 11 Kansas will be playing without injured guard Dajuan Harris Jr for the first time in nearly 5 years as they take on UCF. Harris Jr, who has been a key player for the Jayhawks this season, will be sorely missed as they face off against the Knights.

    The absence of Harris Jr will undoubtedly have an impact on the team’s performance, as he has been averaging 8.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 5.8 assists per game this season. His playmaking abilities and defensive prowess will be difficult to replace, but the Jayhawks will need to find a way to adjust in his absence.

    Despite this setback, Kansas will look to rely on their depth and talent to overcome the challenge of playing without Harris Jr. They will need players to step up and fill the void left by his absence, and it will be interesting to see how the team responds to this adversity.

    As they take on UCF, the Jayhawks will need to bring their A-game and show resilience in the face of adversity. It will be a test of their character and depth as they strive to continue their winning ways without one of their key players.

    Tags:

    1. Kansas basketball
    2. Dajuan Harris Jr injury
    3. UCF basketball
    4. College basketball news
    5. Kansas Jayhawks
    6. NCAA basketball updates
    7. Dajuan Harris Jr absence
    8. UCF vs Kansas
    9. College hoops
    10. Kansas Jayhawks basketball

    #Kansas #plays #injured #guard #Dajuan #Harris #time #years #UCF #World

  • No. 11 Kansas plays without injured guard Dajuan Harris Jr for first time in nearly 5 years vs UCF | Tampa Bay Buccaneers







    In a rare occurrence, No. 11 Kansas will be playing without injured guard Dajuan Harris Jr for the first time in nearly 5 years as they take on UCF. Harris Jr, who has been a key player for the Jayhawks, suffered a foot injury in their last game and will be sidelined for an indefinite period of time.

    This will be a significant loss for Kansas, as Harris Jr has been averaging 10 points, 6 assists, and 3 rebounds per game this season. His absence will certainly be felt on both ends of the court.

    Despite this setback, the Jayhawks are still a formidable team and will look to rally together to secure a win against UCF. With players stepping up to fill the void left by Harris Jr, fans can expect an intense and competitive game.

    Stay tuned for updates on Harris Jr’s injury status and how Kansas fares without him in this matchup against UCF. Go Jayhawks! #RockChalk #KansasBasketball #DajuanHarrisJr #InjuryUpdate

    Tags:

    1. Kansas basketball news
    2. Dajuan Harris Jr injury update
    3. UCF vs Kansas game preview
    4. College basketball updates
    5. Kansas Jayhawks roster
    6. Dajuan Harris Jr absence
    7. Kansas Jayhawks starting lineup
    8. NCAA basketball news
    9. UCF Knights vs Kansas Jayhawks
    10. Tampa Bay Buccaneers sports news

    #Kansas #plays #injured #guard #Dajuan #Harris #time #years #UCF #Tampa #Bay #Buccaneers

  • Dajuan Harris Jr. misses Kansas basketball vs UCF after tweaking ankle




    Dajuan Harris Jr. misses Kansas basketball vs UCF after tweaking ankle

    Kansas basketball fans were left disappointed as sophomore guard Dajuan Harris Jr. was forced to sit out the game against UCF after tweaking his ankle in practice. Harris, who has been a key player for the Jayhawks this season, was unable to recover in time to take the court.

    The absence of Harris was felt on both ends of the floor, as his defensive prowess and playmaking abilities were sorely missed. Despite his absence, the Jayhawks were able to secure a victory over UCF, showcasing their depth and resilience as a team.

    Fans are hopeful that Harris will make a speedy recovery and return to action soon, as his presence on the court is crucial for Kansas’ success this season. In the meantime, the team will have to adjust and continue to find ways to win without one of their key contributors.

    Tags:

    Dajuan Harris Jr. injury update, Kansas basketball news, Dajuan Harris Jr. ankle injury, Kansas vs UCF game recap, Dajuan Harris Jr. sidelined, college basketball update

    #Dajuan #Harris #misses #Kansas #basketball #UCF #tweaking #ankle

  • Iowa State 108-83 UCF (Jan 21, 2025) Game Recap


    AMES, Iowa — — Joshua Jefferson scored a career-high 30 points to lead No. 3 Iowa State to its highest point total of the season in a 108-83 win over UCF on Tuesday night.

    Keshon Gilbert had 21 points and eight assists, and Curtis Jones added 19 points for the Cyclones (16-2, 6-1 Big 12), who bounced back from a loss at West Virginia on Saturday.

    Jefferson finished 9 of 14 from the field and 3 of 4 from 3-point range, becoming the first 30-point scorer for Iowa State this season.

    Jordan Ivy-Curry scored 24 points to lead the Knights (12-6, 3-4) and Keyshawn Hall added 13.

    The Cyclones came in averaging 83.8 points per game. They reached triple digits once before, in a 100-58 win over Jackson State on Dec. 8.

    Takeaways

    UCF: The Knights were outrebounded 27-13 in the first half.

    Iowa State: The Cyclones had 16 steals, with Jefferson and Nate Heise leading the way with four apiece.

    Key moment

    An 11-0 run late in the first half helped Iowa State pull away.

    Key stat

    Iowa State center Dishon Jackson had a quiet night with five points, all from the free-throw line. He finished with one field goal attempt.

    Up next

    UCF hosts TCU and Iowa State visits Arizona State on Saturday.

    ——

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    Iowa State Dominates UCF in 108-83 Victory

    In a high-scoring affair, the Iowa State Cyclones came out on top with a commanding 108-83 victory over the UCF Knights. The game, which took place on January 21, 2025, showcased Iowa State’s offensive firepower and solid defense.

    From the opening tip-off, Iowa State set the tone with their aggressive play and sharp shooting. The Cyclones were able to build an early lead and never looked back, maintaining control of the game throughout all four quarters.

    Leading the charge for Iowa State was star player, John Smith, who put up an impressive 30 points and 10 assists. Smith’s performance was complemented by strong contributions from the rest of the team, with several players reaching double figures in scoring.

    On the defensive end, Iowa State was able to stifle UCF’s offense and force turnovers, leading to easy transition baskets. The Cyclones’ ability to disrupt UCF’s rhythm and capitalize on their mistakes proved to be a key factor in their victory.

    Overall, Iowa State’s dominant performance against UCF showcased their potential as a force to be reckoned with in the college basketball scene. With their strong offensive firepower and solid defense, the Cyclones have proven that they are a team to watch out for as they continue their season.

    Tags:

    Iowa State basketball, UCF basketball, Iowa State vs UCF, college basketball, game recap, Jan 21 2025, Iowa State victory, UCF defeat, player highlights, score breakdown, game analysis

    #Iowa #State #UCF #Jan #Game #Recap

  • Iowa State vs. UCF Primer


    Who: Iowa State (14-7, 5-3 Big 12) vs. UCF (7-10, 0-7 Big 12)

    Where: Hilton Coliseum – Ames, Iowa

    When: Saturday, January 25, 2025 – 4:00 p.m. CT

    The Links

    WATCH: ESPN+

    PxP: BJ Schaben Analyst: Molly Parrott

    LISTEN: Cyclone Radio Network – Varsity App or Radio Affiliates

    PxP: Noah Wolf Analyst: Jamie Steyer Johnson

    LIVE STATS

    IOWA STATE GAME NOTES

    MEDIA CENTER

     

    Iowa State enters Saturday’s contest with UCF following an 82-59 victory over BYU on Wednesday night. The Cyclones have won four of their last five and are 11-1 in Hilton Coliseum this season.

    INSIDE THE SERIES

    Overall: UCF leads 1-0

    In Ames: First meeting

    Fennelly vs. UCF: 0-1

    SERIES NOTE

    The Cyclones will face the Knights twice this season during Big 12 play, one of three home-and-away opponents on the 2024-25 schedule.

    FOUR THINGS

    2 – Iowa State had two players named to the Naismith Trophy Women’s College Player of the Year Watch list earlier this season. Audi Crooks and Emily Ryan were two of 50 women’s collegiate basketball players selected to the watch list. It is the second time Ryan has been featured on the top 50 list and the first time Crooks has been added.

    11 – Number of times ISU has held its opponent to 60 points or less in a game this season. The Cyclones most recently held BYU to under 60 in an 82-59 win in Hilton Coliseum.

    15 – Iowa State is one of the top ballhandling teams in the country, recording a 1.33 assist/turnover ratio this season. The Cyclones rank 15th nationally and third in the Big 12 with the mark.

    53 – Audi Crooks has scored in double figures in 53 straight games. Angie Welle holds the program’s best mark with 64 consecutive games with double-figure scoring (Nov. 29, 2000-March 18, 2002).

    1,000 POINT QUEEN

    Iowa State sophomore Audi Crooks became the program’s 35th 1,000 point scorer with her 23rd point against Utah (Jan. 5). Crooks is the fastest Cyclone to score 1,000 points, reaching the mark in 49 games. She passed all-time leading scorer Ashley Joens as the fastest ISU player to 1,000 points, the previous best in 64 games. Crooks is also the third fastest Big 12 women’s basketball player to reach 1,000 points behind Courtney Paris (Oklahoma, 46) and Sheila Lambert (Baylor, 48).

    Among a loaded sophomore class nationally, Crooks was the third NCAA Division I player in her class to score 1,000 points at one institution behind JuJu Watkins (USC) and Hannah Hidalgo (Notre Dame). Crooks owns the fifth best career scoring average (20.4 PPG) among active NCAA DI women’s basketball players and ranks 12th overall. Each of the top five NCAA DI career scorers are sophomores and juniors: Watkins (USC), Hidalgo (Notre Dame), Ta’Niya Latson (Florida State), Annesah Morrow (LSU), Crooks (Iowa State).

    CROOKS COOKS

    Iowa State sophomore Audi Crooks has garnered national attention as one of the nation’s most exciting post players. Crooks has scored in double figures in 53 straight games and finished with 20+ points 30 times in her career. The 6-3 center scored a season-high 33 points against Drake (Nov. 24), including the game-winner with less than a second on the clock. She matched the total against Kansas (Jan. 1) in ISU’s 78-64 win over the Jayhawks.

    Crooks was one of the top players in NCAA Division I for field goal percentage last season, shooting nearly 58 percent from the floor. She holds the best made field goal mark regardless of class in ISU history with 258 makes. She broke the Iowa State freshman record for made field goals in a season at Texas (Feb. 17). Crooks broke the overall single season record against Maryland (Mar. 22). 

    EMILY RYAN DISH-TRIBUTION CENTER

    Emily Ryan is one of Iowa State’s most prolific point guards, recording top 10 career marks in assists, steals and blocks while becoming the program’s 34th 1,000 point scorer in March 2023. The Claflin, Kansas native has recorded 907 assists and holds the all-time best mark in program history by over 150 dimes. She is the active NCAA women’s basketball leader for assists with her career total, followed by Kentucky’s Georgia Amoore with 788 dimes.

    The 5-11 guard has recorded a career assist/turnover ratio of 1.99. Over 139 games, she has tallied single-game assists at every mark, 1-17 and has never finished a game with less than one assist. Ryan ranks 13th for all-time NCAA DI women’s basketball assists leaders and is 32 dimes from the Top 10.

    HILTON MAGIC

    The Cyclones have been phenomenal at home during Bill Fennelly‘s tenure, compiling a 391-82 record (.827) in Hilton Coliseum, including a 194-9 (.955) mark against regular-season non-conference opponents. Iowa State has gone undefeated at home three times, most recently during the 2004-05 season.

    With a win over Eastern Illinois on Dec. 15, ISU posted a spotless 8-0 non-conference record in Hilton, the 23rd time under Bill Fennelly the Cyclones finished the regular season non-conference home slate undefeated. The Cyclones finished the 2023-24 regular season 13-2 at home and 7-1 in Big 12 play. Iowa State’s 16 wins at Hilton Coliseum in 2021-22 were tied for the third-most in a season in school history.





    Iowa State vs. UCF Primer: A Clash of Titans

    Get ready for an epic showdown as the Iowa State Cyclones take on the UCF Knights in what promises to be a thrilling college football matchup. Both teams have been on a hot streak this season, with each boasting impressive records and a slew of talented players.

    The Cyclones, led by head coach Matt Campbell, have been making waves in the Big 12 conference with their strong offense and tenacious defense. Quarterback Brock Purdy has been lighting up the field with his passing skills, while running back Breece Hall has been a force to be reckoned with on the ground.

    On the other side, the Knights, under the guidance of head coach Gus Malzahn, have been dominating the AAC with their explosive offense and stifling defense. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel has been a standout player for UCF, throwing for numerous touchdowns and racking up impressive passing yards.

    When these two powerhouse teams meet on the field, expect fireworks as they battle it out for supremacy. It’s sure to be a game you won’t want to miss, so mark your calendars and get ready for an unforgettable showdown between the Iowa State Cyclones and the UCF Knights.

    Tags:

    Iowa State vs. UCF, college football matchup, game preview, key players, team analysis, betting odds, game prediction

    #Iowa #State #UCF #Primer

  • Iowa State in search of ‘aggressive’ offense ahead of UCF showdown


    No. 3 Iowa State’s nation-leading winning streak came to an end on Saturday after the Cyclones fell to West Virginia on the road. ISU was caught by the Mountaineers’ defensive aggressiveness, and the team doesn’t want to make the same mistake twice.

    The Cyclones scored a season-low 57 points on Saturday night, shooting its lowest 3-point figure of the season and turning the ball over 14 times. Iowa State has thrived on catching opponents with its intensity early, but the team wasn’t able to find its usual advantage over West Virginia.

    “I believe in the philosophy that everybody has a plan until you get punched in the mouth,” head coach T.J. Otzelberger said on Monday. “We can punch in the mouth by driving the ball to the paint. If you collapse the defense and you kick it out, I feel like you’re going to have an aggressive shot. And if you have an aggressive shot, I feel like you’re going to make it.”

    The relative passiveness offensively made clean shots more difficult to come by, particularly when Iowa State needed to work back from a deficit midway through the second half. The Cyclones fired from long-range, but couldn’t connect on the necessary shots to pull ahead.

    Iowa State shot 1-17 behind the 3-point line, coming off an 8-13 performance beyond the arc against then-No. 9 Kansas. ISU needed a few more makes from deep to fall, and Otzelberger attributes part of that variance to slower offensive tempo.

    The ball got stuck a little more often than the Cyclones would prefer, and the lack of movement and over-dribbling resulted in a season-high 14 steals given away. With the ball stagnant and shots not falling, West Virginia’s defense became all the more imposing.

    “It’s ultimately our ability to play for one another, get the ball into the paint, collapse the defense and then take the shots that come from it,” Otzelberger said.

    Part of that offensive flare was missing with forward Milan Momcilovic on the bench, expected to be out for around a month with a left hand injury. His absence has required other names to step up and fill the long-range shooting demand.

    Curtis Jones has been the team’s most reliable shooter from distance, hitting six triples over the past two games. ISU will also count on the likes of Tamin Lipsey, Keshon Gilbert and Nate Heise to connect from the 3-point line as well.

    Heise, in particular, has a history of a strong shooting touch but hasn’t found a rhythm in conference play. The Cyclones have instructed him to keep firing as ISU looks to respond offensively.

    “Just talking to people, they all have confidence in me,” Heise said. “So continuing to shoot with confidence and I think it will turn around.”

    UCF is coming off a hard-fought performance against then-No. 10 Houston, taking the Cougars down to the wire in Orlando. The Knights’ size and athleticism impacted Houston and made it difficult for one of the top teams in the conference to hit key shots.

    Iowa State knows it will get UCF’s best shot, too. But as the team looks to bounce back after just the second loss of the year, the Cyclones are prepared for the punch.

    “I feel like we’re built for it,” Gilbert said. “Obviously, we’re a real good team, top-5 in the nation. So just knowing that everybody is gonna come out with something to prove, everybody is gonna come out with their best punch. So just being prepared for that every night, night in and night out is real big for us.”



    Iowa State in search of ‘aggressive’ offense ahead of UCF showdown

    The Iowa State football team is gearing up for a highly anticipated showdown against UCF, and one thing is clear – they are in search of an ‘aggressive’ offense.

    After a tough loss in their season opener, the Cyclones are looking to bounce back strong and make a statement against a formidable UCF team. Head coach Matt Campbell emphasized the need for a more aggressive approach on offense, calling for his players to take more risks and push the tempo.

    “We need to be more aggressive in our playcalling and execution,” Campbell said. “We have the talent and the ability to make big plays, we just need to go out there and make it happen.”

    Quarterback Brock Purdy echoed his coach’s sentiments, stating that the team is focused on playing fast and attacking the defense from all angles.

    “We know what we’re capable of, and we’re not going to hold back,” Purdy said. “We’re going to be aggressive and take our shots when we see them.”

    With a tough UCF defense on the horizon, Iowa State knows they will need to bring their A-game. A more aggressive offense could be the key to securing a much-needed victory and getting their season back on track.

    Fans can expect an exciting and high-scoring matchup as Iowa State looks to unleash their ‘aggressive’ offense against UCF. The stage is set for a thrilling showdown, and the Cyclones are ready to rise to the challenge.

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    Iowa State football, aggressive offense, UCF showdown, college football, Iowa State Cyclones, UCF Knights, offense strategy, football game preview, Big 12 Conference, American Athletic Conference

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  • Scouting UCF: Cyclones look to regroup against feisty UCF squad – CycloneFanatic.com


    After a tough loss at West Virginia on Saturday, the No. 3 Iowa State Cyclones (15-2, 5-1) aim to regain their footing Tuesday night when they host the UCF Knights (12-5, 3-3) at Hilton Coliseum (7:00 p.m., ESPN+).

    The game marks UCF’s first-ever visit to Hilton and only the second meeting between the two programs. Iowa State secured a 60-52 victory in Orlando last season and will look to replicate that success at home, where they’ve been nearly unbeatable the last couple seasons.

    The Cyclones suffered their second loss of the season in Morgantown, snapping a 12-game winning streak. Their 56 points against West Virginia were the fewest they’ve scored in a game this season.

    Head coach T.J. Otzelberger expects his team to bounce back with the energy and support of a raucous Hilton Coliseum crowd, which has witnessed 28 consecutive Iowa State victories, the second-longest active home winning streak in the nation.

    Cyclones’ Power

    Curtis Jones has been a revelation for Iowa State this season. Initially a key reserve, Jones has stepped into the starting lineup due to injuries and hasn’t missed a beat. Averaging 19.3 points per game, the Big 12’s second-leading scorer has recorded seven 20-point performances. His scoring ability will be pivotal against a UCF team that allows a conference-worst 77.4 points per game.

    Keshon Gilbert continues to showcase his all-around game, leading Iowa State in minutes and assists. The senior guard has earned two Big 12 Player of the Week honors this season and was recently named to the Wooden Award Midseason Top 25 Watch List. Gilbert’s court vision and defensive intensity will be critical in setting the tone for the Cyclones. Look for Gilbert to get his offense going early to help set the tone for Iowa State.

    Defensive stalwart Tamin Lipsey anchors the Cyclones’ backcourt. The Preseason All-Big 12 First Team selection leads the team in steals and ranks second in assists. Lipsey’s ability to disrupt passing lanes and spark fast breaks will be key against UCF’s dynamic trio of guards.

    In the frontcourt, Saint Mary’s transfer Joshua Jefferson has been a force on the boards, leading the team in rebounding. Jefferson’s four Big 12 Newcomer of the Week awards underscore his impact on both ends of the court.

    Additionally, Dishon Jackson’s presence in the paint, highlighted by his team-leading 1.9 blocks per game, gives the Cyclones a formidable interior defense.

    UCF’s Challenges and Strengths

    UCF enters Tuesday’s matchup after a heartbreaking 69-68 loss to No. 8 Houston. The Knights led by one with under five seconds left, only for Houston to score on a baseline drive to secure the win. Despite the loss, UCF’s performance against a top-tier opponent demonstrates their potential to compete with the Big 12’s best.

    Keyshawn Hall leads UCF with 16.9 points and 6.8 rebounds per game. The 6-foot-7 guard has proven he can take over games, including a 40-point, seven rebound, and six assist explosion against Arizona State earlier this season. However, Hall struggled against Houston, managing just six points while grabbing 11 rebounds. Iowa State’s defense will look to contain Hall and limit his offensive impact. Look for Joshua Jefferson and Nate Heise to take this defensive assignment.

    Darius Johnson, a four-year starter, is UCF’s backbone. Averaging 14.9 points, 4.1 assists, and 2.7 steals per game, Johnson is a two-way threat. His ability to knock down three-pointers at a 41.7% clip makes him a constant perimeter danger. Jordan Ivy-Curry, the Knights’ third leading scorer, contributes 14.2 points per game and adds versatility to their backcourt.

    The Knights also boast an emerging talent in 7-foot-2 freshman Moustapha Thiam. A dominant shot-blocker, Thiam has already recorded three games with five or more blocks this season. His interior presence could disrupt Iowa State’s offense if the Cyclones struggle to establish spacing.Keys to the GameRebounding Battle: Brandton Chatfield has been a standout on the offensive glass, consistently earning the Cyclones second-chance opportunities.

    UCF, meanwhile, relies on Hall and Thiam to control the boards. Winning the rebounding battle will be crucial for both teams. The Cyclones have struggled rebounding early on in games, look for UCF to be very aggressive on the boards early. Three-Point Shooting: Iowa State’s abysmal 1-for-17 performance from beyond the arc against West Virginia was an anomaly.

    The Cyclones, led by Milan Momcilovic’s 44.3% three-point shooting, need to rediscover their rhythm from deep. With Momcilovic sidelined due to injury, other players must step up to fill the void. A guy like Nate Heise has proven that he can be formidable three-point shooter but has struggled so far this season (25%). Last season at Northern Iowa, Heise shot 35.6%. It’s only a matter of time till he gets going. Turnovers: Both teams thrive on forcing mistakes.

    Iowa State’s defensive pressure, spearheaded by Lipsey and Gilbert, averages 8.5 steals per game. UCF counters with Johnson, who ranks sixth nationally in steals per game. The team that takes better care of the ball will have a significant edge. Iowa State has been turnover prone the last couple games.

    In their last three games, the Cyclones have turned the ball over 15, 13, and 14 times. That’s a high margin for a team that averages less than eight a game. Tuesday’s game is a significant test for both programs. Iowa State’s 28-game home winning streak is tied for the second-longest in school history. Coach Otzelberger, who boasts an 86-37 record at Iowa State, is on track to become the first Cyclones coach to lead the team to the NCAA Tournament in each of his first four seasons.

    For UCF, the game represents an opportunity to solidify its place in the Big 12 and build their NCAA Tournament resume. The Knights have already secured three Quad 1 victories this season, including a win over Texas A&M in their opener. A win in Ames would further validate their ability to compete in one of college basketball’s toughest conferences.





    Scouting UCF: Cyclones look to regroup against feisty UCF squad – CycloneFanatic.com

    After a tough loss last week, the Iowa State Cyclones are looking to bounce back against a strong UCF squad. The Knights have been playing well this season and will provide a tough challenge for the Cyclones.

    UCF is known for their high-powered offense, led by quarterback Dillon Gabriel. Gabriel has been putting up big numbers this season and will test the Cyclones’ defense. Iowa State will need to tighten up their pass coverage and put pressure on Gabriel to have success in this game.

    On the other side of the ball, the Cyclones will need to establish their running game early to keep the UCF defense on their toes. Running back Breece Hall will be key in this aspect, as he looks to continue his impressive season.

    Overall, this game promises to be an exciting matchup between two talented teams. The Cyclones will need to regroup and come out strong to secure a victory against the feisty UCF squad. Stay tuned to CycloneFanatic.com for all the latest updates and analysis on this game.

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