Houston vs. UCF Short Report | Nov 25, 2023
FBC Mortgage Stadium
Orlando, FL
Nov 25, 2023
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Game Recap
The UCF Knights emerged victorious over the Houston Cougars with a final score of 27-13. Houston came out strong, with quarterback Donovan Smith connecting with Stephon Johnson for a 16-yard touchdown pass and Jack Martin adding a 32-yard field goal, giving the Cougars a 10-6 lead by the end of the first quarter. However, the Knights found their rhythm in the second quarter, leading to a touchdown pass from John Rhys Plumlee to Xavier Townsend, and managed to take a 13-10 lead into halftime.
In the second half, UCF's momentum continued as RJ Harvey scored two rushing touchdowns, further securing their lead at 27-10 by the end of the third quarter. Houston's attempts to close the gap were stifled by a formidable UCF defense, which included key sacks and an essential interception. Although Jack Martin managed another field goal for Houston in the fourth quarter, it was not enough to change the outcome. Outstanding plays by Plumlee and Harvey on offense, alongside defensive stalwarts Jason Johnson and Malachi Lawrence, highlighted UCF's dominance throughout the game.
Key Plays:
Donovan Smith (Houston Cougars)
Smith found Johnson deep in the end zone for a 16-yard touchdown pass, putting the Cougars on the board early and setting the tone for the first quarter.
John Rhys Plumlee (UCF Knights)
Despite a missed PAT, Plumlee's 8-yard rushing touchdown was crucial in narrowing Houston's initial lead to 7-6, demonstrating his dual-threat capability.
Jack Martin (Houston Cougars)
Martin's 32-yard field goal gave Houston a 10-6 lead, marking the end of the first quarter on a confident note for the Cougars.
Xavier Townsend (UCF Knights)
Townsend's spectacular 28-yard touchdown reception from Plumlee provided UCF with a 13-10 lead, shifting the game's momentum in favor of the Knights.
RJ Harvey (UCF Knights)
Harvey burst through the defense for a 21-yard touchdown run early in the third quarter, extending UCF's lead and showcasing his powerful running style.
RJ Harvey (UCF Knights)
Harvey's 2-yard touchdown run capped a crucial drive, pushing the Knights' lead to 27-10 and solidifying their control over the game.
Jack Martin (Houston Cougars)
Martin's 34-yard field goal in the fourth quarter was Houston's final score, reducing the deficit to 27-13 but ultimately falling short in their comeback effort.
Standout Players:
John Rhys Plumlee (UCF Knights, QB)
Plumlee displayed his prowess by completing 23 of 27 passes for 253 yards and a touchdown, supplementing his performance with 58 rushing yards and another touchdown, orchestrating UCF's dynamic offense.
RJ Harvey (UCF Knights, RB)
Harvey's 21 rushes for 136 yards and two touchdowns underpinned UCF's commanding second-half performance, breaking through Houston's defense with power and precision.
Stephon Johnson (Houston Cougars, WR)
Johnson was instrumental early on, catching six passes for 69 yards and a touchdown, giving Houston an early edge.
Jack Martin (Houston Cougars, K)
Martin contributed critically by making both field goal attempts, ensuring Houston remained competitive with his accuracy under pressure.
Jason Johnson (UCF Knights, LB)
Johnson's defensive acumen was on display with two solo tackles and two pivotal sacks, stifling Houston's offense.
Malachi Lawrence (UCF Knights, DE)
Lawrence's presence was felt with a solo tackle and a sack, consistently applying pressure to Houston's quarterback and disrupting their offensive rhythm.
Donovan Smith (Houston Cougars, QB)
Smith managed 161 passing yards and a touchdown but faced significant pressure, resulting in multiple sacks as UCF's defense tightened.
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Houston Texans
10
0
0
3
13
UCF Knights
6
7
14
0
27
