TCU is switching its focus to Big 12 play with an opener in Orlando against UCF. Despite the loss on their record, the Horned Frogs feel that they are right in the mix for the conference crown.
After wrapping up non-conference play with a 31-7 win over Arkansas State, TCU is putting all of its focus into its latest campaign within the Big 12.
The Horned Frogs put together a 2-1 record outside of the league and are currently on a two-game winning streak following an opening 15-10 loss to North Carolina in Dublin.
The conference slate for the Horned Frogs gets underway with its first-ever trip to Orlando to duel against UCF.
Much like TCU, the Knights posted a 2-1 mark in non-conference action, with that lone loss coming to an ACC squad away from its home stadium.
Pitt outlasted UCF in a rainy 12-7 chess match that took place in Pittsburgh in the Knights' second outing.
While both of these teams suffered an early loss, the beginning of Big 12 play signals a fresh start and a renewed opportunity to fulfill preseason goals.
That includes making a run toward the conference crown, which is currently on the head of Texas Tech, and TCU especially feels that it is in the mix heading into its Big 12 opener.
"Big 12 football is wide open," expressed Horned Frogs cornerback Vernon Glover during the team's weekly press conference.
"We are trying to go get us one [Big 12 win], so we're really excited."
Although TCU is feeling confident about its position fresh off of the two-game surge, it has to set its sights first and foremost on UCF, which is also seeking the pivotal first win.
"It's a good environment, great fan support," said TCU head coach Sonny Dykes. "It's going to be loud and those guys will be excited to play."
"We're going to have to do a really good job of communicating...just focus on doing our job consistently, stay kind of emotionally stable and just understand it's going to be a 60-minute football game."
For Dykes, there is a piece for TCU that has emerged as a serious indicator of the success the Horned Frogs have and profiles as a huge x-factor against the Knights.
That is none other than transfer quarterback Jaden Craig.
"I think Jaden [Craig] has gotten better every week. I think that a lot of those young receivers have improved and are getting better and he's starting to get things figured out with those guys."
Getting things figured out is an understatement for the turnaround that Craig has showcased since being held under 200 yards and without a touchdown by the Tar Heels.
Since that initial loss, Craig has racked up around 750 yards, seven touchdowns and only thrown one interception.
Adding in his totals from the debut, he has just over 900 passing yards, which leads the Big 12 through three weeks.
Time will tell if those beliefs about the openness of the Big 12 is fact or fiction, but TCU will look to make its first step toward the top of the conference with an opening win over UCF.
The Knights welcome the Horned Frogs to Orlando on Saturday, Sept. 26 at 2:30 p.m. CT.
