Offensive Struggles Lead to 26-13 UCF Defeat

Once again, UCF failed to carry over last week's momentum into Saturday's matchup with Arizona State, falling 26-13 at home, and moving to 5-5 on the season.

With two matchups left, the Knights are still seeking an elusive sixth win, a threshold that head coach Scott Frost is looking to hit for the first time since his return to the program.

After the FAA flying debacle led to a delayed 5:30 kickoff time, UCF's offense came out slow, scoring just seven points through deep into the fourth quarter.

Four punts, two by each team, highlighted the first quarter, with the Knights defense holding Arizona State's potent rushing attack in check.

But, early in the second, the Sun Devils capped off a 10-play, 74-yard drive with a goalline score, taking the first lead.

UCF's rushing attack quickly responded on the following drive, with secondary tailback Landen Chambers breaking two 14-yard runs on back-to-back snaps.

But, senior kicker Will Stone was unable to capitalize on a 34-yard attempt, missing just right of the uprights.

Following an Arizona State field goal, Chambers continued his impressive first half, finding the endzone from two yards out, and giving the Knights their first score of the game.

However, the Sun Devils continued to tack on points, adding another two field goals, and taking advantage of an Alonza Barnett III fumble in plus territory.

Barnett had a decent statistical day, completing 21-of-30 passing attempts for 258 yards and a garbage time touchdown, but he did not look like the dynamic playmaker that Knights fans saw against Kansas.

In his defense, the pass protection from Barnett's offensive line was not great, as Arizona State got a lot of pressure and got to UCF's quarterback for three sacks.

The lone passing touchdown of the day came with just over two minutes to play, as Barnett found standout freshman receiver Tyren Hornes for a 40-yard bomb.

Hornes has looked the part as a four-star recruit, serving as UCF's second-leading receiver this season.

But, Monmouth transfer Josh Derry continues to separate himself from the rest of the Knights' pass-catchers, recording another big day against Arizona State.

With 137 yards, Derry has eclipsed the century-mark in three games this season, while recording 15 grabs for 280 yards over his past two outings.

Like Hornes, Derry got free for a big catch from Barnett, hauling in a 46-yard reception.

But, ultimately, UCF's inability to capitalize in the redzone, and unfortunate turnovers led to a defeat.

The Knights are back in action on Friday against Iowa State, who is coming off a dominant 41-13 victory over Cincinnati over the weekend.