Freshman UCF WR Hornes Scores First Career Receiving TD

UCF's strong offensive performance on Saturday was squandered by an inability to close in the second half that has haunted the Knights over the past few weeks.

But, the Knights' receiving corps continues to display it's depth, with different players getting their opportunities each week.

Freshman wideout Tyren Hornes scored his first career touchdown against Oklahoma State, hauling in three catches for 25 yards and the score.

With just 15 seconds to play in the second quarter, Hornes got free on the left side of the endzone, hauling in the 3-yard score to even it up heading into halftime.

Hornes first began to turn heads at UCF's fall camp, converting on multiple high-level targets from Alonza Barnett III, who had good things to say about the freshman wideout.

"Really good ball skills," Barnett told media in mid-August. "You know, he'll go up, catch the ball. He can also run by you."

As a junior, Hornes gained major traction on the recruiting trail following his MVP performance at the All-American camp, picking up offers from big-name programs like Georgia, Florida State and Auburn shortly after.

Hornes rode this momentum through his senior year, catching 42 passes for 646 yards and nine touchdowns in ten games.

One year after his MVP, Hornes committed to UCF at the same event, where he once again posted a strong performance.

Prior to the event, Hornes was ranked the No. 23 wide receiver in the class, but after a touchdown and multiple impressive receptions, he left as the No. 12 player, according to ESPN.

This boost in rankings made Hornes the highest-ranked recruit in UCF history.

Thus far, Hornes has displayed the ability to serve as a deep-threat, nearly getting free for multiple big catches.

As Keyone "Lights Out" Jenkins continues to take on the quarterbacking duties, pushing the ball downfield is an area where the Knights need to improve.

Duane Thomas Jr., who led UCF in receiving a season ago, is yet to suit up due to a lingering injury.

When he returns, the Knights will gain another receiver who can cause damage at multiple levels of the field.

Entering the bye week, UCF should be able to get healthier and prepare for a push in the second half of the season. 

After competitive showings against both Houston and Oklahoma State, the Knights have their toughest matchup yet following the bye - No. 8 BYU, who has a big opportunity against No. 2 Notre Dame this weekend.