Offensive tackle Henry Tabansi outlines a relentless vertical attack as the Knights leverage a revamped roster and veteran coaching to dominate opponents through explosive, high-yardage plays.
The UCF Knights' offense isn't only aiming to put points on the board; they want to demoralize the defense with big-yardage plays multiple times a game.
"We really want to emphasize imposing our will on another team," UCF offensive tackle Henry Tabansi told Sons of UCF at UCF's local media day. "Like we don't want to be passive at all."
Tabansi said the team wants to complete two to three 40-yard passes a game. Those are high expectations for a team that completed those plays infrequently last season.
Former Knights quarterback Tayven Jackson threw a 40-yard-plus pass in four of his 11 games. He struggled to replicate those throws over the rest of the game, either overthrowing his receiver or having passes deflected.
It didn't help that the receiving corps weren't consistent deep threats. Five receivers eclipsed 40-plus yards as their longest reception, but most were one-off scenarios.
Part of that inconsistency lies with the offensive line, ensuring there is a strong pocket to give the play enough time to develop. There's a lot that goes into making these deep shots a consistent attack.
UCF has a much-improved roster to accomplish its goal this season. Alonza Barnett III is the team's starting quarterback, Josh Derry looks like he can be a No. 1 receiver and offensive line coach AJ Blazek is rejuvenating the offensive line.
Tabansi said Blazek wants the offensive line to become a staple for the program. Blazek has had success at his previous coaching stops, transforming North Dakota State's and Wisconsin's lines into one of the best in their conferences.
The Buffalo transfer is playing a key role in the Knights' revamped protection. He said when he's out on the field, he's ready to get the team where they need to go.
"I get on my field, put my helmet on, and it's like I put on a mask," Tabansi said. "And I just do what I have to do to really help the team get where we need to go."
Tabansi was one of the best offensive linemen in the MAC. He ranked as the third-highest graded offensive tackle in the conference, according to PFSN College, earning a 75.3 grade.
Buffalo finished fourth in total offense (4,366), including ranking third in passing offense (2,748) with Tabansi starting. The 6-foot-5 offensive lineman started 12 games at left tackle for the Bulls last season as a redshirt sophomore.
Coming from a non-Power Five conference, Tabansi said he wants to prove himself in a tougher conference against the best of the best. He has a chance to live up to his expectations in his first season at UCF, helping re-ignite the spark of a once-dynamic offense.
