Dunnam etched his name in UCF lore with three interceptions, including a pick-six. His historic defensive performance electrified the Space Game despite the tough loss.
Despite the heartbreaking 30-27 loss against Houston in the Space Game this past Friday, UCF senior cornerback Phillip Dunnam had the game of his career. Dunnam was a ball hawk, intercepting Houston quarterback Conner Weigman three times, including one 43 yard pick-six.
He became the first player in UCF history to record three interceptions in the same game and his performance earned him Big 12 Co-Defensive Player of the Week honors.
Dunnam's first theft came towards the end of the first quarter, stalling out a productive drive from Houston. Dunnam jumped a slant route on a fourth and short, taking Houston out of field goal range and helping the Knights maintain a slight 3-0 lead.
Just before halftime, Dunnam struck again, intercepting Weigman for a second time and taking this one the other way for six. This play was a huge momentum shifter for the Knights, as Dunnam's score extended the lead to 24-14 just before halftime.
In the second half, Dunnam struck again, registering his third pick of the game. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to get the win, but Dunnam deserves his flowers.
Junior defensive tackle RJ Jackson Jr. spoke to media Monday about Dunnam.
"That was an unbelievable day," Jackson Jr. said. "When you know you got guys like that playing in the back end, it makes your job of front like that much easier."
Dunnam also served as a spark for UCF's offense, displaying elusiveness on his interception returns. His returns generated 81 yards, setting the Knights up in plus territory.
Dunnam began his career at Indiana where he was in and out of the starting lineup. As a sophomore, Dunnam intercepted current Philadelphia Eagles backup and standout Ohio State quarterback Kyle McCord.
As a junior, Dunnam took his talents to FAU where he earned preseason College Football Network All-AAC First Team honors. Dunnam shined in his new environment, logging two double-digit tackle games and three interceptions.
The Knights will need Dunnam to stay locked in as they look ahead to their most challenging match-up of the season; a road-trip to Lubbock, Texas to take on No. 8 Texas Tech.
