Bolstered by roster continuity and key defensive returns, Scott Frost’s squad aims to shatter middling preseason projections and extend the conference’s streak of parity.
Head coach Scott Frost has a history of turning things around in his second year at UCF, with his first tenure producing a "National Championship" in his sophomore campaign.
Throughout the offseason, both players and staff have talked about the level of focus in the building and expectations rising because of the continuity of the team.
Whether you're hearing from a member of the offensive line unit, receiving corps, or defensive secondary, the message has remained the same - be the best in the conference.
On Wednesday, First and 16 - A Big 12 Podcast, posted a question asking who is the "under the radar" squad in the conference, before answering "and why is it UCF."
The Big 12 has seen the most parity of any Power 4 conference over the past few seasons, with a different program claiming the title each of the past six years.
The Knights are looking to continue this trend, and build on last year's minor successes.
However, most preseason predictions have the Knights ranked in the middle of the pack or bottom-third of the conference.
Beating these expectations starts with the leadership of transfer quarterback Alonza Barnett III, who recently talked about this "door wide open" mentality and why he believes UCF can compete for the conference title.
"The one thing that's being reiterated is six championship teams in the past six years," starting quarterback Alonza Barnett III said in early-August. "So why not, why can't it be us? We have the talent."
Barnett went onto say that the team is taking it day-by-day and focusing on making small improvements to get ready for the upcoming season.
Frost has echoed his starting quarterback's remarks multiple times.
"I'm really confident," Frost said at Big 12 media day. "Everything just feels so much better than it did before."
Defensive coordinator Alex Grinch talked about the improved effort levels he has seen from members of the team, saying that the coaching staff can hone in on more specific teachings rather than harping on playing hard.
With the recent landmark court ruling regarding 2022 high school graduates and additional eligibility, Grinch's defense also got a big addition with Cole Kozlowski's pending return.
Earlier this week, Kozlowski appeared at UCF's practice in street clothes before gaining a different-colored jersey, and on Monday, appearing in the Knights' normal white practice uniforms.
Last season was Kozlowski's first at the Power 4 level, and he capitalized, earning All-Big 12 Third Team honors and serving as a vocal leader of the defense.
His return means Grinch will have a dangerous 1-2 combination of linebackers in the middle, with Kozlowski and Lewis Carter manning the defensive front.
UCF's talent is in place for the team to make a run, but it will come down to how the new additions gel with returning pieces.
