UCF Escapes With 33-32 Victory Over Kansas, Watson Injured

Despite losing standout running back Duke Watson early on in Saturday's game against Kansas, UCF pulled out a 33-32 victory.

Redshirt freshman tight end Caden Piening was the hero, scoring a game-winning touchdown with just one second remaining to secure the win and avoid a 19-point choke.

On second down from the Kansas 15-yard line, starting quarterback Alonza Barnett III targeted Piening, allowing the Ohio native to draw a pass interference penalty.

On the following play, Barnett went right back to his 6-foot-5 target, connecting with Piening on a 6-yard out route to the left pylon.

Starting kicker Will Stone made good on a missed extra-point attempt earlier in the game, tacking on UCF's 33rd and game-winning point.

This victory is a good bounce-back win for the program after laying an egg against Baylor in the previous week, and moves UCF back above .500 (5-4).

It also marks UCF's first road victory since 2024, ending a 12-game losing streak away from the Bounce House.

Getting Barnett back and healthy was a big reason for UCF's victory, as the former James Madison standout pushed the ball downfield, while using his legs to move the chains.

Entering the season, Barnett's dual-threat ability was something that head coach Scott Frost and his staff raved about, but a lingering hamstring injury and cracked rib suffered against Pittsburgh had limited his opportunities in the run game.

Saturday's victory was a different story however, with Barnett rushing for a season-high 36 yards.

His longest scamper of the night was a 22-yard run, Barnett's best of the season, and signified some serious improvements in his health.

Barnett also had his best passing day as a Knight, throwing for 251 yards and two touchdowns.

An early interception on UCF's first offensive snap forecasted another strugglefest-type game, but Barnett rebounded from that point on, far outplaying Kansas quarterback Isaiah Marshall through the air.

In the third quarter, Barnett found Monmouth transfer wide receiver Josh Derry for a 44-yard score, extending the Knights' lead to 26-7.

But, Kansas would score 26 points unanswered from this point, flipping the script and forcing Barnett to make magic on the final drive of the game.

Marshall deserves a lot of credit for his play down the stretch, as he terrorized UCF's defensive front with his legs, running for 125 yards and two scores.

Nevertheless, it was an impressive victory for the Knights, and gives head coach Scott Frost his first road win since returning to the program.

UCF looks to carry over the momentum into next Saturday's matchup at home against Arizona State.