ORLANDO — The offseason ahead is shaping up to be one of the most crucial in the history of UCF football. The Knights faced a challenging conclusion to their season with a disappointing 28-14 loss to Utah at FBC Mortgage Stadium, marking their eighth setback in just nine games.
The ongoing transformation of the program took a turn for the worse this season, as UCF struggles after moving to the Big 12. With a 4-8 record, the Knights now find themselves at a crossroads similar to that of the last two years when they transitioned from the American Athletic Conference to the Power Five.
UCF’s head coach, Gus Malzahn, faces significant decisions ahead, notably whether to retain or replace coordinators. Following a disappointing season and seven games with defensive coordinator Ted Roof, Malzahn dismissed Roof, creating urgency to fill that position. Malzahn may also need to consider changes to the offensive team, particularly with offensive coordinator Tim Harris Jr., whose future is uncertain with speculation mounting about his potential candidacy for the Florida International head coach position.
As a wave of departures looms, including standout players like RJ Harvey, the Knights will have to revisit the transfer portal to restore their roster while balancing a high school recruiting class that currently ranks low in the Big 12. Reinventing a roster can yield positive results, as seen with Indiana, but it can also lead to failure, as evidenced by other coaches who have experienced turbulence.
The program is at yet another juncture. If UCF chooses to retain Malzahn, it could well be his final opportunity to realize the vision he set out with four years ago. However, if the administration opts for a clean slate, it risks a lengthy rebuilding period that could hinder progress.
Despite the challenges, UCF possesses several advantages, including a prime location in Central Florida, an abundance of local high school talent, a significant student body, and a tradition of rising above past performance levels. While the coming offseason is critical, it also presents an opportunity for renewal and revitalization. The Knights have the potential to reclaim their rightful place in college football; but to do so, they must address their issues head-on during this pivotal period.