UCF Football Embraces New Era with Inaugural Big 12 Schedule in 2023
UCF football is gearing up for an exciting new chapter as they prepare for their first-ever Big 12 season this fall. With Gus Malzahn leading the team and quarterback John Rhys Plumlee ready to make his mark, the Knights are preparing to face a series of new challenges, including a brand new slate of Power 5 teams and some formidable opponents they are already familiar with.
The 2023 season kicks off for UCF at home on August 31 against Kent State. The Knights have a 12-game schedule lined up for the fall, with six games at home and six on the road. Some of those road trips will take UCF fans to new and exciting destinations like Lawrence, Kansas, and Lubbock, Texas. One particularly intriguing matchup will see UCF travel to Oklahoma to face former Knights quarterback Dillon Gabriel, who transferred out of the program in November 2021.
In the 2022 season, the Knights finished with a solid 9-5 overall record and an impressive 6-2 record in their final season in the American Athletic Conference. This winning season earned them a spot in the AAC Championship Game, where they unfortunately fell short against Tulane with a final score of 45-28. To add to the disappointment, UCF’s season came to an end with a heartbreaking 30-13 loss to Duke in the Military Bowl.
As UCF enters the Big 12, they are well aware that the level of competition will increase significantly. The Big 12 is known for its tough teams and fierce rivalries, and UCF is ready to embrace the challenge. With a talented roster and the leadership of Coach Malzahn, the Knights are determined to make their mark in their new conference.
The upcoming season will not only provide UCF with the opportunity to face off against some of the top teams in the country but also to showcase their own abilities and prove that they belong among the nation’s elite. The Knights will be counting on the dynamic play of quarterback John Rhys Plumlee, who is poised to lead the team on and off the field.
Fans can expect an exciting and competitive season as UCF takes on the Big 12. The team’s schedule is a mix of familiar foes and new rivals, ensuring there will be no shortage of intense matchups. UCF fans will undoubtedly be eagerly awaiting each game, especially the chance to see their team in action against some of the most storied programs in college football.
The move to the Big 12 not only brings new opponents and challenges but also elevates the profile of UCF football. The Knights will now have the opportunity to showcase their talents on a bigger stage, gaining national exposure and recognition. This move is a testament to the growth and success of the UCF football program in recent years.
As the Knights prepare for their inaugural Big 12 season, there is an air of excitement and anticipation surrounding the program. With a talented roster, a proven head coach, and a passionate fan base, UCF is ready to make a statement in their new conference. The 2023 season promises to be a memorable one for UCF football as they embark on this new era in their history.
