Knights Edge Horned Frogs 21-13 in Orlando

Knights Take Control in Orlando

The UCF Knights defeated the TCU Horned Frogs 21-13 on Saturday, September 26, at Acrisure Bounce House in Orlando. The home team improved its record to 3-1, while the visiting Horned Frogs fell to 2-2. With an attendance of 43,212, the contest featured a back-and-forth first half before UCF pulled away in the fourth quarter to secure the win.

The game concluded with UCF holding a seven-point lead, a margin established by Landen Chambers' rushing touchdown in the final period.

Early Exchange Sets Stage

The scoring began immediately in the first quarter. Taevion Swint opened the game for TCU with a 13-yard run, followed by an extra point kick from Will Stone. UCF responded quickly to tie the game at 7-7 when Jeremy Payne capped a drive with a one-yard rush, converted by Nate McCashland.

The first quarter ended in a dead heat, showcasing early offensive production from both squads. TCU regained the lead in the second quarter when McCashland kicked a 29-yard field goal, putting the Horned Frogs up 10-7. However, the Knights erased that deficit before halftime.

Keyone Jenkins found Caden Piening for a 19-yard touchdown pass, with Stone adding the extra point to give UCF a 14-10 lead entering the break.

Late Surge Decides Game

The third quarter saw TCU narrow the gap again. McCashland drilled a 45-yard field goal to cut UCF's lead to one point, making the score 14-13. The game remained tight through the start of the fourth quarter until UCF struck decisively.

Landen Chambers rushed for a one-yard touchdown, and Will Stone’s successful extra point kick extended the Knights' advantage to 21-13. TCU failed to score in the final period, allowing UCF to manage the clock and protect the lead.

Statistical Breakdown

Keyone Jenkins was the primary threat for UCF, completing 19 of 20 passes for 160 yards and one touchdown. Duke Watson led the Knights on the ground with 57 yards on 13 carries, while Josh Derry caught three passes for 41 yards. For TCU, Jaden Craig completed 25 of 40 attempts for 310 yards, though he also threw two interceptions.

Jeremy Payne rushed for 48 yards and a touchdown on 15 carries, and Jordan Dwyer led the receiving corps with five catches for 100 yards. The statistical disparity in passing efficiency and rushing yards for UCF proved decisive in the final margin.

Sources

ESPN