Battle of the Giant Killers (2-0 Week 0)
(NCAAF) Boise State vs. UCF,
Point Spread: -3.50 | -109.00 UCF (Home)
Result: Win
The Boise State Broncos finished last season at 5-2, in what was Andy Avalos’ first year as head coach. They will look for some consistency at quarterback this season as both Hank Bachmeier and Jack Sears were injured last season. The Bronco's offense put up 33.9 points a game. George Holani rushed for over 1000 yards in 2019 but missed 20220 with an injury, returns to the backfield. They return both wideouts and tight end. The defense was not great last season as they allowed 30 or more points in four of their seven games and 27.1 points a game overall. They will have experience on that side of the ball as they return nine starters from last season.

The UCF Knights will have a new look on the sidelines as they turn the reigns over to former Auburn head coach Gus Malzahn. Last season, the Knights finished with a 6-4 overall record and 5-3 in AAC play. They had a high-powered offense last season as they put up 568 yards and 42.2 points a game. Both of those ranked in the top-10 in the country. They return Dillon Gabriel at quarterback. Last season he threw for 3,570 yards, 32 touchdowns, and only 4 interceptions. They need to retool the backfield as both of their top two backs from last season graduated. They have both receivers back and have some transfers that have played for Malzahn before. Like Boise State, their defense needs to step up and show improvement as they allowed almost 500 yards and 33.2 points a game last season. They return nine starters on the defensive side of the ball. Transfers Tiger Big Kat Bryant(Auburn) and Ricky Barber(W. Kentucky) are expected to improve the defensive front.

Two Group of five powerhouses square off to start the season. UCF is one of the highest-scoring teams in FBS and that shouldn't change with Mahlzahn in charge. The Knights return one of the top QB’s in the country in Dillon Gabriel. He could have a huge day throwing the ball as Boise lost their top two CB’s from last season. The Broncos' offense was inconsistent last season and quarterback Hank Bachmeier recorded one or zero TD passes in all but one of his games last year. Also, the weather could be a factor for Boise playing in Florida.

Play on UCF.