UCF QB Blake Bortles has to keep cool under Missouri pass rush

Bortles will take on a defense that has forced nine fumbles in 2012.

Missouri vs. UCF 2012 odds: The Knights are favored in Saturday's game

The UCF Knights are 2.5-points favorites over the Missouri Tigers on Saturday.

UCF Needs Defense To Improve Vs. Missouri

The Central Florida Knights are readying to play the Missouri Tigers on Saturday at BH Networks Stadium.

The Knights come into the game with a 2-1 record, losing only to the Ohio State Buckeyes. However, Central Florida needs to improve its defense after allowing 20 points to the Florida International Panthers.

Cornerback A.J. Bouye knows for the Knights to have a chance against the high-powered Tigers, his side of the ball -- especially the secondary -- has to step up, according to the Orlando Sentinel.

"We're focusing on tackling, communicating more and just making smart plays," Bouye said. "The thing I feel we need to focus most on is communication, because [against Ohio State] we weren't really on the same page."

Head coach George O' Leary echoed his players' sentiments when talking about the entire defense.

"Communication skills have to improve," O'Leary said. "Not just them, but from the linebackers forward and from the linebackers back. That's one thing that we've put a stress on with these couple days of practice."

The Knights have a few days to get it all fixed before Missouri comes to town.

For more on the Knights, please be sure to check out our College Football Hub and SB Nation Tampa Bay for all the latest news and updates.

Missouri Vs. UCF Preview: Knights Look To Improve To 3-1

The UCF Knights will host the Missouri Tigers on Saturday as they look to improve to 3-1 on the year.