Central Florida held off a late charge from Florida International Saturday, winning 33-20 in their home opener after jumping out to 23-0 lead.
In the first half, the Knights had three unanswered touchdowns and safety off a bad snap that went over the head of FIU punter Josh Brisk. The UCF defense also seemed to have the Panthers' offense stumped after they only compiled two first downs and 26 total yards.
But in the second, the Panthers would get a second-wind lead by two touchdowns from running back Darian Mallary. Ultimately, though, FIU would be done in by quarterback Jake Medlock's inaccuracy as the sophomore signal caller completed only 13 of his 28 passes.
The double-headed Central Florida rushing attack also played a big part in closing out the game with Storm Johnson and Brynn Harvey combining for 151 yards on 34 carries.
Box Score Hero: UCF WR J.J. Worton had 94 yards on five receptions including a 10-yard touchdown from WR Jeff Godfrey out of the wildcat wildknight.
Rankings Ramifications: Neither of these teams will be on the AP's radar anytime soon.
But Did They Cover: Central Florida favored by 15.
For More On This Game: For additional coverage on both of these teams, stay plugged into SB Nation Tampa Bay.
Next Week's Schedule: Florida International gets their first shot at a ranked team next Saturday when No. 19 Louisville heads into town while Central Florida try their chances against Missouri at home.
