As of the 2023 season, the UCF Knights are continuing to build on their legacy with a focus on expanding their reach and enhancing their performance in the AAC. Under the guidance of head coach Gus Malzahn, who joined the team in 2021, UCF is working to harness its talent and leverage its successful recruiting strategies to compete at a high level. The Knights are also preparing for an exciting transition to the Big 12 Conference, which will begin in the 2023-2024 academic year. This move is expected to elevate the program's profile, providing more visibility and competitive opportunities against some of the top teams in college football. The Knights have been active in recruiting promising athletes, with a focus on both offensive and defensive units, aiming to maintain their status as a powerhouse in college football. Their home games at FBC Mortgage Stadium are known for their electric atmosphere, drawing enthusiastic crowds and creating a strong home-field advantage. As the season progresses, UCF continues to engage with its fanbase through various events, including tailgating and community outreach programs, further solidifying its connection with the local community. With a bright future ahead, UCF Knights football is poised for continued success on and off the field.

UCF Knights Football History

The UCF Knights football program, representing the University of Central Florida in Orlando, has a rich history that dates back to its inception in 1979. Initially competing in the NCAA Division III, the team moved to Division II in 1983 and then to Division I-AA (now known as the FCS) in 1985. The program achieved its first significant milestone by winning the 1990 NCAA Division II Football Championship, marking UCF's emergence on the national stage. In 1996, the Knights transitioned to Division I-A (now known as FBS) and joined Conference USA in 2005. UCF gained national attention with its explosive offense and dynamic gameplay, leading to bowl game appearances in the mid-2000s and solidifying its reputation within the FBS. The pinnacle of their history came in 2017 when UCF claimed the National Championship after an undefeated season, which included a victory in the Peach Bowl against Auburn. This success propelled the Knights into the national spotlight and established them as a competitive program in the group of five conferences. As UCF continued its ascent, they joined the American Athletic Conference (AAC) in 2013, further enhancing their schedule and competitiveness in the college football landscape.