**Week 9 Recap: BYU Tops UCF Knights 37-24**

ZAGO 𝕸𝖊𝖉𝖎𝖆

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Post on Oct 27, 2024

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Week 9 Recap: BYU Tops UCF Knights 37-24

The BYU Cougars continued their impressive 2023 season with a hard-fought 37-24 victory over the UCF Knights in Orlando. The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows throughout the contest. Ultimately, BYU's defense proved to be the difference, limiting the high-powered UCF offense to just 24 points.

A Tight First Half

The first half saw both teams trading touchdowns. BYU's offense, led by quarterback Kedon Slovis, struck first with a 15-yard touchdown pass to tight end Isaac Rex. UCF responded with a touchdown of their own, a 12-yard run by quarterback John Rhys Plumlee. The teams traded field goals before the Cougars closed out the half with another touchdown, this time a 1-yard run by running back Miles Davis. At halftime, BYU held a narrow 17-10 lead.

BYU Seizes Control in the Second Half

The Cougars came out of the locker room with a vengeance. They opened the third quarter with a 14-yard touchdown run by running back Aidan Robbins, extending their lead to 24-10. UCF refused to go away, however. They scored a touchdown on a 5-yard pass from Plumlee to receiver Kobe Payson, narrowing the BYU lead to 24-17.

But BYU was able to hold off the Knights' comeback attempt. A 38-yard field goal by kicker Justen Smith and a 36-yard touchdown pass from Slovis to receiver Kody Epps put the Cougars up 37-17. UCF added a late touchdown to make the final score 37-24, but it was too little too late.

BYU Defense Shines

The BYU defense was the key to the victory. The Cougars forced two turnovers, including an interception by linebacker Jackson Kaufusi. They also sacked Plumlee three times and held the Knights to just 3.4 yards per carry. The BYU defense was particularly impressive in the second half, limiting UCF to just 7 points.

Takeaways

The win over UCF was a big one for BYU. The Cougars are now 6-2 on the season and remain in contention for a spot in the College Football Playoff. The win also showed the BYU defense is capable of playing at a high level. The Cougars will need to continue their strong play on both sides of the ball if they want to reach their goals this season.

Looking Ahead

BYU will next face the San Diego State Aztecs on the road. The Aztecs are a tough opponent, and it will be a crucial game for the Cougars. With the momentum of this win, BYU will look to carry that energy into San Diego and continue their impressive season.