October 17, 2002

ORLANDO - UCF continued preparations for its first-ever MAC home opener on Wednesday, holding a two-and-a-half hour workout in full pads. Individual position meetings and film study preceded practice, which was then put into action with the implementation of the game plan on the field.
The Golden Knights will be facing a very balanced attack when Toledo comes to Orlando, as they average 216 yards on the ground and 232 in the air. The defensive front offers the first line of resistance in stopping the MAC's No. 4 rated offense. One of the people responsible for having his troops ready is UCF Defensive Line Coach Lorenzo Costantini.

"The toughest part about preparing for Toledo is that they go from a two-point stance offensively," said Costantini. "It is a little awkward, especially with how much they run the football. This group is huge across the front, biggest we have played all season. The biggest thing for us is to recognize plays and maintain good pad level."

Costantini's players, who are coming off a four-sack performance against WMU, face a big test, one that comes at a critical time of the season.

"We are starting to gel," added Costantini. "That is exactly what the defensive line needs to be successful. We are more stout than we have ever been. This is the biggest line we have had here, which has really helped us against the run and we are becoming a much better pass rushing team. When we shut down the run and force a team to pass, we are starting to get to the quarterback."
UCF and Toledo will kick off Saturday, Oct 19 at 6:00 p.m.
   
Other notes -
One of the key players that UCF will need to be concerned with is senior tailback William Bratton who is averaging 5.8 yards a carry and has found the endzone nine times, The Golden Knights defense has allowed only six rushing touchdowns all season.

Toledo has five players who have rushed for more than 100 yards this season.

The UCF defense is giving up 88 yards a game rushing, nearly 128 yards less than the Rockets ground game averages.
 

Return to Home