UCF Press Release

October 25, 2002

ORLANDO - One of the things UCF worked on during Thursday's practice was timing, all the way down to when to exit the field, as they concluded their workout just seconds before a heavy downpour. The team, in helmets and shoulder pads, conducted an hour-and-a-half workout making final preparations for the homecoming game against Akron.

For the second consecutive game, UCF will be facing a team that is very productive offensively and are led by an efficient quarterback in Charlie Frye.

"Every week we have to come in with the same mind set," said free safety Peter Sands. "As a defense, we come in every week knowing we are facing a great team with a great quarterback."

The challenge for Sands and his defensive teammates will be substantial, but not insurmountable.

"He (Frye) is a good quarterback," added Sands. "We have watched a lot of film on him and have worked hard in practice all week. We believe there are some things we can do that will be effective in stopping him."

The Golden Knights allowed a season-high 300 yards rushing last week and now face Akron, which is coming off a 440 yard rushing performance against Liberty.

"First of all," said Sands, we have to tackle better than we did last week. We need to get back to basics just doing our assignments and using proper techniques."

The two teams will square off on Saturday at the Citrus Bowl with kickoff at 4 p.m.
 

Other notes -
For the second time this season, strong safety Atari Bigby was awarded the team's Big Stick Award. During his address to the team he stated that he was sharing the award with Peter Sands. Bigby also won the award after the game at Arizona State.

Peter Sands is currently second on the team with 68 tackles and has led the team on two occasions.

After not recording a sack in the first game of the season, the UCF defense has recorded at least one every game since. The team was led by defensive end Rashad Jeanty who recorded two against Toledo.

 

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