UCF vs. MARSHALL
9-18-02
Richard Wells
Knightsnews Staff Writer
UCF, stymied, stunned, and left for dead following last week's embarrassing loss to Arizona State, must climb Mount Leftwich in order to avoid falling to 0 - 3 on the season. Marshall is coming off a 47 - 21 loss on Thursday to Virginia Tech which saw their high-powered offense, led by QB Byron Leftwich, shut down by the Hokies' defense until the fourth quarter.
UCF looks to make a statement in their first Mid-America Conference game. The question is, do they really have a chance?
We'll take an in-depth look at the matchup in the days leading up to Friday's game.
As UCF enters its first Mid-America Conference game Friday against Marshall, Knightsnews.com would like to kick off a new weekly segment of our website devoted to analyzing key matchups between UCF and its opponent. Components such as Running Game vs. Run Defense, Special Teams, and Intangibles will make up this section, and we will offer a prediction at the end of the column.
UCF Rushing vs. Marshall Rush Defense
UCF ranks near the bottom of the MAC on the ground, averaging only 1.8 yards per attempt. Marshall's defense is coming off a pounding from Virginia Tech which saw
tailbacks Kevin Jones and Lee Suggs each garner over 100 yards on the ground. Look for UCF to try to pound tailback Alex Haynes early and often.
Edge: Even
UCF Passing vs. Marshall Pass Defense
Ryan Schneider has looked equal parts masterful and befuddled against opposing defenses thus far. Wideout Doug Gabriel has been one of the lone bright spots for the Knights. Marshall's pass defense ranks second in the MAC, largely because their run defense has been so porous opposing teams have had no need to throw. If Marshall stacks seven or eight men in the box, Gabriel and Schneider should be able to find seams in their secondary for big gains.
Edge: UCF
Marshall Rushing vs. UCF Rush Defense
With Heisman candidate Byron Leftwich at the helm of Marshall's offense, who needs to run? Marshall exploited the pass against Appalachian State, and were forced to pass exclusively last week after falling behind early. Marshall will try to run against a steadily improving defensive front, led by DE Elton Patterson, if only to take some of the pressure
off Leftwich. Don't be surprised if they abandon the run early, though.
Edge: UCF
Marshall Passing vs. UCF Pass Defense
By now, an entire nation of college football fans know about the threat posed by Marshall QB Byron Leftwich.
Blessed with a rocket arm, quick decision making, and a decent corps of wideouts, Leftwich has amassed insane numbers over the last few seasons. UCF's only hope is to force Leftwich's receivers into mistakes, and for Patterson to generate a consistent rush against Marshall's offensive line, anchored by All-American guard Steve Sciucco.
Edge: Marshall
UCF Special Teams vs. Marshall Special Teams
Neither team has shown itself to be a significant threat in either kickoff or punt returns, nor has either group made any mistakes. Gabriel has good speed for UCF, and may be the only potential game breaker on special teams in this game.
Edge: Even
Intangibles
Coach Mike Kruzcek has come under much scrutiny after opening the season at 0 - 2, mostly undeserved. UCF should be well-rested and fired up after their bye-week. Marshall, along with every other MAC team, is using Kruzcek's preseason comments that he believed UCF ought to be more concerned with non-conference foes as bulletin-board fodder. Marshall will come out looking to avenge last week's loss to Virginia Tech, with thousands of screaming fans backing them.
Edge: Marshall
Prediction: Marshall 38 UCF 26