News Summary
The University of Central Florida Knights are set to kick off their football season with a home game against the Jacksonville State Gamecocks. Under new head coach Scott Frost, the Knights aspire to improve from previous seasons and achieve bowl eligibility. With a revamped roster and notable changes in the coaching staff, the team aims to make a strong start while maintaining their impressive record in season openers. Fans can catch the game on ESPN+ and enjoy various radio coverage options. Tickets are currently available through UCF Athletics.
Orlando, FL – The UCF Knights will kick off their 2025 football season on Thursday, August 28, facing the Jacksonville State Gamecocks at 7 p.m. ET. The matchup will be held at the Bounce House in Orlando and will be broadcast live on ESPN+ with announcers AJ Ricketts and Rene Ingoglia. A radio broadcast will also be available on FM 96.9/AM 740 The Game, featuring play-by-play commentator Marc Daniels and analyst Gary Parris, along with sideline reporter Scott Adams. Fans can access Spanish radio coverage through UCFKnights.com and the UCF Knights YouTube channel.
As the Knights enter this new season, they are beginning a fresh chapter under head coach Scott Frost, who returned to UCF after previously leading the team to an undefeated season in 2017. Frost was hired in December 2024 on a five-year contract, and he is charged with rebuilding a team that has struggled in recent seasons. UCF aims to achieve bowl eligibility and a winning record in 2025 after being projected by ESPN to win only 3 to 4 games. However, the fanbase remains optimistic, with expectations for at least 6 victories.
The Knights come into this game with a 0-0 record, as does Jacksonville State, both teams anticipating a strong start to the season. UCF boasts an impressive track record in season openers, having won 10 consecutive season-opening games and holding the nation’s longest active streak of Thursday-night opener wins. The game against Jacksonville State will be a crucial step in Frost’s plans for the team’s future.
UCF has a notably revamped roster this season, featuring 63 newcomers, including many transfer players. At the helm of the offense, Cam Fancher has been named the starting quarterback, which will allow him to showcase his skills in the new system. Myles Montgomery will lead the rushing attack, supported by fellow running back Jaden Nixon, who is already on multiple award watchlists.
The offensive line will experience significant changes, working under new coach Shawn Clark. Adjusting to the new lineup will be essential for the Knights to build a solid foundation moving forward. Defensive coordinator Alex Grinch will also be focusing on improving red-zone defense, a notable weakness from the previous season, to enhance the team’s overall performance.
UCF’s complete schedule for the 2025 season includes several notable home games against Kansas, Oklahoma State, and Houston, which are expected to draw significant interest from fans and contribute to the team’s momentum as they aim for success this season.
Tickets for the matchup against Jacksonville State are currently available through UCF Athletics and its authorized ticketing partners. This season opener marks an important milestone in Scott Frost’s rebuilding efforts at UCF, promising an exciting atmosphere for both teams as they step onto the field aiming to set the tone for the 2025 campaign.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
University of Central Florida Knights Prepare for New Season
Orlando High School Sports Roundup: Football and Cross Country Highlights
UCF University Announces Induction of Six Alumni into Hall of Fame
UCF University Announces Hall of Fame Class
UCF Knights Football Team Focuses on Defense Ahead of Season
UCF Knights Prepare for Season Opener Against Jacksonville State
UCF Welcomes New Football Talent Sincere Edwards
University of Central Florida Begins Roth Tower Expansion
Central Florida High School Football Teams Prepare for Season
Former UCF Coach Joins Florida State University as Offensive Coordinator
Additional Resources
- Jagran Josh: UCF Knights Football 2025 Schedule
- Wreck Em Red: Watch Jacksonville State vs UCF
- KSL Sports: Big 12 Football Week One 2025
- UCF Knights: Best Performances Deserve an Encore
- USA Today: Big 12 Football Expert Picks Week 1
- Wikipedia: University of Central Florida
- Google Search: UCF Knights Football
- Google Scholar: UCF Knights Football 2025
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football
- Google News: UCF Knights

Author: STAFF HERE ORLANDO WRITER
ORLANDO STAFF WRITER The ORLANDO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREOrlando.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Orlando, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Orlando International Fringe Theatre Festival, Megacon Orlando, and Central Florida Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Orlando Economic Partnership and Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro Orlando, plus leading businesses in leisure and hospitality that power the local economy such as Walt Disney World Resort, AdventHealth, and Universal Orlando. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.