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2h ago

UCF Routs North Carolina 34-9 Behind Jackson, Opportunistic Defense

Lopez's right-leg injury leaves UNC's QB plan in doubt heading into a bye before Clemson.

UCF Knights quarterback Tayven Jackson (2) makes an adjustment to the play at the line of scrimmage during the second half of the football game against Jacksonville State at Acrisure Bounce House Stadium in Orlando, Fla., Thursday, Aug. 28, 2025. (Willie J. Allen Jr./Orlando Sentinel)
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Overview

  • Tayven Jackson threw for 223 yards with both a passing and a rushing touchdown to pace the Knights.
  • UCF's defense set the tone with two first‑half interceptions on deflected passes, finished by Nyjalik Kelly and Braeden Marshall after tips from Horace Lockett and Jayden Bellamy.
  • A 64‑second, six‑play, 83‑yard march capped by Jackson’s 18‑yard strike to Kylan Fox closed the first half and widened the gap.
  • UNC starter Gio Lopez left in the third quarter with an apparent right‑leg injury and was carted off, and Max Johnson relieved with a touchdown pass to Nathan Leacock.
  • UCF travels to Kansas to open Big 12 play next week, UNC is off before hosting Clemson on Oct. 4, and AP’s analysis notes Jackson is firmly UCF’s QB while UNC may need to turn to Johnson.