Just In: Gus Malzahn’s Bold Take: Unbelievable Praise for UCF’s Elite Marksman

Trailing 28-7 early in the third quarter typically doesn’t present a promising scenario for a running game. However, for UCF’s star running back RJ Harvey, it was just another opportunity to shine. In a dramatic comeback against TCU, Harvey played a pivotal role, finishing the game with an impressive 180 rushing yards and two touchdowns on a career-high 29 carries, alongside a 29-yard receiving touchdown. The Knights orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, overcoming a 21-point deficit to secure a thrilling 35-34 victory, marking a strong start to their Big 12 campaign with a 3-0 record.

UCF head coach Gus Malzahn was quick to praise his running back’s performance. “He ran with a mission with the game on the line,” Malzahn noted, emphasizing that Harvey is among the elite players in the country. The fifth-year senior demonstrated not only skill but also a determination that sparked the Knights’ second-half resurgence. After a solid first half with 66 yards on the ground, he exploded after the break, averaging 6.3 yards per carry, fundamentally shifting the game’s momentum.

“I knew I had to step up and have a big game,” Harvey reflected after the match. “Honestly, I feel like nobody can stop me.” His confidence is well-founded; he finished sixth in FBS last season with 1,416 rushing yards and is currently averaging an impressive 149.3 yards per game in 2024, ranking fourth in the nation. The strength of UCF’s rushing attack lies not just in Harvey’s prowess but also in a deep backfield featuring Toledo transfer Peny Boone, Cincinnati transfer Myles Montgomery, and the speedy senior Johnny Richardson. All four running backs average over six yards per carry, making UCF’s rushing game formidable.

The Knights’ ground game is bolstered by dual-threat quarterback KJ Jefferson, who adds a dynamic layer to the offense. Together, they form the most potent rushing attack in FBS, averaging 375.7 yards per game. While some of this production stemmed from blowout victories against New Hampshire and Sam Houston State, the resilience displayed against TCU marks a significant turning point. Last season, UCF struggled to compete at the Power 4 level, particularly in late-game situations, highlighted by a string of disappointing performances that included blown leads against teams like Kansas State and Baylor.

Malzahn recognized the challenges of transitioning from the Group of 5 and the American Athletic Conference to the more competitive Big 12. “It was a lack of overall depth,” he said, attributing last year’s struggles to injuries and the inability to maintain performance under pressure. This season, Malzahn sought to address that issue through a massive infusion of talent from the transfer portal, bringing in 24 new players, seven of whom started against TCU. This overhaul included several seasoned veterans, with many being fifth- or sixth-year seniors, bringing invaluable experience to the roster.

“Nothing compares to experience in college football,” Malzahn emphasized. The presence of seasoned players has proven crucial, particularly during the challenging matchups the Knights have faced. Against TCU, despite a rocky start where quarterback Josh Hoover torched UCF’s defense for 402 passing yards and four touchdowns, the Knights managed to adjust. After conceding a touchdown on the opening drive of the second half, the defense stiffened, forcing critical punts and field goals. Their ability to withstand pressure in the second half was a stark contrast to the team’s past performances.

The newfound confidence and performance in the second half were not solely due to Harvey’s exceptional running but also to Jefferson’s capability as a quarterback. Transferring from Arkansas, Jefferson brought a wealth of experience and versatility that Malzahn has effectively utilized in his offensive scheme. As defenses focus on stopping the run, Jefferson’s dual-threat ability keeps them honest, opening opportunities for both him and Harvey.

Malzahn has drawn comparisons between Jefferson and Cam Newton, whom he coached during his successful stint at Auburn. Although Jefferson is still finding his stride with UCF, his contributions against TCU were significant, including two critical touchdown passes to senior wideout Kobe Hudson in the second half. “If you can run the football, it opens up other things,” Malzahn explained, highlighting the interconnected nature of their offensive strategy.

While the offense has shown marked improvement, the defensive side of the ball remains a critical focus for UCF. Last season, the Knights struggled significantly against Big 12 offenses, particularly on the ground, allowing an alarming 4.9 yards per carry. This season, they’ve shown promise, limiting opponents to a commendable 2.5 yards per carry so far. Although it’s early in the season and more evidence is needed to declare a definitive turnaround, the additions of players like linebacker Deshawn Pace and defensive linemen Nyjalik Kelly and Daylan Dotson have strengthened UCF’s defense.

As the Knights prepare to face Colorado—fresh off a dramatic overtime victory against Baylor—the stakes are high. This matchup is poised to be a significant test of UCF’s capabilities in the crowded Big 12 landscape. Colorado’s roster includes standout talents such as Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter, and with the “Coach Prime” effect drawing national attention, the game presents a unique opportunity for UCF to showcase their growth and talent on a national stage.

Harvey, who was a local high school standout, recognizes the importance of the upcoming game. “It’s a great opportunity for UCF to have the light on us,” he remarked. This spotlight could serve as a catalyst for the Knights to elevate their program and reinforce their status as serious contenders in the Big 12.

As the schedule progresses, UCF will face increasingly challenging opponents, including Iowa State, BYU, Arizona, and Utah. Each of these contests will test their mettle and further assess whether they can maintain their success and compete for a Big 12 title. Particularly notable is the nonconference matchup against Florida, which could have broader implications for both programs and possibly influence the future of Gators coach Billy Napier.

Malzahn remains optimistic about the trajectory of UCF’s program. “We’re a young Power 4 team that is still growing,” he said, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities to prove themselves. The matchup against Colorado, featuring the national spotlight of Fox’s “Big Noon Kickoff,” represents a critical moment for UCF—a chance to solidify their identity and showcase their capabilities.

As the Knights continue their campaign, the resilience demonstrated in the comeback against TCU will serve as a foundation for future challenges. The combination of experienced leadership, a dynamic offensive scheme, and a strengthened defense presents a promising outlook. If UCF can harness their strengths and build on their recent successes, they have the potential to become a formidable presence in the Big 12 and beyond.

However, Gus Malzahn’s praise for RJ Harvey reflects a broader belief in the Knights’ potential to excel at the highest levels of college football. The team’s ability to mount comebacks, the depth of talent in their running back room, and the leadership of experienced players create a promising environment for growth and success. As UCF heads into a crucial stretch of the season, their performance against Colorado will not only be a measure of their current capabilities but also a significant step in establishing themselves as a competitive force in the Big 12. The time is ripe for UCF to seize the moment and demonstrate that they are ready to contend for championships in their new conference home.