UCF vs. Kansas football preview: 3 things to know about each team

Sep 16, 2023; Orlando, Florida, USA; UCF Knights head coach Gus Malzahn looks on during the first quarter against the Villanova Wildcats at FBC Mortgage Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 16, 2023; Orlando, Florida, USA; UCF Knights head coach Gus Malzahn looks on during the first quarter against the Villanova Wildcats at FBC Mortgage Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Watters-USA TODAY Sports
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Kansas coach Lance Leipold surveys his players during Saturday’s public practice at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium
Kansas coach Lance Leipold surveys his players during Saturday’s public practice at David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium

The Jayhawks will look to improve to 5-1 this Saturday. This is everything you need to know about the UCF vs. Kansas football matchup.

The Kansas Jayhawks (4-1, 1-1 Big 12) are set to face off against the UCF Knights (3-2, 0-2 Big 12) for the first time in each program’s history. Considering there will be a lot of unfamiliarity heading into this content, we broke down a list of three things that members of each fanbase must know about their opponent this week.

1. The Jayhawks have one of the best rushing attacks in the FBS

Kansas currently ranks 24th in the nation in rushing offense (199 yards per game). Andy Kotelnicki’s rushing attack has been led by Devin Neal and Daniel Hishaw Jr., KU’s dangerous one-two punch in the backfield.

Neal currently ranks fifth in the conference in rushing yards (439) and third among all qualifying rushers in yards per carry (6.8). Hishaw is not far behind him, as he is tied for third place with Neal.

While the Kansas native Neal provides the Jayhawks with a more elusive running style, Hishaw is a power back who can slip tackles with ease. They complement each other’s game perfectly.

Designed quarterback runs are also a major factor in KU’s offense. No matter who lines up under center for Kansas football this week will make a difference in the running game. Jason Bean, KU’s likely starting quarterback, is one of the fastest players on the team.