Kansas football posts historic rushing numbers in blowout victory over UCF

The Kansas football team completed its most dominant victory of the season in a 51-22 drubbing of the UCF Knights.

The room was bleak for Kansas Jayhawks football fans following the team’s blowout loss to No. 3 Texas a week ago. All the momentum KU had was revoked when Jalon Daniels was a last-minute scratch due to his lingering back injury. However, they were able to get things back on track this week against UCF.

Both teams started slow, but once John Rhys Plumlee was forced to leave the game after reaggravating his injury, Kansas started to pull away. A couple of long drives and a punt return touchdown later, and the Jayhawks were leading 24-0 at the half.

UCF didn’t stand a chance once the third quarter began. Devin Neal quickly opened with a 75-yard touchdown to extend the lead to 31 points. Kansas dominated the Knights in every aspect of the game, whether it be talent or physicality.

It was, by far, the most impressive performance of the year. There was never a moment where UCF threatened to get back into the game. The win takes Kansas football to 5-1, just one victory away from consecutive years with bowl eligibility.

Kansas football tailback trio runs rampant over UCF defensive line

While the defense did its job, the rushing attack led Kansas to the victory. The team totaled 399 yards and five touchdowns on 51 carries, and all three of KU’s top tailbacks contributed their fair share.

Jalon Daniels missed his second straight game, meaning Kansas had to find its offensive production from other players. Devin Neal, Daniel Hishaw Jr., and Dylan McDuffie did so in a big way.

Jason Bean’s job was essentially to hand the ball off and let the O-line and running backs go to work. It couldn’t have been executed any better. Offensive coordinator Andy Kotelnicki drew up a masterclass for Kansas, and they’ll look to carry this momentum into next week’s tilt against Oklahoma State.

Top performers:

Devin Neal: 12 rush, 154 yds, 1 TD
Daniel Hishaw Jr.: 19 rush, 134 yds, 2 TD
Austin Booker: 4 tackles, 1 sack, 2 TFL
Trevor Wilson: 82-yard punt return TD