UCF vs. Arkansas State prediction and game preview. Projecting who wins the Cure Bowl matchup between the Knights and Red Wolves.
UCF vs. Arkansas State Game Preview
When: Saturday, December 17 – 5:30 p.m. ET
Where: Camping World Stadium, Orlando, FL
TV Broadcast: CBSSN
The Knights are back in a bowl game after a 0-12 season last year, and head coach Scott Frost’s name is being thrown around for other coaching jobs. For now, it seems that he will happily remain in Orlando and build up a program to be reckoned with.
Arkansas State enters the bowl game after overcoming an 0-4 start to run up a record of 7-5. Quarterback Justice Hansen has made the difference, throwing for 2,514 yards and 16 touchdowns.
What To Know About UCF
The Knights are inconsistent at quarterback, with McKenzie Milton throwing for just 1,808 yards and nine touchdowns with seven interceptions. The rushing attack isn’t much better, ranked No. 96 in the nation by averaging just 151.92 yards per game on the ground.
The defense has been the surprise, giving up just 24.1 points per game. Linebacker Shaquem Griffin has been a major force, recording 11 sacks and 85 total tackles on his way to becoming the AAC Defensive Player of the Year.
What to Know About Arkansas State
Quarterback Justice Hansen has been okay for the offense, throwing for 2,514 yards and 16 touchdowns. Running back Warren Ward has helped the offense move the chains and has seven touchdowns to his name. Ward could have a big day against a Knights defense that allows 181.25 yards per game.
The Red Wolves are excellent at keeping opponents off of the board, giving up just 22.2 points per game. It will give the UCF offense a fight, and likely keep the Knights from having too many scoring opportunities.
Advantages
Offense: Arkansas State. The combination of Hansen and Ward keeps the Red Wolves balanced on offense.
Defense: Arkansas State. Allows just 374.5 yards per game.
Special Teams: Tie. Both field goal kickers are inconsistent.
Coaching: UCF. Scott Frost is the hot name on the market.
Intangibles: UCF. It would be a major win for the Knights to follow an 0-12 season with a winning campaign.
Matchup To Watch
UCF offense vs. Arkansas State red zone defense
The Red Wolves can give up yards, but getting into the end zone against them is another story.
UCF vs. Arkansas State Betting Odds
Spread: Not available at time of publication.
Over/Under: Not available at time of publication.
UCF vs. Arkansas State Prediction
While neither team is excellent in any particular area, the fact that Arkansas State can limit the points that it gives up will make the difference in this one. Forget the certain home-field advantage that the Knights will have, and give a victory to the Red Wolves.
UCF vs. Arkansas State Score Prediction: Arkansas State 28, UCF 24
Campus Insiders Staff Picks
Brian Stultz: Arkansas State
Jeff Bartl: UCF
Rich Cirminiello: UCF
Robert Judin: UCF
Jordan Cornette: UCF
MORE: Final Top 25 College Football Playoff Rankings For 2016