Diego Pavia just sued, and won a case that eliminated JUCO years counting towards his eligibility. He argued that at the JUCO level he was not able to benefit off his NIL.

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I think this is a little ridiculous!

Mostly similar to 2024 edition, saw this on espn regarding the NFL is adding a game show and a punting contest to its 2025 Pro Bowl skills competitions in February and are happening at UCF (Central Florida):

"The games will take place at Central Florida and finish with a seven-on-seven flag football game between the AFC and NFC on Feb. 2".


Similar press release on NFL.com stating these other events and I don't believe anything at UCF is open to the public unfortunately:

So ... for 4 years I've held this back, and really never brought it up. But now that Frost literally stated it, 'Discipline and Accountability,' I'm going to bring it up.


Recruits Loved Gus: His Biggest Liability

You've probably heard me say, Gus is very much loved by Recruits and their Parents, and he's going to do what they want for their careers, hoping they remember that. It's worked out well at times, like with JRP. But it also has reared its ugly head. I felt it was slipping with Heupel, especially after the incident with a female officer and defensive players. But I feared it happened under Gus too. because ...

The #2 knock on Gus, after his play calling, I got from Auburn fans up here in central and northern Alabama back in 2020-2021 ... was the lack of discipline at Auburn. Stars got away with things. Everyone liked Gus, but almost too much like that 'high school football coach' that doesn't exactly 'recruit kids' (yeah, I know, kids/families move, but ... college is everyone, not just a few). Gus wasn't the best man for college, 'preparing kids for their lives,' whether as a college graduate, or potential NFL talnet.

"Really nice guy, great family man, loved by his kids, but ... beyond playcalling being suspect, he's not a disciplinarian." I think it's great that Gus is going back to being an OC. And I think he might be like Coach K when he gets older, back to high school. Not because Gus 'couldn't hack it' in college, but because of what he loves and prefers to do. The Malzahns are really nice folk, probably too nice. Gus reminds me a lot of Coach K, and I love both for that reason. But ...

That really reared its ugly head this year among a few others. Maybe not JRP and some others, but ... enough. I'm sure Brandon and some others can attest more, and I really hate to be negative on players, but ... when superstars get away with things, and the heart of the team, the ones at practice and doing their jobs, even if not starters, get tired of it ...


The Right Culture: We've Lost It

Well, it's a cultural problem. And some players who have been associated with Gus are a cultural problem for college football in general, and definitely programs. That first game this year ... ugh, it bothered me. I thought back to GOL, and remembered him benching Kevin Smith for violation of team rules, even against the Cows. But I gave Gus the benefit of the doubt.

No, Gus was wrong, and I realized that by Florida, but had a hint during TCU. I think Brandon said it best about the TCU comeback being the best/worst thing when it came to Gus and our QB situation. But since then, I always said it was on him. The one thing I'll give Gus credit for is that he didn't 'out' the player and all his issues, and that's why I love him, just like Coach K. But people around the program knew it. And in this day'n age with money, oh yeah ... it's going to be a cultural problem.

I'm not saying we should get back to a GOL-type program. But I do think Frost was one of the best coaches when it came to culture that we've had. He put the names back on the uniforms, but he also kept everyone hungry, fighting. And he's clearly sick of transfers too, and wants to build up and develop the team with recruits that are local and more longer term.

It might be a tough thing to do in the age of NIL and the new $20M+ direct program funding, but if there is a man that I think that can do it the best for us, it's Frost. It's not going to be retty. In fact, I'm thinking Frost might kick some kids off-the-team, much like GOL did, and even Charlie Strong did at the Cows late in 2018 (too little, too late to do so ... he did the same at Texas).

I honestly think Frost is NOT going to hit the portal 'just to get guys.' I think he'd rather grab some 2-stars as walk-ons or get some transfers in early 2025 instead of just going for big stars with big money. Which brings me to my final point.


The Right Way: It's Frost's Program

One thing that impressed me about Frost is how he made that point over and over, and as you could see people asking questions more and more into the press conference, he got 'more specific' without too many details. But one thing I picked up on is the thing Frost said about 'Band Back Together.' If I could 'read between the lines,' I think Frost regretted taking everyone to Nebraska out of 'loyalty.'

I think Frost also has issues with some of the people he's worked with, and ... they're not coming back with him. I don't know who all they are. But we're going to find out. Maybe I'm 'reading too much,' but that's how I 'heard' it, especially after Biachi's comment-question. I think Frost has grown, more tremendously, in ways I didn't realize before. It's probably also good he had 'exposure' to the NFL, and the Rams organization, even if briefly. In fact ...

I'm now thinking if Frost eventually 'doesn't feel it' here at UCF, he'll leave like Gus did ... only he'll go to the NFL. It really sounds like Frost has that attitude of 'UCF or [College] Bust.' In 2015, I wanted Frost from Oregon because I wanted an innovative offense, if we were going to go fast-tempo. But after 2017, and definitely the debacles of Heupel in 2020 and Gus' QB 'practice issues' and 'simplyfing the offense' in 2024, I think we're gonna get Frost, the leader, the player-coach, but -- when required -- the first-person disciplinarian.

"I've played the game, and I've coached the game at both highs and lows ... and if you aren't going to play for how we feel you fit, you should consider elsewhere."

Frost is almost like Coach K as a player, including being a QB at both college and professional levels, but more like GOL in pushing for discipline and accounatability, while GOL spent only 2 years on the practice squad at Rhode Island (never lettered). Gus ... was a different type of player (WR), more like Deion, but never got close to Pro (I won't go any farther there). He's like the best of each of them.


TL;DR Version

I didn't use 'Spoilers' here, because I think it's important to take all that in. But, here's the TL;DR version ...

I'm extremely impressed with Frost, more so than I was before the press conference. I just hope everyone is going to not care about the record in 2025 and 2026, and will only focus on the results by 2027 of how Frost is going to build the program. Because if Frost starts letting kids go, and doesn't go for seemingly 'great transfers,' it's because he knows what he's doing. Even if it might be painful until 2027 or so.

Same with his staff, when people disagree why he didn't bring someone back, or went for an assistant people didn't like. I was mixed on Gus, but thought he might retire from us and might be our new GOL. I was wrong. Frost is our new GOL. And if he fails, he's not staying with college. UCF is college football to him. Orlando is his college town now.

I hope we get to build him a statue. And if not, I wish him success if he does eventually leave us for the NFL, because he feels the current college environment is untennable for him as a coach.

Hey folks,
Based on some discussions here, I know a few people are fans of Rhoback's clothing line. While their college gear looks sharp, unfortunately, they don't currently offer UCF apparel. If you're interested in seeing UCF gear in their future collections, you can suggest it on their suggestion form here under "Want to see Your School?" Hopefully we can garner enough interest for them to puruse a license with UCF.

It's science!

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Big 12 men's basketball power rankings: Javon Small, West Virginia remain biggest surprise​

Jacob Unruh
The Oklahoman

Discuss!

Who gets to lead the Knights under the direction of Frost and Milton?

Is it a guy on the roster or in the portal?

Enjoy.

Information they collect.

H. Audio, electronic, visual, thermal, olfactory, or similar information

J. Professional or Employment Information

L. Personal Information that reveals racial or ethnic origin, religious or philosophical beliefs, union membership, health, and wellness information

M. Personal Information that reveals (a) account log-in, financial account, debit card, or credit card number in combination with any required security or access code, password, or credentials allowing access to an account, (b) social security, driver’s license, state identification card, or passport number, and (c) content of consumer emails, texts and messages where we are not the intended recipient

Was at Duffy’s at Waterford Lakes last month and heard they were closing. The rumor was a Portillio’s taking that location. Any truth to this?

Ok…, I know none of you give a crap, but it’s still college football.

The no OC or coach UNLV Rebels (with Dan Mullen watching) vs the missing their starting QB because of the transfer portal Cal Bears

A BRAND NEW episode of the Sons of UCF Podcast with Adam and @UCFMike1 is now available.

We dissect week 1 of the Scott Frost 2.0 era, which saw a lot of people leaving this place.

When should we start getting concerned?

Click here for more.

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A BRAND NEW episode of the Sons of UCF Podcast with Adam and @UCFMike1 is now available.

We dissect week 1 of the Scott Frost 2.0 era, which saw a lot of people leaving this place.

When should we start getting concerned?

Click here for more.

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The estimates to fix their damage roof and other damage to the facility due to the storm keep rising...and since the Stadium won't be ready this year...would the Rays spend $60 Million or $80 Million or $100 Million to fix it and just play 2 more seasons there? (No guarantee ir will be ready in April 2025 too).

Where do you think the Rays will play? (Not that you want for selfish reasons)

The Cure Bowl gave us two tickets to the game Friday that we can give away. It's a sneaky good game that represents an even better cause. Let me know if anybody is interested, seats are in Section 107, Row P.

For the fam either July 3-7th or mid Aug, on Norwegian Sun, 4 night Bahamas & Key West. We would fly in from Co and spend 2 nights at the Hilton Daytona then hit the cruise. It has been almost 2 decades since I've been on one and this would be our first cruise together as a family. I know lots of you have experience cruising, so thought I'd reach out for some feedback. It's about $2k for the fam (cruise) but includes "everything FREE at sea", so specialty dining, open bar, internet, and $50 towards any excursion.

Please don't make this political, I feel comfortable booking for my family and I as we are both in the healthcare/medical space.

Welcome to The Knighted One’s Podcast, Episode number 68!! We are the ONLY podcast that features a former UCF National Champion, a former UCF radio host, an ESPN Analyst and Hoops Player, a INfamous rapper, Our Resident Influencer, and an IG star, shooting the breeze, talking UCF Sports. Remember to like and follow us Youtube, IG, and check out the 70+ teams and conferences on the College Huddle.

This week we went live to hang with you guys and discuss some new hires to Coach Frost's coaching staff, who else we want, and which coaches we want to keep. We also discuss NIL, RJ Harvey's spot in the AP All-American, and a lil hoops all while answering questions from our awesome live viewers! Thank you to everyone who showed up!!

Please comment for subjects that we should cover in our Intern Re-Education segment!

Go Knights! and Charge On!


Introductions
Coach Frost Calls In The Cavalry! - 00:04:02
- The Staffing Situation
- KZ Returns as QB Coach!
- Coaching is Getting Younger
- Hinshaw Tells It Like It Is
- The OC Who's Not Really The OC
- Frost Wants Trust Around Him
- Coach Beck's Resume Speaks Volumes
- The Feeling So Far
Who Takes DC? - 00:53:54
- Taking It On The Chins
- Frost Is In a Unique Position
- Frost Runs
- Rather Take A Shot On Someone New
- Coaches Gone Elsewhere
- Kam Martin Leaves Us
- Possible Picks
- Developing is Key
- Josh Gives His Fact Early
Player Updates - 01:37:37
- 2 New Transfers!
- No Word On Walker
- Another DC Theory
- Some Losses Into The Portal
- Twitter Beefs & Unknown Ceilings
- Lee Hunter Deserves The Bag
- NIL is Killing The College Game
- Power Needs To Swing Back To The Universities
- Some Returns From The Portal!
- RJ Harvey News
Hoopin' N' Hollerin' - 02:20:29
- We Beat Tulsa at Something!
- Strats & Stats
- Rainbow Shots
- Fixing The Slow Starts
- More To Come
A Quick Update On Other UCF Sports - 02:30:04
- Women's Basketball is Looking Good
- Softball Stadium News
Final Thoughts - 02:34:01

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Welcome to The Knighted One’s Podcast, Episode number 68!! We are the ONLY podcast that features a former UCF National Champion, a former UCF radio host, an ESPN Analyst and Hoops Player, a INfamous rapper, Our Resident Influencer, and an IG star, shooting the breeze, talking UCF Sports. Remember to like and follow us Youtube, IG, and check out the 70+ teams and conferences on the College Huddle.

This week we went live to hang with you guys and discuss some new hires to Coach Frost's coaching staff, who else we want, and which coaches we want to keep. We also discuss NIL, RJ Harvey's spot in the AP All-American, and a lil hoops all while answering questions from our awesome live viewers! Thank you to everyone who showed up!!

Please comment for subjects that we should cover in our Intern Re-Education segment!

Go Knights! and Charge On!


Introductions
Coach Frost Calls In The Cavalry! - 00:04:02
- The Staffing Situation
- KZ Returns as QB Coach!
- Coaching is Getting Younger
- Hinshaw Tells It Like It Is
- The OC Who's Not Really The OC
- Frost Wants Trust Around Him
- Coach Beck's Resume Speaks Volumes
- The Feeling So Far
Who Takes DC? - 00:53:54
- Taking It On The Chins
- Frost Is In a Unique Position
- Frost Runs
- Rather Take A Shot On Someone New
- Coaches Gone Elsewhere
- Kam Martin Leaves Us
- Possible Picks
- Developing is Key
- Josh Gives His Fact Early
Player Updates - 01:37:37
- 2 New Transfers!
- No Word On Walker
- Another DC Theory
- Some Losses Into The Portal
- Twitter Beefs & Unknown Ceilings
- Lee Hunter Deserves The Bag
- NIL is Killing The College Game
- Power Needs To Swing Back To The Universities
- Some Returns From The Portal!
- RJ Harvey News
Hoopin' N' Hollerin' - 02:20:29
- We Beat Tulsa at Something!
- Strats & Stats
- Rainbow Shots
- Fixing The Slow Starts
- More To Come
A Quick Update On Other UCF Sports - 02:30:04
- Women's Basketball is Looking Good
- Softball Stadium News
Final Thoughts - 02:34:01




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Hey, so what’s the deal with the Kingdom/NIL? Is UCF Taking it over? Do we donate directly to UCF now? Or do we even contribute to NIL now, if UCF is paying the players directly which I think is the new direction? I’m out of the loop here.

I’ve been a monthly donor to the Kingdom… but I’m trying to figure out what the plan is there. Saw this and it reminded me. Thanks in advance!

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Did anyone listen to the bridge the other day? Marc was pitching a 16 team playoff where the BIG get five teams, the SEC gets five teams, the ACC gets two teams, the XII gets two teams and then there is a spot for the G5 and Notre Dame.

RJ Jackson Jr. is excited for his future with UCF and working with position coach Kenny Martin.

The former Tulsa defensive tackle became the Knights' first transfer portal commitment over the weekend. Then on Wednesday, following the announcement Martin would be retained on Scott Frost's new staff, Jackson officially signed.

"Coach Martin was a big reason why I committed and signed," Jackson said. "He hopped on me pretty early. As soon I hit the portal, I think he hit me up the next day. I really felt the love early. He has a plan for me and my development and I trust him in that. Everything sounded good. It just felt right."

An Oklahoma native, Jackson played at Choctaw High School just outside Oklahoma City. He initially thought his future would be on offense.

"I played tight end from my freshman to my junior year," Jackson said. "I had a few offers at tight end. You know how recruiting goes, I took too long to commit and they weren't there anymore. So I switched to defensive end my senior year. I was recruited to Tulsa to play defensive end, then I made the transition to defensive tackle my freshman year.

"We already had two great defensive ends, Owen Ostroski and Vontroy Malone, cats like that, and I wanted to get on the field and contribute any way I can. I had the frame to move inside and put on weight, so Ron Burton, my position coach at Tulsa, we decided it was best to put on 30-40 pounds and play three-technique."

In a span of a couple years, the 6-foot-3 Jackson went from 240 to 280 pounds, which was his playing weight this past season.

"The weight came on pretty natural," he said. "Like I said, I had the frame for it. I just picked up the fork and kept eating."

After seeing immediate action as a true freshman in 2023, Jackson saw his breakthrough in 2024. Earning a starting position, he finished with 35 total tackles, four tackles for loss and three sacks. He earned a season PFF grade of 68.1.

"I took it game by game," Jackson said. "Every game I tried to do the best I could and make small improvements."

In the portal, Jackson got a lot of positive feedback from coaches.

"I move well for my size," he said. "I can move pretty well laterally whether it's stunts in the run or pass. My power at the point of attack is pretty good. I have the ability to pass rush from anywhere on the line, five (technique), three or head-up nose. My reads as far as reading guard pulls is pretty good."

Jackson spent last weekend at UCF, committing prior to his departure on Saturday.

"The visit was great," Jackson said. "I got a chance to talk to Coach Frost, Coach Martin and the rest of the guys on staff. It was great vibes. Everybody was just excited to be there and excited to get to work.

"It was great meeting with Frost. He has a history of winning. I know everybody is excited that he's back and he's going to put us in position to win a lot of ballgames here. I'm excited for it."

The visit came prior to the announcement Alex Grinch would serve as defensive coordinator, but Jackson says he's already quite familiar with him.

"I'm from Oklahoma, so I know he's a good coach and has been at a lot of big-time places," Jackson said.

Jackson said he wasn't sure about UCF's defensive plans. He thought it would be a 4-2-5 with four down linemen, but he also knows Grinch has experience running a 3-4. Regardless, he feels he can be a fit and he's excited to start working with Martin when he arrives to Orlando in January.

"He's a great person and a great coach," Jackson said of Martin. "We've continued to talk. His plan is for me to continue to get better. Everybody has weaknesses, whether it's pad level or being a better pass rusher, or better hand placement and getting off blocks. Coach Martin really goes into great detail about how he can elevate my game and take me to the next level."

Jackson was also scheduled to visit Oklahoma, but canceled after he committed to UCF.

"I'm looking forward to going in and competing," Jackson said. "I want to help the team win a lot of ballgames."

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Fascinating.

We all know the Athletic Department Administration reads this board. And we have been griping about things for a while, some have been addressed, some have not. I thought it might be an interesting off season task to list what your top things to fix in the bounce would be if you were the AD and you had unlimited resources.

Number 1 for me - upstairs cabana bar area needs more TVs, more fans/misters, maybe some seating, and please bring back 4-Rivers.

Number 2 and probably impossible make it so we can walk around the entire stadium.

UCF has landed its first transfer portal commitment of the new Scott Frost era.

RJ Jackson Jr., a defensive tackle from Tulsa, committed Saturday while on his official visit. He was recruited by defensive tackles coach Kenny Martin.

A native of Norman, Oklahoma, Jackson was a key cog in the Golden Hurricane defensive front. After seeing immediate action as a true freshman in 2023, Jackson earned a starting position in 2024 and finished with 35 total tackles, four tackles for loss and three sacks. He earned a season PFF grade of 68.1 with his best performance coming late in the year at South Florida, a game in which he pressured the quarterback five times.

In the portal, Jackson gathered offers from Oklahoma, Colorado State, Washington State and Boise State, among others. He visited OU and CSU prior to his Orlando trip.

Jackson has two years of eligibility remaining.

Defensive tackle is a major need with the graduation of Ricky Barber, plus Lee Hunter and Matthew Alexander in the transfer portal. The only remaining DT with playing experience is John Walker, though he sat out 2024 recovering from injury.

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