Cedric Thompson has been a contributor since his first season the field in 2012, first as a backup running back and as of last season, an H-Back. His role looks to increase for his senior year.
UCF hasn't traditionally utilized H-Backs or tight ends as receivers like some teams do, but with new personnel in the receiving corps, Thompson provides another option that could help in the passing game.
"I'm extremely excited for my opportunity coming up," Thompson said following a recent practice. "It takes a lot of hard work to learn different positions at once. Learn some different nuances of the offense. But I'm definitely excited for the opportunity and I'm going to make the most of it."
The significance of being a senior is not lost on Thompson either.
"At the conclusion of camp, I had some time to myself to sit down and think about it," he said. "Wow, this is my last year. When you're a freshman, you think you have four years and plenty of time. Time has really flown by. I definitely had some time to sit and reflect about that. I want to go out with a bang. I've seen a lot of things since I've been here. A lot of different experiences and stuff like that. I definitely want to go out on top like some seniors in the past have before."
The journey begins Thursday when FIU visits Bright House Networks Stadium for a 6 p.m. kickoff on CBS Sports Network. What stands out about the Panthers?
"We noticed they have a lot of athletes," Thompson said. "They have good players on defense and they do have a lot of returning starters. That's why we've been so focused on our game plan, practicing hard, making sure we're doing the right things in practice so we can have a successful game against them."
