I haven't seen all the stats, but both quarterbacks threw for more than 200 yards and at least three touchdowns each. The defense got lit up as UCF put the AAC on notice. Combined, the quarterbacks accounted for 471 passing yards, seven scores, and just one interception. In my opinion, either quarterback is capable of winning double digit games in 2022.
However, Mikey Keene should NEVER take another snap inside an opponents' 10-yard line. Last season, Gus Malzahn replaced Keene with Joey Gatewood or Parker Navarro in these situations, and I see why now. After nearly throwing his second pick six (had he not hustled down the field to make a touchdown-saving tackle) in spring game, Keene has assured himself a spot on the bench every time UCF gets near the end zone. He is a turnover machine down there.
I thought the perimeter blocking by the receivers and tight ends were incredible and unselfish. Kenmore Gamble did a great job blocking on screens in the first half. Deonta Marks blocked well in the second half. It is worth noting Chip Lindsay called as many screens in first half on average as he did when Auburn led the nation in screen pass plays in 2017.
Run blocking by the tackles on the edge of the line of scrimmage was good as well because the running backs and wide receivers were consistently able to get outside and pick up yardage. The backs probably averaged 4-5 yards a carry as a unit. I remember one running back (Anthony Williams) getting tackled for loss.
UCF is blessed with running back and wide receiver depth.
Johnny Richardson has improved in his ability to run between the tackles. It adds a new dimension to his game. I was equally compressed with the younger brother of former Miami great Ahmmon Richards. Now healthy, Mark-Antony Richards plays like a clone of former SEC Player of the Year Kerryon Johnson in terms of his ability to run between the tackles and catch the ball as a weapon out of the backfield. MAR would start for most AAC programs based on what he did Saturday.
As far as the wide receivers go, I am not certain UCF has had as much talent at one time at this position. Kobe Hudson caught five passes for 112 yards and two scores, Jaylon Robinson had three catches for 126 yards and two scores, and Amari Johnson had four receptions for 66 yards and two touchdowns. Amari Johnson certainly earned himself some extra playing time next season. Ryan O'Keefe and Jaylon Griffin flashed at times as well. On a disappointing note, Jordan Johnson and Gatewood, still a disaster, underwhelmed. I don't remember their names called at any point during the radio broadcast.
On special teams, David Obarski will probably handle short kicks, including extra points, and Colton Boomer will handle long kicks. I am uncertain if kickoff duties have been resolved. Andrew Osteen, from my neck of the woods, remains entrenched as punter.
All and all, the display of UCF's Spring Game should send ticket sales skyrocketing. Expectations are through the roof now.
However, Mikey Keene should NEVER take another snap inside an opponents' 10-yard line. Last season, Gus Malzahn replaced Keene with Joey Gatewood or Parker Navarro in these situations, and I see why now. After nearly throwing his second pick six (had he not hustled down the field to make a touchdown-saving tackle) in spring game, Keene has assured himself a spot on the bench every time UCF gets near the end zone. He is a turnover machine down there.
I thought the perimeter blocking by the receivers and tight ends were incredible and unselfish. Kenmore Gamble did a great job blocking on screens in the first half. Deonta Marks blocked well in the second half. It is worth noting Chip Lindsay called as many screens in first half on average as he did when Auburn led the nation in screen pass plays in 2017.
Run blocking by the tackles on the edge of the line of scrimmage was good as well because the running backs and wide receivers were consistently able to get outside and pick up yardage. The backs probably averaged 4-5 yards a carry as a unit. I remember one running back (Anthony Williams) getting tackled for loss.
UCF is blessed with running back and wide receiver depth.
Johnny Richardson has improved in his ability to run between the tackles. It adds a new dimension to his game. I was equally compressed with the younger brother of former Miami great Ahmmon Richards. Now healthy, Mark-Antony Richards plays like a clone of former SEC Player of the Year Kerryon Johnson in terms of his ability to run between the tackles and catch the ball as a weapon out of the backfield. MAR would start for most AAC programs based on what he did Saturday.
As far as the wide receivers go, I am not certain UCF has had as much talent at one time at this position. Kobe Hudson caught five passes for 112 yards and two scores, Jaylon Robinson had three catches for 126 yards and two scores, and Amari Johnson had four receptions for 66 yards and two touchdowns. Amari Johnson certainly earned himself some extra playing time next season. Ryan O'Keefe and Jaylon Griffin flashed at times as well. On a disappointing note, Jordan Johnson and Gatewood, still a disaster, underwhelmed. I don't remember their names called at any point during the radio broadcast.
On special teams, David Obarski will probably handle short kicks, including extra points, and Colton Boomer will handle long kicks. I am uncertain if kickoff duties have been resolved. Andrew Osteen, from my neck of the woods, remains entrenched as punter.
All and all, the display of UCF's Spring Game should send ticket sales skyrocketing. Expectations are through the roof now.
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