Top 12 takeaways from the Cincinnati Bearcats' win over UCF in Orlando

The Cincinnati Bearcats had nothing to hide from, but still had some uncertainty about whether the game would take place. The Bearcats realistically could have been up 27-3 at halftime instead of 10-3, as Sorsby threw two red zone interceptions and Nathan Hawks missed a 36-yard field goal before halftime.

The missed points hurt as UCF scored early in the third quarter to tie the game. Luckily, UC survived the Knights' football onslaught in the final seconds.

“The defense really stepped up tonight,” Sorsby said. “They played a really great game. I think we passed the ball really well. There were a few stupid throws on my part. We just have to finish drives. I have to be smarter with the ball.”

Was it the luck of the Irish?

The Bearcats wore the same jersey combination as seventh-seeded UC's win at No. 9 Notre Dame in 2021 en route to the College Football Playoff semifinals. Red helmets, white jerseys, black pants prevailed and they held UCF to 13 points, the same number of points as Notre Dame in 2021. Granted, UCF is not Notre Dame, but they started the season with 57, 45 and 35 points. In their last three games, all losses, they had scores of 21, 13 and 13.

How did the Florida Bearcats do?

Offensive starters Xzavier Henderson (Miami) and Tony Johnson (Ocala) are from Florida, as are defensive starters Jared Bartlett (Miami) and Jordan Young (Tampa). Running back Manny Covey is from Starke. Defensive back Kye Stokes reunited with his brother, UCF receiver Kason Stokes, both of Tampa.

Bartlett caused a fumble that prevented UCF's first scoring opportunity and resulted in a sack later in the first half. He tied with Antwan Peek Jr. in tackles with seven and recorded two sacks. Johnson reached tight end Joe Royer on eight balls and reached the end zone shortly after going down injured inside the 10-yard line.

“I didn’t want to let one game get me down,” Johnson said. “I have all week to recover. That’s the Bearcat mentality. I will be able to get those minutes back. I want to be out there for my team.”

Johnson came into the game with 12 receptions in the last five games. UC was missing Tyrin Smith and Aaron Turner due to injuries.

The case for (Deshawn) Pace

UC's leading tackler came to UCF via the transfer portal last year and came into the game against his old teammates, who led the Knights in tackles and with two interceptions. Pace walked across the field before the game and greeted some of his old teammates.

He finished the game with just one tackle.

Defensive back Bryon Threats also transferred to UCF, but ended his Knights career after four games and returned to the transfer portal. Running back Myles Montgomery joined Pace and Threats. Montgomery made a quick play with three runs for six yards.

Next on the Big 12 menu?

The Bearcats return home where they will host Arizona State for Homecoming on Saturday, October 19th at noon at Nippert Stadium. The annual Homecoming parade along Clifton Avenue begins at 8 a.m. The Sun Devils are coming off a 5-1 thriller on Friday night in which they beat No. 16 Utah 27-19 as Cam Skattebo ran for 158 yards and two touchdowns, including the game-winner. As per the preseason polls, Arizona State was picked to finish last by the Big 12 media.

UCF travels to No. 11 Iowa State, which played at West Virginia on Saturday night.

Scott Springer secures the Cincinnati Bearcats' 19:13 win over UCF

Scott Springer secures the Cincinnati Bearcats' 19:13 win over UCF