UCF's Defense Graded Among Nation's Best Through Week 2
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Through two games, UCF has surrendered just 18 total points to opposing offenses, holding both Bethune-Cookman and Pittsburgh to just one touchdown each.
Of course, the latter did not result in a victory, with UCF falling 12-7 on Saturday, but defensive coordinator Alex Grinch has to feel confident in what his unit has accomplished thus far.
On Monday, Pro Football Network's Cam Mellor released their highest-graded FBS defenses through the first two weeks, with UCF coming in at No. 14 on the list (84.9).
The run defense has been stellar, with the Knights surrendering just 2.55 yards per carry through the first two games.
Bethune-Cookman carried the ball 40 times for just 107 yard (2.7 yards per carry) in Week 1, with Knights defenders combining for nine tackles for loss.
Junior EDGE Sincere Edwards was one of the best players on the field for UCF, recording six QB pressures and five total tackles.
His six pressures were tied for the third-most among FBS edge rushers.
Senior linebacker Tackett Curtis, who was listed as a co-starter in UCF's linebacking room, was frequently in the Wildcats' backfield, recording a sack, an additional tackle for loss, and three solo tackles.
Curtis spent time with Grinch in his freshman season at USC, and has carried over his success to UCF.
The collegiate journeyman continued to fly around the field in Week 2, recording nine tackles against Pittsburgh.
Lewis Carter, who is Curtis' linebacking partner in the middle, led all players with ten tackles, and continues to serve as the Knights' defensive leader.
Head coach Scott Frost applauded Carter throughout the offseason, while backing up his claim that he will be one of the "most productive" players in the Big 12 "and beyond" following the Knights' Week 1 victory.
With the continued uncertainty surrounding Cole Kozlowski and his pending eligibility battle, having the combination of Curtis and Carter playing at this level is extremely promising.
If Kozlowski can come back, the linebacking corps will grow even stronger and give Grinch another high-level tackler to utilize in the middle.
UCF's passing defense was also very strong against Pittsburgh, keeping sophomore quarterback Mason Heintschel in check.
In Week 1, Heintschel lit up Miami (OH) for 450 passing yards and seven touchdowns, but the Knights kept him scoreless.
Senior defensive back Antione Jackson continues to look like a difference maker on the outside, recording his second-straight game with a pass defensed.
Senior defensive back Demari Henderson was also dynamic, bringing down six Panthers and forcing a tackle for loss.
Heading into Week 3 against Georgia State, the defense's level of play has been extremely encouraging.
If the offense can get going and provide Grinch's unit with some points, the Knights could grow into a real threat within the Big 12.
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