Coaching continuity
Scott Frost is back for his second stint as head coach of the UCF Knights, a program that last lifted a national championship in 2017. After a 5‑7 record in his first year back, Frost is betting on continuity, retaining much of his staff and bringing back ten starters to mount a serious push in the Big 12.
The coaching cadre remains anchored by Steve Cooper, who will continue to direct the offense, while Alex Grinch stays in charge of a defense that showed flashes of brilliance in 2025. Pete Alamar returns to oversee special teams, and the experienced McKenzie Milton rejoins the staff as quarterbacks coach, providing a familiar voice to the quarterback room.
Quarterback carousel and offensive revamp
On the field, the Knights will rely on a revamped backfield that includes transfers Duke Watson and Landen Chambers, as well as wide‑out Josh Derry and rookie Tyren Hornes. The receiving corps also welcomes Grayson Brousseau, a tight end with NFL experience, while retaining standout playmakers Duane Thomas Jr., Waden Charles and Dylan Wade.
The most anticipated addition is Alonza Barnett III, a quarterback who led James Madison to a Sun Belt playoff appearance in 2025. With 49 touchdowns and 13 interceptions last season, Barnett brings a dual‑threat skill set that the coaching staff hopes will restore the offensive firepower that once placed UCF second in the Big 12 in total yards.
Defensive adjustments and turnover focus
Defensively, the unit must replace some of its turnover‑generating talent but returns four starters in the secondary, including corners Jayden Bellamy and Antione Jackson. New additions such as Bruno Dall and Ken Talley bolster the defensive line, while linebacker Tackett Curtis and safety Braeden Marshall aim to tighten the unit’s consistency.
Special teams reshuffle
Special teams will see a change at kicker and punter, with Will Stone and Atticus Bertrams stepping in for departed Noe Ruelas and Anthony Venneri. The team’s field‑goal accuracy was the best in the conference last year, and the new legwork could keep that edge intact.
The schedule presents a tough road through the Big 12, but the Knights hope to replicate the five games they held opponents under 15 points in 2025. A strong start could set the tone for a season that many expect to be a turning point for a program still chasing its first conference championship since joining the league.