UCF spring football: How does new QB KJ Jefferson fit in with Knights?

UCF coach Gus Malzahn made it clear that last season’s 6-7 record — its first in the Big 12 — was unacceptable.

He took decisive action in the offseason, making staff changes, reshaping the strength and conditioning program and returning to play-calling duties.

The team’s new recruits and transfers, along with the best recruiting class in school history, should provide depth, experience and athleticism. With these changes in place, the Knights believe they are poised for success in Year 2 of the Big 12.

UCF begins the process Monday with the first of 15 spring practices leading up to the April 12 spring game.

Here are a few questions facing the Knights:

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How does KJ Jefferson fit into the plan?

Malzahn wouldn’t publicly admit that quarterback was in a position of need during the December transfer window. However, with the departure of two-year starter John Rhys Plumlee, it became apparent that the Knights could benefit from another experienced one.

Enter Jefferson, whose 6-foot-3, 247-pound frame has many pro scouts comparing him to another former Malzahn quarterback: Cam Newton. The fifth-year senior excelled at Arkansas, where his size and athleticism helped him set multiple school records, including passing yards (7,911) and passing touchdowns (67).

Jefferson fits well into Malzahn’s run-heavy, spread offense that relies on the Mississippi native to utilize pre-snap motions and shifts. His size and time in the SEC should be an asset.

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What changes under new coordinators?

Much to nobody’s surprise, Malzahn resumes play-calling duties. The 58-year-old coach briefly relinquished control of UCF’s offense to offensive coordinator Darin Hinshaw, only to seize it back during a…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/ucf-spring-football-does-qb-100000062.html

Author : Orlando Sentinel

Publish date : 2024-03-11 10:00:00

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