TCU Falls Short in Orlando as UCF Knights Hold Off Horned Frogs 21-13

TCU Horned Frogs Drop Decision in Orlando

The TCU Horned Frogs found themselves on the wrong end of the scoreboard in Orlando, falling 21-13 to the host UCF Knights on Saturday. The visit to Acrisure Bounce House, which drew a crowd of 43,212, resulted in a defeat that leaves the Horned Frogs with a 2-2 record for the season.

While the visiting squad managed to keep the game within striking distance for most of the contest, the Knights' ability to score in the final period sealed the victory for the home team, who improved to 3-1.

Knights Take Early Lead, TCU Responds

The Knights struck first in the opening period, with Taevion Swint rushing 13 yards for a touchdown to give UCF a 7-0 lead. TCU answered quickly through Jeremy Payne, who carried the ball one yard for a score, tying the game at 7-7.

The momentum shifted in the second quarter when TCU kicker Nate McCashland connected on a 29-yard field goal to put the visitors ahead 10-7. However, the Knights reasserted themselves before halftime. Keyone Jenkins found Caden Piening on a 19-yard passing play for a touchdown, allowing UCF to take a 14-10 lead into the break.

The third quarter saw only one scoring drive, as McCashland added a 45-yard field goal for TCU, narrowing the deficit to 14-13.

Jenkins and Knights Close It Out

The decisive moment came in the fourth quarter when the Knights capitalized on their final offensive opportunity. Landen Chambers rushed one yard for a touchdown, giving UCF a 21-13 lead that TCU could not overcome in the remaining time. The victory was powered by a efficient performance from Knights quarterback Keyone Jenkins, who completed 19 of 20 passes for 160 yards and one touchdown.

On the ground, Duke Watson contributed 57 yards on 13 carries, while Josh Derry added 41 receiving yards on three catches.

TCU Struggles Offensively

For the Horned Frogs, the offensive effort fell short despite a high volume of attempts. TCU quarterback Jaden Craig completed 25 of 40 passes for 310 yards, though the day was marred by two interceptions. Jeremy Payne led the rushing attack with 48 yards on 15 carries, including his early touchdown.

Jordan Dwyer was the top target, catching five passes for 100 yards. Despite these individual efforts, the lack of a fourth-quarter scoring play proved fatal in the loss to the Knights.

Sources

ESPN