In a dramatic Big 12 showdown at Amon G. Carter Stadium, the UCF Knights pulled off a thrilling 35-34 victory over the TCU Horned Frogs, overcoming three blocked kicks and a three-touchdown deficit. KJ Jefferson, the Arkansas transfer quarterback, led UCF with a heroic performance, throwing a game-winning 20-yard touchdown to Kobe Hudson with just 36 seconds left on the clock. The win marked UCF’s first-ever victory in Big 12 play and kept their perfect season alive at 3-0.
The game appeared to be well in hand for TCU, who blocked three UCF kicks and jumped out to a commanding three-touchdown lead in the second half. The Horned Frogs’ special teams unit made their presence felt early, creating immense pressure on UCF’s kicking game. But despite the adversity, Jefferson and the Knights mounted an unforgettable comeback.
Jefferson, who finished 13-of-22 for 230 yards and three touchdowns, played with poise and precision. His clutch 20-yard touchdown pass to Hudson capped an incredible second half for UCF, in which they scored touchdowns on four of their five possessions. The winning drive came just moments after a booth review overturned what initially appeared to be a costly fumble by receiver Randy Pittman Jr. With 1:16 left, the officials ruled Pittman was down before losing control of the ball, giving UCF new life.
RJ Harvey, UCF’s star running back, continued his dominant season with a monster performance, rushing for 180 yards on 29 carries. Harvey scored two rushing touchdowns and added a 2-point conversion, helping to power the Knights’ comeback. He also recorded his second career receiving touchdown on a 29-yard pass from Jefferson in the first half. Harvey’s fifth straight 100-yard rushing game solidified him as a key playmaker for the Knights, while his eight touchdowns on the ground this season have been instrumental in their success.
The second half was a tale of two teams. After TCU jumped out to a 27-6 lead, UCF responded by storming back with touchdowns on three consecutive possessions. Harvey’s two rushing scores and a 27-yard touchdown reception by Hudson swung momentum firmly in the Knights’ favor.
Despite the special teams struggles and early deficit, UCF’s defense stepped up in the closing stages, holding TCU scoreless in the final quarter. The Horned Frogs, who were riding high after their fast start, could not put the game away.
TCU’s three blocked kicks and early lead appeared to be enough to secure the win, but the relentless Knights had other plans. In their first-ever Big 12 game, UCF showed resilience and grit, marking a memorable debut in the conference.
For the Horned Frogs, it was a bitter defeat, as they failed to close out what looked like a sure win. TCU, now 2-1, will have to regroup after the disappointing loss, while UCF (3-0, 1-0 Big 12) will look to build on this remarkable comeback victory.
This game will be remembered for KJ Jefferson’s poise under pressure, RJ Harvey’s dominance, and UCF’s refusal to quit, even when everything seemed to be going against them. For TCU, the game will be a lesson in finishing strong and avoiding costly mistakes.
