The highly anticipated UCF football schedule for the 2025 season is finally here, and it promises to be one of the most exciting and challenging in program history. The Knights will open the season with a home game against the Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs on August 30th, marking the first time the two teams have met since 2015. UCF will then hit the road for a tough matchup against the Pittsburgh Panthers on September 6th, their first meeting since 2013.
The Knights will return home for their third game of the season, a non-conference clash with the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats on September 13th. UCF has won the last three meetings between the two schools, and will be looking to extend that streak to four. The following week, the Knights will travel to Tampa to face the South Florida Bulls in the annual War on I-4 rivalry game. UCF has won the last two meetings in the series, and will be looking to make it three in a row.
The Knights will then open American Athletic Conference play on September 27th with a home game against the Memphis Tigers. UCF has won the last four meetings between the two teams, and will be looking to keep that streak alive. The following week, the Knights will travel to Houston to face the Houston Cougars. UCF has won the last two meetings in the series, and will be looking to make it three in a row. The Knights will then return home for a two-game homestand, starting with a game against the Navy Midshipmen on October 11th. UCF has won the last three meetings between the two teams, and will be looking to extend that streak to four. The following week, the Knights will host the Tulane Green Wave. UCF has won the last two meetings between the two teams, and will be looking to make it three in a row.
2025 UCF Football Schedule Released
Key Highlights
The University of Central Florida (UCF) football team has officially unveiled its schedule for the 2025 season, promising an exciting mix of home and away games against formidable opponents. The Knights will kick off their campaign with a highly anticipated home opener against the University of South Florida (USF) on Saturday, August 30th. This rivalry matchup is sure to generate a thrilling atmosphere at the Bounce House Stadium.
Following the season opener, UCF will embark on a demanding three-game road trip. First up is a visit to the SEC powerhouse, the University of Alabama, on Saturday, September 6th. The Knights will then travel to the ACC’s Virginia Tech Hokies on September 13th, before rounding out the road trip with a non-conference clash against the University of Wyoming Cowboys on September 20th.
Upon returning home, UCF will face a pair of non-conference opponents in consecutive weeks. The Knights will host the University of Tennessee-Martin Skyhawks on September 27th, followed by a showdown with the University of Charlotte 49ers on October 4th.
The schedule intensifies in October with a crucial road test against the University of Cincinnati Bearcats, a fellow member of the American Athletic Conference (AAC), on October 11th. The Knights will then return to the Bounce House Stadium for back-to-back home games against the East Carolina University Pirates (October 18th) and the University of Houston Cougars (October 25th).
The final stretch of the season features a pivotal two-game road trip. UCF will face the University of Memphis Tigers on November 1st, before concluding the regular season with a high-stakes matchup against the Tulane University Green Wave on November 8th.
The Knights will look to build upon their successful 2024 season, which saw them earn a berth in the Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl. With a talented roster led by experienced quarterback John Rhys Plumlee, UCF aims to make a statement in the 2025 campaign and contend for the AAC Championship.
Home Games
UCF’s 2025 home schedule features a mix of in-state and out-of-conference opponents. The Knights will open the season at home against the UAB Blazers on September 6th. They will then host the South Florida Bulls on September 13th and the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats on September 20th. UCF concludes its home non-conference slate with a matchup against the North Carolina Tar Heels on September 27th.
Key Matchups
The Knights’ 2025 schedule features several key matchups that could have a major impact on their season. Here are three games to watch:
UCF vs. North Carolina (September 27th)
The Knights will host the North Carolina Tar Heels in a non-conference matchup on September 27th. The Tar Heels are coming off a 9-4 season in 2024 and are expected to be a contender in the ACC Coastal Division. This game will be a good test for UCF’s defense, as North Carolina boasts one of the most talented offenses in the country.
UCF vs. Cincinnati (October 25th)
The Knights will travel to Cincinnati to take on the Bearcats on October 25th. The Bearcats are coming off an undefeated season in 2024 and are the defending AAC champions. This game will be a battle for supremacy in the AAC East Division.
UCF vs. South Florida (November 15th)
The Knights will host the South Florida Bulls in the annual War on I-4 rivalry game on November 15th. The Bulls are coming off a 7-6 season in 2024 and are looking to make a statement in the AAC East Division. This game will be a key matchup for both teams as they try to position themselves for a bowl game.
Away Games
The 2025 UCF Football schedule features a challenging road slate, with the Knights traveling to some of the toughest venues in the country. The season opener pits UCF against the defending national champions, Alabama, in Tuscaloosa. Other road tests include trips to rival Florida, ACC power Miami, and SEC East opponent Kentucky.
Scheduling Challenges
Non-Conference Opponents
The non-conference portion of the schedule is highlighted by the aforementioned matchup with Alabama. UCF also hosts FCS foe Bethune-Cookman and travels to in-state rival USF. These games provide opportunities for the Knights to showcase their talent and build momentum before conference play.
Conference Schedule
Within the American Athletic Conference (AAC), UCF will face a balanced mix of East and West division opponents. Notable games include a home matchup against reigning conference champions Tulane and a road trip to perennial contender Cincinnati. The Knights will also host Memphis and East Carolina, while traveling to Temple and Navy.
Strength of Schedule
The 2025 UCF Football schedule is expected to be one of the most challenging in the program’s history. The Knights’ average opponent strength of schedule is projected to be ranked among the top 25 in the country. This demanding slate will test the limits of the team and provide them with valuable experience against some of the nation’s best.
Season Outlook and Predictions
Conference Predictions
UCF is projected to finish in the top half of the conference.
The Knights are picked to finish 3rd in the AAC East Division behind Cincinnati and SMU.
National Predictions
UCF is not currently ranked in the preseason polls, but they are receiving votes.
The Knights are projected to finish in the top 25 by some national outlets.
Individual Predictions
Here are some individual predictions for UCF players in 2025:
| Player | Position | Projection |
|---|---|---|
| John Rhys Plumlee | Quarterback | 2,500+ passing yards, 1,000+ rushing yards, 30+ total touchdowns |
| RJ Harvey | Running back | 1,200+ rushing yards, 10+ touchdowns |
| Titus Mokiao-Atimalala | Wide receiver | 1,000+ receiving yards, 15 touchdowns |
| Terrence Lewis | Defensive end | 50+ tackles, 12+ sacks |
| Davonte Brown | Safety | 50+ tackles, 6+ interceptions |
Highlighting the Quarterback Battle
The Knights’ quarterback competition is expected to be one of the most intense in the country. Incumbent starter Mikey Keene will be challenged by highly-touted freshman Nick Evers. Keene has 22 career starts and has thrown for 2,754 yards with 17 touchdowns. Evers was the nation’s top-rated quarterback recruit in the class of 2023.
Other Position Battles to Watch
In addition to the quarterback battle, there are several other position battles to watch this spring. The Knights are looking to replace several key contributors on both sides of the ball, including All-American linebacker Tatum Bethune. Here are a few other position battles to keep an eye on:
- Running back: Isaiah Bowser is the leading returning rusher, but several other players are vying for playing time, including Trilion Coles, Johnny Richardson, and Mark-Antony Richards.
- Wide receiver: Jaylon Robinson is the Knights’ top returning receiver, but several other players are looking to make an impact, including sophomore Ryan O’Keefe and freshman Amari Johnson.
- Defensive line: The Knights lost several key pieces from last year’s defensive line, but they have a few talented players returning, including Davonte Brown and Walter Nolen. Several newcomers are also looking to make an impact, including freshman John Walker.
- Linebacker: Bethune was the heart and soul of the Knights’ defense last year, but they have several talented players who are looking to fill his void, including Jeremiah Jean-Baptiste and Terrance Lewis.
- Cornerback: The Knights lost their top two cornerbacks from last year, but they have several talented players who are looking to step up, including Nyamekye Foard and Jordan Oladokun.
Schedule
The Knights will open the 2025 season on September 6 at home against the Bethune-Cookman Wildcats. They will then travel to Tallahassee to face the Florida State Seminoles on September 13. The Knights will return home to face the Georgia Bulldogs on September 20. They will then travel to Chestnut Hill to face the Boston College Eagles on September 27. The Knights will open ACC play at home against the Louisville Cardinals on October 4. They will then travel to Pittsburgh to face the Pittsburgh Panthers on October 11. The Knights will return home to face the Virginia Cavaliers on October 18. They will then travel to Raleigh to face the NC State Wolfpack on October 25. The Knights will host the Clemson Tigers on November 1. They will then travel to Blacksburg to face the Virginia Tech Hokies on November 8. The Knights will close out the regular season at home against the East Carolina Pirates on November 15.
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| September 6 | Bethune-Cookman Wildcats | Orlando, FL |
| September 13 | Florida State Seminoles | Tallahassee, FL |
| September 20 | Georgia Bulldogs | Orlando, FL |
| September 27 | Boston College Eagles | Chestnut Hill, MA |
| October 4 | Louisville Cardinals | Orlando, FL |
| October 11 | Pittsburgh Panthers | Pittsburgh, PA |
| October 18 | Virginia Cavaliers | Orlando, FL |
| October 25 | NC State Wolfpack | Raleigh, NC |
| November 1 | Clemson Tigers | Orlando, FL |
| November 8 | Virginia Tech Hokies | Blacksburg, VA |
| November 15 | East Carolina Pirates | Orlando, FL |
Defense Strength
UCF’s defense has been a consistent force in recent years, ranking among the top 25 in the nation in several statistical categories. In 2024, the Knights return a wealth of experience and talent, including several key playmakers.
Potential Breakouts
Several young players are poised to make significant contributions to the UCF defense in 2025. These players have shown flashes of brilliance in limited opportunities and could emerge as stars in their sophomore or junior seasons.
Linebacker Tatum Bethune
Bethune, a true freshman in 2024, displayed exceptional instincts and athleticism in his debut season. He recorded 51 tackles, including 7.5 for loss, and 2 interceptions. With a full offseason of development and experience, Bethune could become a dominant force at the linebacker position.
Cornerback Ja’Quan McMillian
McMillian, another true freshman in 2024, showed great potential as a cover cornerback. He allowed just 2 completions on 13 targets and intercepted 1 pass. With his speed and agility, McMillian could become one of the top playmakers in the UCF secondary.
Defensive Tackle Isaiah Nixon
Nixon, a sophomore in 2024, has shown tremendous potential as an interior pass rusher. He recorded 4 sacks and 10 tackles for loss despite playing in a reserve role. Nixon’s combination of size and athleticism could make him a force to be reckoned with in 2025.
Impact of New Additions and Transfers
Transfer Additions
UCF added several key transfers for the 2025 season, including quarterback Ethan Gilbert from Alabama and running back A.J. Brown from Georgia. Gilbert brings experience and leadership to the offense, while Brown is a dynamic playmaker who can create big plays.
Freshman Additions
UCF’s 2025 freshman class includes several highly touted recruits, including linebacker Jeremiah Alexander and wide receiver De’Andre Campbell. Alexander is a top-100 prospect who could immediately contribute on defense, while Campbell is a talented pass-catcher who has the potential to become a star.
Impact of Transfers
The addition of Gilbert and Brown via transfer is expected to have a major impact on UCF’s offense. Gilbert’s presence will provide stability and experience, while Brown’s athleticism and versatility will create matchup problems for opposing defenses.
The table below summarizes the key new additions and transfers for UCF in 2025:
| Player | Position | Previous School |
|---|---|---|
| Ethan Gilbert | QB | Alabama |
| A.J. Brown | RB | Georgia |
| Jeremiah Alexander | LB | N/A |
| De’Andre Campbell | WR | N/A |
Game Day Atmosphere
UCF football games are known for their electric atmosphere, with passionate fans creating an unforgettable game day experience. The Bounce House, UCF’s home stadium, is renowned for its earsplitting crowd noise and vibrant energy.
Before each game, fans flock to campus early to participate in pre-game festivities. Tailgating is a popular way to socialize and get hyped up for the game, with food, drinks, and music flowing freely. The UCF spirit squad and cheerleaders lead the crowd in chants and cheers, setting the tone for an exciting afternoon or evening.
Tailgating
Tailgating at UCF is a vibrant tradition that begins hours before kickoff. Fans set up their grills and tents in designated areas around the stadium, creating a festive and lively atmosphere.
Tailgaters enjoy a wide range of food and beverages, from traditional barbecue to gourmet creations. Music, games, and camaraderie flow freely, as fans connect with fellow Knights and visitors from opposing teams. UCF Athletics provides food vendors and entertainment, enhancing the overall tailgating experience.
Tailgating Rules and Regulations
To ensure a safe and enjoyable tailgating experience, UCF Athletics has established the following rules and regulations:
| Rule | Details |
|---|---|
| Alcohol | Alcoholic beverages are allowed in designated areas only. |
| Grills | Grills must be charcoal or gas-powered and placed a safe distance from tents and vehicles. |
| Tents | Tents must be under 10×10 feet and cannot block access to pedestrian walkways. |
| Noise | Music and noise levels must be kept within reasonable limits. |
| Behavior | Tailgaters must maintain a respectful and sportsmanlike demeanor. |
Ticket Sales and Stadium Attendance
UCF football’s 2025 schedule is set to feature nine home games, including matchups against some of the top teams in the country. The Knights will open their season at home against Bethune-Cookman on September 6th, followed by a home game against UMass on September 13th. UCF will then hit the road for a game at Georgia Tech on September 20th before returning home to face Florida Atlantic on September 27th.
The Knights will have a bye week on October 4th before hosting Cincinnati on October 11th. UCF will then travel to South Florida on October 18th before returning home to face Houston on October 25th. The Knights will close out their regular season with home games against Memphis on November 1st and FIU on November 15th.
UCF’s 2025 schedule is one of the most challenging in recent memory. The Knights will face six teams that finished in the top 25 of the AP Poll last season, including Cincinnati, South Florida, and Houston. UCF will also face two teams that finished in the top 10 of the AP Poll last season, including Georgia Tech and Florida Atlantic.
Ticket Sales and Stadium Attendance
UCF is expecting to sell out every home game in 2025. The Knights have sold out every home game for the past two seasons, and they are expecting to continue that streak in 2025. UCF’s stadium, The Bounce House, has a capacity of 44,206, and it is one of the most electric atmospheres in college football.
| Game | Attendance |
|---|---|
| Bethune-Cookman | 44,206 |
| UMass | 44,206 |
| Florida Atlantic | 44,206 |
| Cincinnati | 44,206 |
| Houston | 44,206 |
| Memphis | 44,206 |
| FIU | 44,206 |
Coach Guz Malzahn’s Vision for the Season
Coach Guz Malzahn is entering his fourth season at the helm of the UCF Knights. He has a 22-10 record at UCF and has led the Knights to two bowl games. Malzahn is a proven winner and has a clear vision for the 2025 season.
Building on Success
Malzahn is looking to build on the success of the 2024 season, when the Knights went 9-4 and finished the season ranked No. 25 in the AP Poll. He believes that the Knights have the potential to be a top-10 team in 2025.
Offensive Philosophy
Malzahn’s offensive philosophy is based on the spread offense. He likes to use a lot of tempo and misdirection to keep defenses off balance. He also believes in establishing a strong running game to open up the passing game.
Defensive Philosophy
Malzahn’s defensive philosophy is based on a 4-2-5 scheme. He likes to use a lot of pressure to force turnovers and create havoc. He also believes in playing with great discipline and tackling well.
Special Teams
Malzahn believes that special teams can be a difference-maker in close games. He is looking for his special teams units to be consistent and reliable in 2025.
Recruiting
Malzahn is committed to recruiting the best student-athletes to UCF. He has already signed several highly-touted recruits for the 2025 class.
Schedule
The Knights have a challenging schedule in 2025. They will play nine games against Power Five opponents, including road games at Ohio State, Penn State, and Notre Dame.
Key Players
The Knights have several key players returning in 2025, including quarterback Mikey Keene and running back Isaiah Bowser. They also have a number of talented young players who are expected to make an impact.
Expectations
The expectations are high for the Knights in 2025. They are expected to compete for a berth in the College Football Playoff. Malzahn is confident that the Knights have the potential to be a special team in 2025.
Conclusion
Coach Guz Malzahn has a clear vision for the 2025 season. He believes that the Knights have the potential to be a top-10 team. He is committed to recruiting the best student-athletes, developing his players, and preparing his team to compete at the highest level.
UCF Football Schedule 2025
| Date | Opponent | Location |
|---|---|---|
| September 6 | South Carolina State | Orlando, Fla. |
| September 13 | at Louisville | Louisville, Ky. |
| September 20 | at Ohio State | Columbus, Ohio |
| September 27 | Florida A&M | Orlando, Fla. |
| October 4 | at Penn State | State College, Pa. |
| October 11 | Memphis | Orlando, Fla. |
| October 18 | Tulane | Orlando, Fla. |
| October 25 | at Cincinnati | Cincinnati, Ohio |
| November 1 | East Carolina | Orlando, Fla. |
| November 8 | at Notre Dame | South Bend, Ind. |
| November 15 | Southern Miss | Orlando, Fla. |
| November 29 | at USF | Tampa, Fla. |
The UCF Football Schedule for 2025: A Look Ahead
The University of Central Florida (UCF) football team is set to embark on an exciting and challenging schedule in 2025. With a mix of conference and non-conference matchups, the Knights will face a diverse array of opponents throughout the season. Here’s a closer look at what to expect from UCF’s 2025 football schedule:
The Knights will open their season at home against the University of South Florida (USF). This in-state rivalry game is always a hotly contested affair, and it will be a great opportunity for UCF to start the season with a strong showing. After a bye week, UCF will travel to Tallahassee to take on the Florida State Seminoles. This will be a tough test for the Knights, as Florida State is a perennial contender in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
UCF will then return home for three consecutive games, hosting the University of Louisville, the University of Memphis, and the University of Houston. These will be crucial games for the Knights, as they will be looking to establish themselves as a force in the American Athletic Conference (AAC). After a bye week, UCF will travel to Las Vegas to face the UNLV Rebels. This will be a challenging non-conference matchup, as UNLV is a rising program under head coach Marcus Arroyo.
The Knights will then close out their regular season with three home games against the East Carolina Pirates, the Tulane Green Wave, and the Cincinnati Bearcats. These games will be critical for UCF’s bowl eligibility hopes, and they will also be a great opportunity for the Knights to showcase their talent in front of their home crowd. The regular season finale against Cincinnati will be a particularly important game, as the Bearcats are a perennial contender in the AAC.
