They could have a good season.
Greg McElroy Names College Football Program He's 'Bullish' About originally appeared on Athlon Sports.
Several programs this season are introducing new head coaches to lead their teams to success.
Some of the coaches are new to their respective universities, while others are returning to places where they previously found success. A notable example is Scott Frost, the head coach of the UCF Knights. He had a record of 19-7 during his two seasons at UCF, but he left after achieving an impressive 13-0 season to become the head coach at his alma mater, the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
Frost faced challenges during his time at Nebraska, finishing with a record of 16-31 before being dismissed early in his fifth season. Now, he is returning to UCF, hoping to replicate the success he experienced during his previous tenure. The Knights have struggled, suffering back-to-back losing seasons, including a disappointing 4-8 record last year.
On his podcast "Always College Football," ESPN's Greg McElroy expressed his belief that UCF will have a strong comeback season in 2025.
"I think they're heading to a bowl game this year," McElroy said. "I know this has been a major transformation. I've been bullish on UCF for a while. I still like their program's trajectory. I feel like last year was just not an indicator about where this team could go here at some point very soon."
McElroy discussed the significant roster changes this offseason, led by Frost's return. He believes that the strategy Frost implemented during his first tenure at UCF was effective, but acknowledges that the current landscape is different.
When Frost was coaching, NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) deals weren't yet in place, and the transfer portal hadn't become fully active. Additionally, the Knights were not part of a Power Four conference. This season, however, things are different at UCF, which means he will need to adapt to these changes.
McElroy believes that UCF can achieve success, but he warns that if Frost uses the same approach as he did previously, it will be more difficult. He emphasizes that a key concern for the Knights is their quarterback situation, although they should benefit from having a strong offensive line.
Indiana Hoosiers transfer Tayven Jackson is the projected starter at quarterback. He's expected to be backed up by Jacurri Brown and Cam Fancher. Jackson has thrown for 1,300 yards, six touchdowns and six interceptions in limited playing time in his career.
Brown has thrown for 809 yards, with five touchdowns and eight interceptions, despite limited playing time. Fancher has played the most games, throwing for 5,294 yards, with 27 touchdowns and 23 interceptions during his time at Marshall and Florida Atlantic.
The Frost era will resume as the Knights face Jacksonville State at 7:00 p.m. ET on Aug. 28.
Related: Paul Finebaum Says He’d Be Shocked if Major College Football Coach Fails to Revive Program
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Jul 16, 2025, where it first appeared.
Category: General Sports
