UCF’s football team was unable to hold onto an early lead against No. 11 BYU, losing 41-21 in the final game of the 2025 regular season in Provo, Utah.
The Knights started strong, building a 14-0 advantage in the first quarter. Tayven Jackson connected with Waden Charles for a key gain and later found Dylan Wade for his fifth touchdown of the season, which set a new single-season receiving touchdowns record for a tight end at UCF. The team’s opening drive touchdown was its first since their win over West Virginia on October 18.
Defensively, UCF forced BYU into a three-and-out after Lewis Carter disrupted the Cougars’ first play with a forced fumble. The Knights capitalized on good field position and scored again as Jackson found Agyeman Addae for his first career touchdown.
BYU responded with a nine-play scoring drive. After intercepting a trick play attempt by UCF, BYU threatened to score again but missed a field goal. The Cougars tied the game at 14 before halftime and took their first lead just before the break with another field goal.
In the second half, RJ Martin scored his third rushing touchdown for BYU, extending their lead to 24-14. A punt return touchdown increased BYU’s advantage to 31-14. UCF answered with another trick play resulting in Addae’s first career passing and rushing touchdowns on the same play.
BYU sealed the game with a long fourth-down touchdown pass and added a late field goal for the final margin.
Despite this loss, UCF improved its overall record compared to last season. Wins included victories over North Carolina under Bill Belichick, North Carolina A&T, Jacksonville State, West Virginia, and Oklahoma State.
Looking ahead to next year, UCF will host five conference games and several non-conference matchups in Orlando during the 2026 season. Preparation begins soon as UCF announces its incoming freshman class during the early signing period from December 3-5.
“ABOUT UCF ATHLETICS
UCF is a proud member of the Big 12 Conference. Our mission is to positively transform the lives of our students academically, athletically, and personally through a nationally competitive intercollegiate athletics program that enhances the reputation and visibility of the University. We strive to be Florida’s preeminent athletic program representing UCF and our community with distinction on the national stage as ‘Orlando’s Hometown Team.’ To learn more about UCF and Athletics, please visit our websites at www.ucf.edu and www.ucfknights.com.”
