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UCF HC Scott Frost Predicts Big Season From LB Carter
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- UCF HC Scott Frost Predicts Big Season From LB Carter
(IMAGN IMAGES/Reuters Connect)
The 73 points on the scoreboard from UCF's dominant Week 1 victory tell a story of offensive dominance, but the defense may have been even more impressive.
The Knights gave up less than 200 total yards to Bethune-Cookman, stunting the Wildcats' ability to find an offensive rhythm.
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Senior linebacker Lewis Carter , who has been hailed the leader of UCF 's defense, had a solid showing, posting five total tackles and holding down the middle of the field.
Following the win, head coach Scott Frost talked about what he saw from Carter, saying he expects him to make a lot of "game changing" plays going forward.
After two seasons at Oklahoma , Carter made a huge impact in his first year with UCF, recording 92 total tackles, two sacks, and two forced fumbles, while serving as a vocal presence on the field.
This year, Frost believes he will be one of the "most productive" players in the Big 12 "and beyond," crediting his work in the offseason.
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"A lot of guys that have been through the ups, been through the downs, and a lot of guys that are putting in the work and ready to go," Carter said after Day 1 of fall camp .
Carter showed the ability to produce against some of the top competition in the conference last season, posting big showings towards the end of the year.
In three of the final four games of the season, Carter recorded 12 or more tackles, doing so against Texas Tech , Houston, and BYU .
Against BYU, UCF got off to a hot start, and it began to look like the Knights could upset the Cougars and potentially earn a bowl bid.
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But, the Knights' 14-0 start was quickly snuffed out, and UCF's bowling hopes were dashed.
This year, UCF has much loftier goals than simply making a bowl game, with the consistent performance from Carter being a key proponent of their success.
All-Big 12 Third Team linebacker Cole Kozlowski remains a question mark as far as returning to the program, but would form one of the best linebacking duos in the conferences if he can.
With the wild world of collegiate athletics and players seeking additional eligibility, Kozlowski has been trying to return to UCF.
Ahead of the season, Kozlowski was pictured practicing with UCF, and eventually was listed on the official roster.
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But, he did not appear in Week 1.
Nevertheless, having a defensive leader like Carter who has the full trust of his coach is crucial for the Knights' defensive success.
With UCF traveling to face Pittsburgh's potent passing attack this weekend, Carter will need to have a big day.
