A new wave of Malzahn-era recruits ignited the Knights' dominant Big 12 victory, proving the former coach left the cupboard full.

With four days to go until the 2026 UCF football season kicks off, learn more about the players wearing the Knights' No. 4 jerseys: defensive back Braeden Marshall and running back Taevion Swint.

Spurning the transfer portal to honor his hometown roots, the veteran cornerback returns for a final season to anchor the Knights' defense and cement his local greatness.

Defying the transfer portal trend, local star Braeden Marshall embraces his senior season at home, anchoring a veteran secondary poised to dominate the Big 12's defensive landscape.