The Miami Hurricanes look to get revenge after last season and travel to Orlando to take on the UCF Knights in a midweek matchup.
Miami Hurricanes Look to Get Revenge After Last Season’s Setback in a Midweek Matchup Against UCF
As the 2025 college football season rolls on, the Miami Hurricanes are gearing up for one of the most highly anticipated games of the year — a midweek showdown against the UCF Knights in Orlando. This matchup holds extra significance for the Hurricanes, who are looking to avenge a crushing defeat from the previous season. In what is shaping up to be a season of redemption for Miami, this game presents an opportunity to prove that they’ve learned from past mistakes and are ready to make a statement on the national stage.
The Hurricanes’ loss to the Knights last season was a bitter pill to swallow. Despite entering the game with high hopes and momentum, Miami’s offense struggled, their defense faltered, and they were thoroughly outplayed in a humbling defeat. For the Hurricanes, that game was not just a loss — it was a wake-up call that underscored the work that still needed to be done if they were to return to national relevance. Now, a year later, Miami has a chance to right the wrongs of that game and exact revenge on UCF in front of a raucous crowd at the Camping World Stadium.
This midweek game against UCF has all the makings of a thriller. The Hurricanes have made strides in their rebuild under head coach Mario Cristobal, and this season’s squad has the talent and determination to bounce back from last year’s setback. However, UCF has proven itself as a worthy adversary, and they won’t make it easy for Miami to walk away with a victory.
The Importance of Revenge: Learning from Last Year’s Defeat
Last season’s loss to UCF left a bitter taste in the mouths of Hurricanes players and fans alike. Miami entered the game with the expectation that they would come out on top, given their talent and a relatively strong start to the season. But UCF, led by their explosive offense, took control early, and Miami struggled to find any rhythm.
The 2024 matchup was a microcosm of Miami’s larger issues that season. The offense, despite having flashes of brilliance, couldn’t stay consistent for four quarters. The defense, which had been shaky at times, struggled to stop UCF’s fast-paced attack. The Knights ran up and down the field with ease, racking up points and leaving the Hurricanes in their wake.
For Miami, that loss was more than just about the final score. It was a reminder of how far they had to go before they could consider themselves true contenders. Coach Cristobal has emphasized that the program is focused on building a culture of excellence, but there is still work to be done. That work is especially evident in games like this one, where Miami needs to demonstrate that they have grown and can take down a team like UCF.
The rematch in 2025 isn’t just a chance to beat a solid opponent; it’s a statement game. For the Hurricanes, it’s an opportunity to show that they’ve learned from past mistakes, and that they are moving in the right direction. It’s a chance to prove that they are not the same team that faltered in 2024 but one that has matured and is ready to meet the challenges of top-tier college football.
The UCF Knights: A Familiar but Formidable Foe
The UCF Knights, led by head coach Gus Malzahn, have become a perennial contender in the American Athletic Conference (AAC). Known for their high-powered offense, UCF has established itself as one of the most explosive teams in the country, capable of putting up big numbers against anyone. The 2025 version of the Knights promises to be no different, with a potent offensive attack and a defense that, while not always flashy, plays with discipline and toughness.
UCF enters the game as a dangerous opponent, and Miami will need to be at its best to overcome the Knights. While Miami has focused on improving its defense and overall team performance this season, UCF’s offensive potency remains a significant concern. The Knights’ offense thrives on speed and tempo, running a system that often catches opposing defenses off guard. They have a dual-threat quarterback who can hurt you with both his arm and legs, as well as a stable of playmakers on the perimeter who can turn short gains into long touchdowns.
For Miami, the key to success will be to contain UCF’s explosive playmakers while being mindful of their fast-paced offensive attack. The Hurricanes’ defensive line will need to apply pressure to UCF’s quarterback, forcing him to make quick decisions and limiting his ability to extend plays with his legs. The secondary, which has been bolstered this season, will need to step up and prevent big plays down the field. If the Hurricanes can execute their defensive game plan, they will have a chance to slow UCF’s offense and give their own offense a chance to find rhythm.
On the other side of the ball, Miami’s offense will have to capitalize on every opportunity. While UCF’s defense is fundamentally sound, it can be vulnerable if exposed. Miami has a talented quarterback, skilled running backs, and dynamic receivers — all of whom will be critical in making sure that the Hurricanes’ offense can match the Knights’ high tempo.
Miami’s Key Players in the 2025 Rematch
To get revenge on UCF, Miami will need key players to step up and perform at an elite level. There are several individuals whose performances will be pivotal to the outcome of the game.
- Tyler Van Dyke (QB) – The Quarterback in the Spotlight
Tyler Van Dyke, Miami’s star quarterback, enters this season with a chip on his shoulder after an up-and-down campaign in 2024. Van Dyke has the talent to put the Hurricanes’ offense on his back and lead them to victory, but he will need to shake off any inconsistencies from the past and deliver a flawless performance against UCF. His ability to read defenses, make quick decisions, and connect with his playmakers will be crucial in this high-stakes rematch. Van Dyke must also protect the ball and avoid costly turnovers, which were a problem for Miami in their loss to UCF last season.
- Don Chaney Jr. (RB) – Establishing the Run Game
Miami’s running back room is loaded with talent, and Don Chaney Jr. will be a key player in establishing a balanced offensive attack. The Hurricanes need to be able to run the ball effectively to keep UCF’s defense on its heels. If Miami can establish the run game early, it will open up play-action opportunities and give Van Dyke more time to find his receivers down the field. Chaney’s ability to break tackles and gain tough yards will be crucial in setting the tone for Miami’s offense.
- Jaleel Skinner (TE) – A Threat in the Passing Game
Tight end Jaleel Skinner has the ability to create mismatches in the passing game, especially against UCF’s defense. Skinner is a big-bodied, athletic target who can stretch the field and make plays in the red zone. With UCF focused on Miami’s wide receivers, Skinner could be the X-factor in this game, providing Van Dyke with a reliable target in critical situations. If Skinner can exploit the middle of the field and create mismatches, Miami’s offense will be significantly more dynamic.
- Leonard Taylor (DT) – Disrupting the UCF Offense
On the defensive side of the ball, Leonard Taylor is one of Miami’s most important players. As a dominant force on the interior defensive line, Taylor has the ability to wreak havoc in the backfield and disrupt UCF’s quarterback. By applying pressure up the middle, Taylor can force quick throws and create opportunities for Miami’s linebackers and secondary to make plays. His ability to clog running lanes will also help slow down UCF’s ground attack.
- Kamren Kinchens (S) – Anchoring the Secondary
Kamren Kinchens is a dynamic safety who plays with great instincts and ball skills. His ability to read the quarterback and make plays in the secondary will be vital against UCF’s high-tempo offense. If Kinchens can get his hands on the ball and force turnovers, it could swing the momentum in Miami’s favor. He’ll be tasked with covering UCF’s fast wide receivers and preventing big plays, making him one of the most crucial players in the secondary.
