UCF Knights Battle Back to Beat BYU Cougars in OT

Oct 9, 2014; Orlando, FL, USA; UCF Knights running back William Stanback (28) scores the game-winning touchdown as the Knights beat the Brigham Young Cougars 31-24 in overtime at Bright House Networks Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Manning-USA TODAY Sports

Justin Holman threw two touchdown passes, including the game-winner in OT, and ran for one more to lead the UCF Knights past the BYU Cougars 31-24 Thursday night.

On 3rd and goal in overtime, Holman connected with William Stanback for a 4-yard score to give UCF the lead, before the Knights’ defense sealed the win by shutting down the BYU (4-2) passing game.

UCF (3-1) had jumped to a 10-0 lead in the first quarter thanks to a 5-yard touchdown run by Holman and a Shawn Moffitt 42-yard field goal.

Trevor Sanson kicked a 32-yard field goal for the Cougars to cut the lead to 10-3 at half time.

However, BYU’s offense exploded to begin the second half as they scored three touchdowns in a 2:51 period to take a 24-10 lead.

BYU starter Christian Stewart hit Colby Pearson for a 4-yard score before the Cougars defense forced a three and out.

BYU actually then went three and out themselves but got the football back as UCF fumbled the punt return to take over at the Knights 25-yard line. After a 10-yard run by Paul Lasike, Stewart connected with Devin Mahina from 15 yards out.

On UCF’s next play from scrimmage, Holman was intercepted by Skye Povey. On the next play, Stewart tossed a 14-yard score to Mahina.

However, UCF responded on their next drive as Stanback ran in from two yards out to complete a 37-yard drive that had started in BYU territory thanks to a 57-yard Rannell Hall kick return.

The Knights tied the game at 24 when Holman hit Josh Reese for a 37-yard touchdown with 10:17 left in the fourth.

UCF had a chance to win late but Moffitt’s 50-yard field goal was blocked.

Holman threw for 326 yards and added 26 more on the ground. Stanback had 44 rushing yards while Reese had a game high 87 receiving yards.

The Knights did have four turnovers including Holman’s second interception that came in the red zone on a tipped pass in the fourth quarter.

Jacoby Glenn had UCF’s lone interception while Terrence Plummer and Thomas Niles each had a sack. Plummer had a game high 17 tackles and 4.5 tackles for loss.

UCF are in action next on Oct. 18 when they host Tulane.