Alonza Barnett III debuts for UCF in record-setting 73-6 rout over Bethune-Cookman

Orlando, Fla. (AP) — Alonza Barnett III made his debut for UCF and guided the Knights to a staggering 73-6 victory over Bethune-Cookman on Thursday night, shattering the program's record for the largest margin of triumph.

Barnett, who transferred from James Madison, completed 158 passing yards and a touchdown while adding a rushing score. He helped the Knights tally points on their opening three drives and 10 of their subsequent 12 offensive plays. Running back Duke Watson sprinted 64 yards for a touchdown on UCF’s second offensive play, giving the Knights an early 7-0 lead. Jayden Williams responded with a 47-yard interception return for a touchdown, extending the advantage to 14-0.

Just before halftime, Barnett completed a 5-yard run, putting the Knights up 21-0. The Knights' twelve touchdowns were distributed among nine different players, with Watson leading the way on the ground for 110 yards on seven carries. Landen Chambers contributed 56 yards on six carries, including a 29-yard touchdown run. UCF's third-string quarterback, Rocco Marriott, sealed a fourth-quarter drive with a goal-line score.

The victory surpassed the Knights' 64-point win over Grand Valley State in 1987, when UCF was in Division II. It also tied the program's record for points scored, set in a 2017 win over Austin Peay. Bethune-Cookman scored on the game's final play, with a 8-yard touchdown pass from Joel Morris to Kobe Stewart. UCF fielded multiple quarterbacks, switching between them throughout the contest. The Knights rested many starters after the first half.

Quarterback Rocco Marriott led the scoring drive in the fourth quarter with a touchdown at the goal line. UCF's goal for the season was to increase takeaways, and they achieved this with two interceptions returned for scores. This was the first such score for the Knights since a game against Houston on Nov. 7, 2025. The team also recovered a fumble when Aymeric Koumba strip-sacked Horace Lockett.

UCF claimed their 11th consecutive season-opening win, a record dating back to 2004. They have started 22 season openers since 2004, winning 20 of them, including 11 in a row this season. Bethune-Cookman, the Wildcats, have not defeated an FBS opponent since beating Florida International in 2014.