The UCF Knights (9-4; 6-2 C-USA) lost to the Tulsa Golden Hurricane (10-3; 7-1 C-USA) 33-27 Saturday in the Conference USA Championship Game broadcasted nationally on ESPN2. The Knights’ loss came after a very controversial third quarter punt return that was marked as dead by game officials; review of the film of the game showed that the field referee called the play dead, waved his hands to signify that, and then a player from Tulsa came off of the sideline and blocked a defender, setting up the touchdown. While the score probably gave Tulsa the win, there was struggling by UCF both offensively and defensively throughout the game. And penalties were costly for the Knights. The loss cost the Knights a berth in the Liberty Bowl, where Tulsa will now go on to face Iowa State. UCF instead will play the Ball State Cardinals (9-3; 6-2 Mid American Conference) in the St. Pete Bowl (sponsored by Beef O’Brady’s) on Friday December 21st. Kickoff is set for 7:30pm and the game will be nationally broadcast in the primetime spot on ESPN. Below, take a look at the highlights of UCF’s loss in the Championship Game to Tulsa from Conference USA’s Point After:
Photo Courtesy Orlando Sentinel.