Months in making

Hey, GameDay: We’d love to see you at UCF Preparation for Navy’s triple option began back in Knights’ preseason camp

UCF COMMENTARY:

There are few things more oldschool in football than the tripleoption offense. In a world overrun by multiple formations, spread offenses and run-pass options, the triple-option is the raisin oatmeal to your avocado toast.

This is why it can be such a challenge to face a team that runs it.

For No. 12 UCF (8-0, 5-0 AAC), replicating the speed and physicality the Knights will see Saturday when they host to Navy (2-7, 1-4 AAC) has been crucial. So much so, the team began its preparations back in preseason camp.

“It’s tough because it’s completely different than what we do offensively,” UCF coach Josh Heupel said of the challenge facing a team that runs an offense predicated on multiple options to run the ball.

But while UCF is riding the nation’s longest win streak spanning 21 games, Navy comes into Saturday’s matchup at Spectrum Stadium mired in its first losing season since 2011. The Midshipmen have suffered through a six-game losing streak that guarantees the Navy its second losing campaign since coach Ken Niumatalolo took over the program in 2008.

Navy has traditionally been one of the top rushing programs in the country, normally ranked among the top five teams in rushing offense. This year’s team ranks third, averaging more than 287 yards per game, nearly 60 yards less than the program averaged last season.

The Knights said they are ignoring records and preparing for what they believe could be one of the most physical games of the year.

“I know a couple of guys on defense look forward to this game all season,” UCF redshirt senior defensive lineman Joey Connors said. “I love the physicality that they bring. This will probably be the most physical game because they run the ball. I don’t know how many times a game — 40 or 50 — but I’m excited.”

Much of the emphasis this week has been placed on UCF’s scout team, which has been tasked