Knights’ reserves get key experience

A major benefit of No. 23 UCF’s 62-17 win over UConn last week was providing backups with valuable game experience.

In a season that has, of late, been defined by tough opponents and close results, there have been limited opportunities for some younger players to see the field. Many had not played since the opening two weeks of the season.

After allowing the starters one second-half series against UConn, Knights coach GeorgeO’Learyrotated in the second- and third-string players. While the most visible beneficiary was back-up QB Justin Holman, one important area for coaches to watch was the offensive line

UCF will lose three starters — Justin and Jordan McCray and Chris Martin — at the end of this season.

“… The [reserve] players got between 31 and 34 reps in the second half, which I think is great for them,” O’Leary said. “[You can] look at game speed and see how they compete and get them on film so we have something to look at in the offseason. I think it worked out well as far as those guys having an opportunity.

“As I told them, they’re getting an opportunity, but they need to go out andbe productive. That’s whatit’s all about. I thought they competed, I thought there was good effort, technique was not always where it needed to be, but I thought they gave great effort and they finished, which is what I was looking for.”

Next game: vs. Houston, Nov. 9 at 7 p.m., ESPN2