UCF Knights Rally From 21-Point Deficit to Beat Boise State 36-31 in Season Opener

By  //  September 3, 2021

21-point comeback ties for UCF's largest comeback in school history

ABOVE VIDEO: UCF tied their largest comeback in school history when they erased a 17 point deficit to defeat Boise State 36-31 in their season opener.

ORLANDO, FLORIDA (UCF Knights) – The UCF football team opened the Gus Malzahn era with a 36-31 defeat of visiting Boise State Thursday night in a delayed start at the Bounce House.

Junior quarterback Dillon Gabriel threw for 318 yards and four touchdowns, as the Knights won their season opener for the sixth straight season.

The Knights (1-0) overcame a 21-0 first-half deficit – matching a program record – and scored 23 consecutive points to earn the victory.

The UCF defense held the Broncos (0-1) offense to no points and negative seven yards of total offense in the third quarter to take control of the game.

The Knights (1-0) overcame a 21-0 first-half deficit – matching a program record – and scored 23 consecutive points to earn the victory. (UCF Knights Image)

Newcomer Isaiah Bowser led the rushing attack with 33 carries for 172 yards and a score on the ground, while four different Knights scored through the air; Jaylon Robinson (6 for 140), Brandon Johnson (5 for 47), Titus Mokiao-Atimalala (3 for 19) and Alec Holler (2 for 29).

Originally scheduled for a 7:05 p.m. kickoff, the game ultimately started at 9:45 p.m. due to lightning in the area.

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