Alonza Barnett III, the Sun Belt Player of the Year, takes over at QB after UCF's 2025 offense averaged only 24.3 points per game. His dual-threat ability (2,806 passing yards, 589 rushing, 38 total TDs at JMU) should immediately elevate the unit, especially against an FCS opponent.

Louisville transfer Duke Watson (8.9 ypc in 2024) and FCS All-American Landen Chambers (1,273 yards) join Taevion Swint to form a deep backfield. Expect heavy rotation to establish the run and protect Barnett in his debut.

UCF returns nearly its entire secondary, including CB Jayden Bellamy (8 PBUs), S Braeden Marshall (2 INTs), and S Demari Henderson (61 tackles). Bethune-Cookman's passing attack should be neutralized, allowing the defense to focus on stopping the run.

UCF lost its top two sack producers (Nyjalik Kelly, Malachi Lawrence) and must rely on Isaiah Nixon, Sincere Edwards, and Akron transfer Bruno Dall. Against an FCS offensive line, this group should still generate pressure and build confidence.

Kicker Will Stone (no college FGs) and punter Atticus Bertrams are new. In a game where UCF should score often, field goals may be rare, but any early-season miscue could be magnified in a closer contest later.

Kansas enters the season with a battle between Cole Ballard and Isaiah Marshall to replace Jalon Daniels. The coaching staff has not named a starter, and the opener against LIU may be used to evaluate both. Ballard has more experience as a backup, while Marshall offers a dual-threat element. The decision will shape the offensive identity and play-calling.

The transfer running back, a Kansas native, joins his third program and is expected to be a focal point of the offense. His versatility as a runner and receiver gives Andy Kotelnicki creative options. With depth at RB from Yasin Willis and Jalen Dupree, Kansas can keep Edwards fresh and use him in space.

Kansas struggled against the run and lacked turnovers in 2025. The addition of transfers like David Santiago (EDGE), Bam Crouch (LB), and Jibreel Al-Amin (LB) bolsters the front seven. The secondary also adds multiple transfers, including Corey Gordon and Jaden Harris, to increase depth and playmaking. This unit will be tested early against LIU's offense.

Kansas plays at home with a venue HFA of 2.8, a significant edge. The forecast calls for patchy rain and 26 mph wind, which could affect passing and kicking. Kansas's run-heavy approach with Edwards and a deep RB room may be well-suited to these conditions, while LIU may struggle with the elements.

Long Island University is an FCS program with no prior record or power rating. Kansas is heavily favored, but the team must execute cleanly to build momentum for a challenging upcoming schedule (Missouri, Arizona State). The opener is a chance to establish rhythm, especially for the new QB and offensive line.