Jackson’s fumble return helps Oklahoma State beat UCF

Oklahoma State defeated UCF 42-28 on Saturday, using a 28-yard fumble-return touchdown by Evan Jackson to break open a close game and extend its winning streak to four. The Cowboys improved to 4-1 overall and 2-0 in Big 12 play, while UCF fell to 3-3 and 1-2 in the conference, according to the game accounts. Quarterback Drew Mestemaker threw for 304 yards and two touchdowns and added a rushing score. He completed 19 of 28 passes without an interception, while Oklahoma State’s offense also converted his two-point run after Jackson’s touchdown into a 35-21 lead. The decisive play came early in the fourth quarter, with Oklahoma State ahead 27-21. UCF quarterback Keyone Jenkins was driving when a backward pass was knocked down by Oklahoma State defender Christian Bodnar. Jackson recovered the loose ball and returned it 28 yards for a touchdown. The play gave the Cowboys a two-score cushion, and Mestemaker ran in the conversion with 10:32 remaining, according to the game report. Oklahoma State took a 21-21 tie into halftime after Jenkins connected with Tyren Hornes on a 3-yard touchdown pass with 13 seconds left in the second quarter.