Kansas rallies to beat UCF 27-20 in Orlando

Kansas rallied from a 14 point first quarter deficit to beat UCF 27-20 Saturday night at Acrisure Bounce House Stadium in Orlando, snapping the Knights' early lead and handing UCF its second straight loss. The Jayhawks took control in the second half, producing a goalline defensive stand in the closing minutes that preserved the victory.

UCF jumped out to a 14-0 lead on the strength of running back Myles Montgomery, who had a 29 yard touchdown on the opening drive and finished with 110 yards on 22 carries and two touchdowns. Kansas answered before halftime and then dominated the second half, outscoring UCF 13-0 after the break. A fumble by UCF late in the third quarter set up Kansas's go ahead score and the Jayhawks' defense held on with three consecutive stops at the goal line in the final minute and a half.

Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels led the comeback with efficient passing and steady leadership. Daniels finished 18 of 26 for 235 yards and contributed on the ground as well. Running back Leshon Williams provided a crucial boost in the red zone, scoring three rushing touchdowns despite a modest total of carries. Kansas' late defensive adjustments forced UCF to abandon a...