Jalon Daniels, Kansas try to solve UCF’s pass defense
The Kansas Jayhawks visit the UCF Knights Saturday in Orlando as both teams aim to right the ship. Kansas nearly blew a late lead against Cincinnati last week, while UCF dropped its first conference game. Jayhawks QB Jalon Daniels threw for 445 yards and four touchdowns in the loss, while UCF enters boasting the nation’s best pass defense (129.8 yards allowed). You can compare how this one stacks up in the college football week 6 odds and predictions.
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Line Movement and Odds
Kansas opened near –3.5 to –4 territory and is now listed at –4.5, with the Jayhawks on the moneyline at –201. UCF is +167 at home. The total is 55.0, with early action favoring the Over as bettors anticipate a shootout given Kansas’s pass-heavy attack and UCF’s vulnerabilities in other phases.
Matchup Breakdown
Kansas Jayhawks Outlook
Daniels is explosive, and multiple receivers (five with at least 10 catches) give him safety valves. The Jayhawks also have a dual-threat rushing dimension with Leshon Williams and Daniel Hishaw Jr. contributing. If Kansas avoids late-game breakdowns and keeps UCF off balance, they have momentum and firepower on their side.
UCF Knights Outlook
UCF’s defense lives off its elite pass defense, but its run defense is less tested. Offensively, they need to be balanced — lean too heavily on the pass and Kansas may exploit the edges. Coach Scott Frost must scheme effectively to take advantage of Kansas’s occasional misalignments and force Daniels into tight windows.
Key Battle
Kansas’s passing volume vs UCF’s secondary. If Kansas can win in the short and intermediate game, UCF’s defense may bend too much.
Injuries and Conditions
- Kansas: No new major injuries reported
- UCF: No major injuries reported
Weather: Warm, humid Orlando evening. Dry conditions expected.




Best Bets and Prediction
Kansas is favored for a reason — big plays and high passing volume give them matchup leverage. The model projects a 31–24 Kansas win, signaling value in KU –4.5 and leaning Over 55.0. For more angles, check out the full NCAAF previews this week.
Pick: Kansas –4.5
Projected Score: Kansas 31, UCF 24
Lean: Over 55.0
Don’t Miss Your Edge
Big 12 matchups like this often hide mismatches and value. Explore expert betting angles →
Category | Detail |
---|---|
Best Bet | Kansas –4.5 |
Confidence | ★★★☆☆ |
Projected Score | Kansas 31, UCF 24 |
Total Lean | Over 55.0 |
Market Split | ~62% bets Kansas, Over has early support |
Handicappers and Picks
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