UCF QB Barnett Delivers Final Message Ahead of Season Opener UCF’s 2026-2027 football season kicks off with a matchup against Bethune-Cookman on Thursday night, set for 7:00 p.m. The Knights aim to start the campaign on a strong note despite potential weather challenges. Central to the team’s preparation is Alonza Barnett III, UCF’s starting quarterback, who has delivered a final message to the fanbase ahead of the season opener. Barnett emphasized the team’s resilience and the importance of collective belief, stating, “I want the nation to know that we’re a tough team. Not only that, but I think the power of believing in yourself, the power of believing in each other is bigger than anything that anybody could say.” This “Why not us” mindset has permeated the program, with players across all position groups setting ambitious individual and team goals. The focus remains squarely on securing a Big 12 Championship, a target that Barnett has championed as part of his vision for the season. The quarterback’s leadership has been pivotal in shaping this collective ambition, as he aims to replicate the success he achieved with James Madison during his previous collegiate tenure. Barnett expressed his excitement for the final season of his college career, stating, “Fans can expect a great brand of football, some fireworks here and there and some really consistent play.” Consistency at the quarterback position has been a challenge for UCF in recent years, with multiple players stepping in to fill the role. Head coach Scott Frost acknowledged the difficulty of managing multiple evenly-evaluated quarterbacks, a situation that has created both opportunities and challenges for the coaching staff. However, Frost highlighted that this year’s dynamic has been distinct, with Barnett emerging as the clear leader.#ucf #alonza_barnett_iii #bethunecookman #scott_frost #duane_thomas_jr
