Friday Night Football on ESPN: UCF vs. BYU, Updates at the Half

Entering the game, I had stated that the keys to the game for UCF would be forcing turnovers, with at least average play from Jeff Godfrey and Ronnie Weaver out of the backfield.

So far, UCF has done exactly as I had expected. A costly interception by Jake Heaps—a bad break really, as it was an interception off a tipped pass—has led to the lone touchdown of the game. Cornerback Josh Robinson made an impressive play on the tipped pass to catch the interception. Additionally, he had a pretty impressive break up on an earlier play.

Godfrey looked awfully impressive for most of this half. After a 10-yard touchdown scamper, Godfrey is now tied for the most rushing touchdowns by a quarterback in the FBS. However, a near interception with 1:50 to go nearly cost the team momentum heading into the half.

Meanwhile, the story for BYU has remained much the same. The squad that came into the game ranked third-worst in rushing offense has started the game with 47 yards, highlighted by 23 from Joshua Quezada. 

UCF's punter, David Bohner, has played a huge role in helping UCF win the field position battle, booting two punts that resulted in 52 yards and another that had BYU starting at their own seven.

Heaps finished the half 11-of-21 on attempts for 99 yards and the lone pick. To his defense, BYU's receivers have looked shaky at best, dropping several certain receptions. 

Overall, the game has been pretty evenly matched thus far. BYU's defense has done a fantastic job to keep their team in the game. BYU finished with 146 yards at the half, while UCF finished with just over 150 yards. The lone Heaps mistake has proven to be the difference.

This game is far from over, but BYU's offense will have to pick up the slack in the second half. Another mistake on the part of BYU could be their death knell.