It was not a night to remember as Marshall fell at home to UCF Saturday evening, 54-17. The loss was Marshall's worst ever defeat at Joan C. Edwards Stadium, moving the Herd to 3-5 on the season and 2-2 in Conference USA play.
Marshall struggled in all three aspects of the game, especially special teams. UCF wide receiver Quincy McDuffie returned two kickoffs for touchdowns, a first for any C-USA player in one game.
On defense, the Thundering Herd could not control Central Florida's passing or rushing attack. Knight's quarterback Blake Bortles was efficient despite throwing two interceptions as he connected on 15 of 21 attempts for 277 yards and two touchdowns. C-USA's reigning offensive player of the week Latavious Murray gained 156 rushing yards on only 15 carries with three touchdowns.
UCF did an excellent job of keeping the home teams offense out of rhythm, shutting down Marshall's ground attack. The Knight's held MU to a season low 66 yards on 36 carries, a 1.8 yards per attempt average. Through the air, Rakeem Cato completed 35 of 62 passes for 298 yards and two touchdowns. Cato found himself under duress most of the night as he was sacked four times.
The loss represents Marshall's first three game losing streak at home since 2007. Another streak was extended as UCF now owns eight straight victories over the Thundering Herd.
For continuing coverage of UCF's 54-17 blowout win over Marshall, check back with the Marshall Thundering Blog.
Box Score
The Charleston Gazette
UCF continues its hold over Marshall
Grades for UCF game
The Charleston Daily Mail
Marshall Football: UCF dominates Herd, 54-17
Video: Doc Holliday post-game comments - UCF 54, Marshall 17
The Herald Dispatch
Marshall suffers Knight-mare
Chuck Landon: Herd never gave itself a chance to beat UCF
Grant Traylor's game balls
Chuck Landon grades the Herd
Ben Fields: Special teams like bad weather
The WV Metro News
Herd Humbled at Home 54-17
The Orlando Sentinel
UCF rolls to 54-17 win at Marshall, maintains lead in C-USA East
UCF QB Blake Bortles recovers from rough start to lead offense
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