UCF Wins Gasparilla Bowl Over Florida 29-17: Reaction, Analysis, 5 Thoughts

5 Thoughts and Instant Reaction to UCF’s Gasparilla Bowl win over Florida.

3. Isaiah Bowser made the difference

Ryan O’Keefe wasn’t bad, either.

Isaiah Bowser announced his arrival at UCF with a bang after transferring in from Northwestern, running for 172 yards and a score in a win over Boise State. He followed it up with four touchdowns against Bethune-Cookman, and then he got hurt.

He still managed 111 yards in the win over Memphis and 88 more against Temple, but he missed all or parts of six games.

The time off did the 225-pounder some good.

The UCF offensive line was great, but Bowser rose up with 115 yards and two touchdowns on a tough 35 carries. Throw in 110 yards from do-it-all WR Ryan O’Keefe – he also caught seven passes or 85 yards and a score – and UCF rolled over the team that was supposed to dominate on the ground with 288 yards.

NEXT: Florida needs a fresh start