Locked On UCF - Daily Podcast on the UCF Knights Football & Basketball

Alex Grinch’s Defense & Sincere Edwards’ Big 12 Impact + Season Predictions I UCF Podcast

Episode Summary

The 2025 UCF Knights are gearing up for a season filled with intrigue, and while the offense will grab plenty of headlines, this episode dives deep into the defensive side of the ball. With Scott Frost entering his first season back at the helm, Defensive Coordinator Alex Grinch has full control over a unit that could surprise Big 12 opponents. Known for his aggressive, effort-based schemes and ability to force turnovers, Grinch has a track record of transforming struggling defenses into formidable units. We break down how his system — with speed, nickel packages, and relentless pressure — fits the Knights’ current personnel. A key focus is defensive end Sincere Edwards, a transfer from Pitt who was one of the top-graded freshmen in the country last year. His explosive edge rush skills could be a game-changer for UCF’s pass rush alongside Nigel Lee Kelly and Malachi Lawrence. From limiting rushing yards in 2024 to bolstering third-down defense, the Knights have pieces in place to compete. James Duncan joins the conversation to share his insights, including a detailed season prediction. Will UCF go 7–5 or 6–6? Which games could be upset wins? And how will the “Space Game” tradition play out this year? We cover all that and more — from culture shifts under Frost to key schedule matchups that could define the year.