With Keyone Jenkins battling an ankle injury, the Knights could turn back to their original starter as they look to bounce back from a difficult loss to Baylor.
ORLANDO, Fla. — Another quarterback change could be on the horizon for UCF as the Knights prepare for Saturday’s Big 12 matchup against Kansas.
UCF appears to be trending toward Alonza Barnett III returning to the starting lineup after quarterback Keyone Jenkins aggravated an ankle injury during Friday’s 41-9 loss to Baylor.
Although head coach Scott Frost has not officially named a starter, Jenkins’ uncertain availability puts Barnett in position to lead the Knights into Lawrence.
Barnett, who opened the 2026 season as UCF’s starting quarterback, missed five games after suffering a significant hamstring injury against Pittsburgh in September. His return against Baylor marked his first game action in more than a month.
The former James Madison standout completed 8 of 16 passes for 133 yards in relief of Jenkins. While Barnett provided some production through the air, UCF struggled to establish an offensive rhythm against Baylor’s aggressive defensive front.
Injuries Continue to Complicate UCF’s Quarterback Situation
Quarterback instability has become a recurring challenge for Frost and the Knights this season.
Jenkins initially stepped into the starting role following Barnett’s injury and eventually delivered one of UCF’s most memorable performances of the season, leading the Knights to a stunning 39-31 double-overtime victory over then-No. 2 BYU.
Against the Cougars, Jenkins threw for 293 yards and three touchdowns while adding another score on the ground.
However, that momentum came to an abrupt halt against Baylor.
Jenkins completed 14 of 21 passes for just 82 yards before exiting with an ankle injury that Frost indicated had been bothering him for several weeks.
Following the loss, Frost acknowledged the uncertainty surrounding his quarterbacks while expressing confidence in the team’s available options.
The bigger concern, however, extends beyond who takes the snaps.
UCF surrendered seven sacks against Baylor, and its rushing attack struggled to generate consistent production. Those issues could make life difficult for Barnett if he returns to the starting lineup.
Barnett Gets Another Opportunity
Barnett arrived at UCF with considerable expectations following an impressive career at James Madison.
During the 2025 season, he earned Sun Belt Conference Player of the Year honors after throwing for 2,806 yards and 23 touchdowns while adding 589 rushing yards and 15 scores.
He also helped lead James Madison to the College Football Playoff.
His dual-threat ability was expected to provide a major boost to Frost’s offensive system, but injuries have prevented him from establishing consistency in Orlando.
Now, Barnett could have an opportunity to reclaim his role with four regular-season games remaining.
For UCF, the timing is critical.
The Knights enter Saturday’s contest with a 4-4 record, needing two additional victories to secure bowl eligibility.
Kansas, meanwhile, sits at 3-5 overall and 1-4 in Big 12 play following a 22-16 loss to TCU.
UCF will also be looking to end a troubling road losing streak. The Knights have dropped 12 consecutive games away from home, with their last road victory coming against TCU in September 2024.
Whether Barnett ultimately gets the starting nod or Jenkins recovers in time, UCF must find a way to improve its offensive execution.
For a team still fighting to extend its season, Saturday’s trip to Kansas represents an important opportunity to regain momentum.
UCF at Kansas
- Date: Saturday, November 7, 2026
- Kickoff: 3:45 p.m. ET
- Location: David Booth Kansas Memorial Stadium, Lawrence, Kansas
- TV: ESPN2
