College Football14 Sept 20261 minute read

UCF Quarterback Alonza Barnett III Out Multiple Weeks

UCF starting quarterback Alonza Barnett III is out for multiple weeks with a hamstring injury, leaving senior Keyone Jenkins to lead the offense.

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Barnett Sidelined with Hamstring Injury

The UCF Knights have suffered a major blow to their offense. Starting quarterback Alonza Barnett III is expected to miss multiple weeks after injuring his hamstring. The injury happened on the final drive of the team's 12-7 loss against Pitt on Saturday. Currently, there is no clear timeline for his return.

Barnett is in his first season with UCF after transferring from James Madison. He previously led the Dukes to a Sun Belt title and a spot in the first round of the College Football Playoff in 2025. In his second start for the Knights on Saturday, he completed 20 of 31 passes for 186 yards and one touchdown against the Panthers before leaving the game.

Jenkins Steps Up to Lead Offense

With Barnett out, Keyone Jenkins is expected to take over as the starting quarterback. Jenkins replaced Barnett at the end of the Pitt game. The six foot, 200 pound senior has plenty of experience. He was a three year starter at Florida International before transferring to join the Knights.

Injuries at the quarterback position are nothing new for UCF. During the 2025 season, the Knights had to use five different passers. That was coach Scott Frost's first year back leading the program. To prepare for these situations, UCF rebuilt its quarterback room in the offseason. Along with Barnett and Jenkins, they added Boise State transfer Kaleb Annett and signed freshman Rocco Marriott, who was an SC Next 300 prospect.

What it means for the next game

The Knights currently hold a 1-1 record. They will close out their nonconference schedule against Georgia State this Saturday at 7 p.m. ET before starting Big 12 conference play at home against TCU.

Georgia State Panthers at UCF Knights (College Football, Sat, 19 Sep): UCF Knights win 90%, Georgia State Panthers win 10%; projected score UCF Knights 35, Georgia State Panthers 17. Our safest pick: Over 41.5 points.