Rucker sees Maryland game as prime opportunity

UCF may have been down for a year, but they're on the fast track to a turnaround. That's the statement linebacker Mark Rucker hopes to make by knocking off Maryland this Saturday inside Bright House Networks Stadium.

"This is the perfect opportunity for us to show our talent," senior linebacker Mark Rucker said. "This is the perfect opportunity. They're coming to our house. I hope our fans pack the stadium. They're in the Big Ten. It's the perfect opportunity to show UCF is back. I just want the fans to know that. We're here, we're gonna compete and we're gonna try to win this game."

UCF's defense took away Michigan's running game for the most part, but some communication breakdowns led to some big passing plays. That's been a big focus this week.

"Coach Chins told us to really emphasize with hand signals so our secondary can see what we need to do," Rucker said. "What plays are being called and the checks. I feel like it's going to show up on Saturday."

Maryland has looked fairly solid in their first two games, outscoring opponents 93-27, though the competition of FCS Howard and FIU hasn't exactly been the strongest.

"They've got a couple running backs that run the ball really well," Rucker said. "(Wide receiver) D.J. Moore is a great player. I watched the FIU game. But you know what? They tie their shoes just like us. They put on their jerseys just like us. We're gonna go out and play great football. UCF defense and offense is gonna do their thing."