UCF and Baylor have no experience playing one another nor do they have much BCS bowl experience, but two surprise seasons have both teams meeting up in the Tostitos Fiesta Bowl for an AAC, Big 12 showdown. With two of the nation's top passing quarterbacks leading the offenses, this game could be a high-flying showdown.
UCF has a top passer in Blake Bortles who flew under the radar during the start of the year, but is now considered one of the best quarterbacks in the nation. The senior has the potential to be a top-10 draft pick and a win in the BCS game could help his draft stock. He finished ninth in the nation in passer efficiency after throwing for 3,280 yards and 22 touchdowns. He took home AAC Offensive Player of the Year.
Central Florida could be in trouble if they do not do a better job of protecting Bortles. The offensive line gave up seven sacks in the first seven games, but then surrendered 14 sacks in the final five games. If he can stay upright, Bortles will toss the ball to four different receivers who all totaled up at least 36 carries while Storm Johnson took care of the ground game.
Bryce Petty will lead the Bears. The junior quarterback has already announced his plans to return for his senior season after throwing 3,844 yards and 30 touchdowns. He finished the year ranked second in passing efficiency. He earned Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year leading the explosive offense.
The Bears offense seemed unstoppable. They put up 265.2 rushing yards per game behind running back Lache Seastrunk who totaled 11,060 yards and 11 touchdowns on the ground.
Baylor looked poised for the national championship through most of the season with one of the most high-powered offenses in the league. A loss to Oklahoma State derailed their championship plans, but the Bears still finished with their first 11-win season and the Big 12 championship.
On the other side, Central Florida wrapped up their Cinderella season with an American Athletic Conference title and a BCS bid when Louisville beat Cincinnati. Their 11-win season was the first since 2010 while their eight-game win streak was a school record.
Both Baylor and South florida are coming off the best seasons in school history. Each team finished with just one loss, surprising most people throughout the season. The Tostitos Fiesta Bowl will feature two of the best quarterbacks in the nation as both programs look to finish their top seasons on a high note with a BCS win.
