UConn’s offense averaged 415.3 yards per game in 2017, the Huskies’ best offensive showing since the 2003 season (477.5 ypg). The Huskies return four starters on the offensive line, and center Ryan Crozier returns to the lineup after missing the final nine games last year with a knee injury. Quarterback David Pindell started the season-opener and the final three games of the 2017 season, with a career-high 273 passing yards in the season finale against Cincinnati. Wide receiver Hergy Mayala led UConn in receptions (43), receiving yards (615) and touchdown receptions (seven) in 2017. The Huskies return their top four wide receivers from last year.

UConn will feature a relatively inexperienced defensive unit in 2018 as only two starters return. Safety Tyler Coyle finished third on the team in tackles as a freshman last season (67) and led the squad with two interceptions. Defensive back Marche Terry saw 11 starts as the Huskies went with a 3-3-5 base defense last year. Terry registered 60 tackles with an interception.

UConn opens the season with a Thursday-night matchup against UCF, which will bring a 13-game winning streak into the contest. The Huskies ended Houston’s 11-game winning streak during the 2015 season. UConn last played in a bowl game in 2015 as the Huskies look to end a two-year absence from postseason play.