ORLANDO, Fla. – UCF quarterback John Rhys Plumlee will miss “a few weeks” after suffering a leg injury against Boise State, according to head coach Gus Malzahn.
Malzahn announced that former Seminole High School quarterback Timmy McClain will get the start this week against Villanova. Saturday’s game is scheduled to kickoff at 6:30 p.m. in Orlando.
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“Timmy’s a guy that we think very highly of. He’s had a really good fall camp. In practice on Tuesday and Wednesdays, he’s got really equal reps almost to John Rhys,” Malzahn said. “So, he’s ready to go.”
BREAKING🚨: #UCF head coach Gus Malzahn says John Rhys Plumlee will be OUT against Villanova on Saturday. He says #JRP will be out for a few weeks. Timmy McClain gets the start pic.twitter.com/73ExgX4ILW
— Nathaniel Rivas (@NathanielNews6) September 11, 2023
Plumlee was injured late in the Knights’ win against Boise State after sliding while trying to get UCF into field goal range.
UCF kicker Colton Boomer went on to hit the game-winning 40-yard field goal on the final play to lift the Knights 18-16.
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Malzahn said he is “confident he will return,” referring to Plumlee, saying no surgery is needed at this time.
On Monday, Plumlee posted on social media saying in part, “I will be back!! I am blessed!”
God has a plan! My God is a healer! I will be back!! I am blessed! #G10rytoGod
— John Rhys Plumlee (@JohnRhysPlumlee) September 11, 2023
Malzahn declined to get into the specifics of the injury, but confirmed it was a leg injury.
After Saturday’s Villanova game, UCF will face Kansas State on Sept. 23 and Baylor on Sept. 30.
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