The Knights may be opening their season more than 1,000 miles away from Orlando, but many of the UCF faithful are ready for the season to begin.

"It's exciting to open up on the road," longtime UCF fan Rusty Carpenter said. "Living in Kentucky, we're always trying to track down other UCF fans. There is some good energy around the program right now and I think everyone has high expectations."

This is the first time the Knights have opened the season on the road since 2007, when UCF defeated N.C. State 25-23.

Diehard Knights' fans Lynn and Kimmy Trivett have attended every UCF game for more than five years. Thursday is no exception, as they were there to greet the team as they stepped off the bus.

"I'm excited about this year's group of kids," Lynn Trivett said. "Each position is solid and we have some good experience and have some good speed on this team. I really look for us to do great this year."