UCF safety Phil Dunnam is set to carry the momentum from a standout performance into a challenging matchup against Texas Tech this Saturday. After making headlines with a program-best three interceptions in last week”s 30-27 loss to Houston, Dunnam is eager to replicate that success on the road.
During spring camp, Dunnam showcased his playmaking ability, consistently coming away with interceptions. His performance raised concerns for defensive coordinator Alex Grinch, who likened it to a batter hitting too many home runs in practice. Dunnam, a product of Florida Atlantic University and a Miami native, has quickly established himself as a vital member of the Knights” secondary.
According to Pro Football Focus, Dunnam is currently rated as the second-best safety in the Big 12, only behind Arizona“s Dalton Johnson. Despite not recording any interceptions in the first eight games of the season, Dunnam”s breakout performance against Houston marked a significant turning point, highlighted by a 43-yard interception return for a touchdown, marking the first such score in his career. “When I got to the end zone, I”m really just soaking it all in,” Dunnam reflected. “That”s why you saw me put my hands out, just soaking it all in. It was a great feeling. After I got my second one, I was a little surprised because that”s never happened to me, but when I got that third one, it felt great.”
Grinch noted that Dunnam”s three-interception game is not a common occurrence, recalling a similar feat by a player he coached at Wyoming in 2009. “I wish I could say it was commonplace, but a lot of times those things are tips or very unique plays,” he said. “They don”t happen very often. In Phil”s case, it was about making a play. I wouldn”t attach any luck to those things, which is really cool.”
This week brings a formidable challenge as UCF heads to face the sixth-ranked Red Raiders, who boast an impressive offensive record, averaging 42 points and 477.2 total yards per game. Dunnam remains focused on leveraging the confidence gained from his recent performance to aid his team. “After the game on Friday, I was already looking at this week,” he stated. “I”m trying to do it again. I”m trying to help this team in multiple ways as I can to get a win.”
