UCF Offensive Line Coach Discusses Reducing Penalties and Relocating to Orlando

AJ Blazek talks about the Knights' offensive line priorities and his move to the Central Florida program.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 8:54pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting an abstract interpretation of an offensive line formation, with sharp, overlapping shapes in navy, gold, and crimson red conveying the intensity and strategy of the unit.UCF's offensive line looks to build cohesion and reduce penalties under new position coach AJ Blazek.Today in Orlando

UCF offensive line coach AJ Blazek recently sat down to discuss the team's focus on reducing penalties and his own transition to coaching in Orlando after previously working at other programs. Blazek highlighted the competition for the starting center role and the overall development of the offensive line as key priorities heading into the 2026 season.

Why it matters

UCF's offensive line play will be crucial to the team's success in 2026 as they look to build on recent seasons. Limiting penalties and solidifying the center position are important steps for an experienced group aiming to pave the way for the Knights' offense.

The details

In the interview, Blazek emphasized the need for the offensive line to cut down on penalties, which had been an issue in previous seasons. He also discussed the competition at center, with multiple players vying for the starting role. Blazek noted that the transition to coaching at UCF has been smooth, as he looks to build on the program's recent success and help develop the offensive line.

  • Blazek joined the UCF coaching staff prior to the 2026 season.

The players

AJ Blazek

The offensive line coach for the UCF Knights football team.

Scott Frost

The former head coach of the UCF Knights, who Blazek previously worked under.

Shawn Clark

The current head coach of the UCF Knights, who Blazek now works for.

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What they’re saying

“Reducing penalties is a huge priority for us this year. That's something we've really focused on in the offseason.”

— AJ Blazek, UCF Offensive Line Coach

“The competition at center has been great to see. We've got a few guys battling it out, and that's only going to make the whole group better.”

— AJ Blazek, UCF Offensive Line Coach

What’s next

Blazek and the UCF offensive line will look to put their offseason priorities into practice during the team's spring practices and upcoming 2026 season.

The takeaway

With an experienced offensive line and a renewed focus on discipline, UCF's offense is poised to take another step forward in 2026 under the guidance of new position coach AJ Blazek.