3-star EDGE Troy Ford commits to UCF

Savannah (Ga.) Calvary Day School EDGE Troy Ford had a long list of offers, but after visiting UCF three times, he found his next home in Orlando. Gus Malzahn and the Knights beat out programs such as Auburn, Missouri, Notre Dame and South Carolina for Ford.

The 6-foot-2, 227-pound junior is a versatile defender. He is ranked the No. 50 EDGE in the On3 Consensus, but expects to line up at linebacker in Travis Williams’ defense.

He first visited UCF for the Tulane game during the season before returning in January. After visiting last week, Ford knew he found his school.

“Before I visited UCF the first time, I was probably leaning towards South Carolina, things changed,” Ford told On3. “I loved the campus, I got close with the coaches and I felt most wanted by them.

“When I was there last week, I knew it. I was fishing with coach T-Will and it felt like home. I was feeling like part of the UCF family.”

Ford told the coaching staff of his decision the next day. Malzahn, Williams, William Lee and numerous UCF coaches played a role in Ford’s decision. As soon as the news hit, the entire staff was excited and congratulated Ford on his decision.

“The whole culture there is like family. The coaches are easy to talk with, they made me feel like I belonged and I already feel like one of the players there,” Ford said. “UCF is like home. I love the coaches, I am excited about the future there and I believe in coach Malzahn and T-Will.

“I know the program is going in the right direction and the staff can get me personally where I need to be as a player.”