Alexander helps UCF hold off Houston, 17-12

HOUSTON -- Brandon Alexander forced a game-saving fumble with 24 seconds left, and Justin Holman threw two touchdown passes to help UCF beat Houston 17-12 on Thursday night in the American Athletic opener for both teams. Alexander hit Houston quarterback Greg Ward Jr. 's arm as he dove and stretched for the end-zone pylon at the end of a 19-yard run, jarring the ball loose for a touchback. The official's call was confirmed by video review. "The quarterback broke and I just knew his intent was not to pass, it was to run," Alexander said. "So, he just dove. When he dove, I dove. Everything happens for a reason. I just laid on the ground real quick.: Alexander also had nine tackles and an interception. Last year at home against Houston, Alexander broke up a four-down pass in the end zone to help the Knights hold off the Cougars. "Any win's a good win," UCF coach George O'Leary said.