Yes, they did get worse every year under Heupel. From 12-1 his first season in 2018 to 6-4 his final season in the shortened 2020 Covid season. Heupel’s second season in 2019, they finished 10-3. Still had a winning record every season and bowl appearance. Two seasons with 10+ wins.They got worse every year under Heupel too.
Malzhan was 9-4 his first season at UCF in 2021 and 4-8 his final season, 2024. His 2nd season was about like his first with an additional loss.
His 3rd season, 2023, UCF went 6-6 in the regular season and lost the bowl game, ending them at 6-7 for the year. Two losing seasons out of 4. Never reached 10 wins.
Not trying to crown Heupel, just don’t think his regression at UCF was as bad as Malzhan’s.