Under the Friday night lights at the Alamodome in San Antonio, the USF football team (5-6; 3-4 American) faced a formidable challenge against conference-leading UTSA (8-3; 7-0 American), resulting in a 49-21 defeat. This clash not only extended UTSA’s impressive 17-game conference winning streak but also marked their 21st triumph in the last 23 home games.
Looking forward, the Bulls are now gearing up for a pivotal showdown at Raymond James Stadium next Saturday, set for a 7:30 p.m. kickoff against Charlotte on Senior Night. Beyond the intense on-field action, the evening promises to be Fan Appreciation Night, featuring numerous prizes and giveaways as a token of gratitude for the loyal Bulls fans.
The opening chapters of the game saw the Bulls seize an early advantage, leading 14-7. However, UTSA orchestrated a remarkable turnaround, orchestrating a run of 35 consecutive points that established a commanding 42-14 lead late in the third quarter, ultimately securing a decisive victory.
Fueling UTSA’s triumph was the stellar performance of seventh-year starting quarterback Frank Harris. Harris showcased his versatility by contributing 523 yards of total offense, passing for 411 yards and three touchdowns, while also adding another dimension with 112 rushing yards and three scores.
Despite the uphill battle, USF’s redshirt-freshman quarterback, Byrum Brown, exhibited resilience, contributing 287 passing yards and a touchdown through the air, along with 43 rushing yards and a score on the ground. Running back Nay’Quan Wright added 67 yards rushing and a touchdown to the Bulls’ offensive efforts.
Notably, wide receiver Sean Atkins continued to etch his name in the school’s record books. He extended his season record for receptions, securing 10 passes during the game to bring his total to an impressive 79 for the year. Additionally, Atkins surpassed the program’s season record of 879 yards, set by Marquez Valdes-Scantling, reaching a milestone of 900 receiving yards for the year.
Despite the valiant effort put forth by the Bulls, maintaining their early lead proved elusive against UTSA’s formidable offensive display. The Roadrunners capitalized on big plays, with six resulting in touchdowns, underscoring the challenge faced by the Bulls.
As the Bulls regroup for their upcoming clash with Charlotte, the focus is on bouncing back and securing a coveted bowl berth. The Senior Night matchup at Raymond James Stadium promises to be a thrilling spectacle, offering fans an opportunity to witness the resilience and determination of the USF football team.
