The Bulls’ Big Play: A Victory to Remember
USF fans had plenty to cheer about as the Bulls opened their season with a dominant 48-3 win over Bethune-Cookman University. The highlight of the night came early when quarterback Byrum Brown broke free on a third-and-2 play for a 42-yard touchdown run, securing a lead that the Bulls would never relinquish. This electrifying moment not only marked the second-longest run of Brown’s career but also his 15th career rushing touchdown in just 17 games.
Game Balls: Standout Performances
Several Bulls players delivered exceptional performances that contributed to the team’s decisive victory:
- PK John Cannon: Cannon’s 53-yard field goal, the third-longest in USF history, was a standout moment. He also made a 40-yarder, adding to his growing legacy at USF.
- RB Kelley Joiner: Joiner’s 14 carries for 78 yards and two touchdowns made this his most productive game since 2021. It was also his first time scoring two rushing touchdowns in a single USF game.
- B-backer Rico Watson III: In his USF debut, Watson, a graduate student from Armwood High School, made six tackles, including two for a loss and a half-sack.
- LB Jhalyn Shuler and SS D’Marco Augustin: Both players secured interceptions, adding to the Bulls’ defensive dominance.
- WR Abdur-Rahmaan Yaseen: The Purdue transfer led USF in receiving with five catches for 73 yards, including a 44-yarder, in his debut.
Dee-fense! Dee-fense!
USF’s defense, which struggled last season, showed significant improvement in the opener. The Bulls’ defense included seven first-time starters, yet they performed as a cohesive unit, holding B-CU to just three points.
“We were flying around and on the first six (B-CU) drives, we gave up 9 yards,” Golesh said. “I thought we flew around with a violent intent. We got our hands on balls. We stopped the run. We took the air out of it.”
Golesh Praises Fan Support
The USF/B-CU game drew 36,694 fans to Raymond James Stadium, marking the highest attendance for an American Athletic Conference program so far this season. Golesh expressed his gratitude for the fan support and encouraged students to continue showing up in large numbers.
Behind the Curtain: The Details You Might Have Missed
USF’s aggressive approach was on full display as they attacked every opportunity, including in the closing moments of the first half. A strategic time-out led to a 53-yard field goal by John Cannon, showcasing the Bulls’ never-surrender attitude. Special teams also shined, with impressive performances from punter Andrew Stokes and returners Ta’Ron Keith and Sean Atkins.
Next Up: Alabama
USF’s next challenge is a prime-time showdown against Alabama. Bulls fans are eagerly anticipating this game, especially after last season’s close contest. Despite Alabama’s dominance, including a 63-0 win over Western Kentucky, Coach Golesh remains confident.
“If we play to our potential and we get our process right … we’ll have a chance to go win the football game,” Golesh said.
The stage is set for what promises to be one of the most exciting games in USF’s history.
