South Florida has quickly emerged as one of college football’s most surprising early-season stories, knocking off two ranked opponents in consecutive weeks and launching themselves into the national spotlight.
The Bulls opened their 2025 campaign with a commanding 34-7 victory over No. 25 Boise State in Tampa. Quarterback Byrum Brown led the charge with two rushing touchdowns and 210 passing yards, while a perfectly executed fake punt touchdown pass to Keshaun Singleton helped seal the dominant win. This victory snapped an 18-game losing streak against ranked teams and marked South Florida’s first win over a Top 25 opponent since 2016.
A week later, the Bulls stunned No. 19 Florida in Gainesville, 18-16, with Nico Gramatica’s walk-off 20-yard field goal as time expired. South Florida capitalized on critical penalties and clock mismanagement by the Gators during an 87-yard final drive. Defensively, the Bulls held Florida to just field goals on multiple red zone opportunities and forced key turnovers in crunch time. The back-to-back upsets have propelled South Florida into the AP Top 25, now ranked No. 18, as they prepare for their biggest test yet—a road showdown with No. 5 Miami.
Miami preview: Can South Florida pull off another stunner?
Miami enters Week 3 with confidence after strong performances in their first two games. In Week 2, the Hurricanes dominated Bethune-Cookman behind quarterback Carson Beck’s nearly flawless night, completing 22 of 24 passes for 267 yards and two touchdowns. Running back Mark Fletcher Jr. added 152 rushing yards and two scores, showcasing the balanced attack Miami boasts.
Their season opener was a nail-biter, with Miami edging then-No. 13 Notre Dame 27-24. Beck threw for 205 yards and two touchdowns while demonstrating poise in high-pressure situations. The Hurricanes’ efficient offense and physical defense make them a formidable opponent for the surging Bulls.
Head-to-head matchup breakdown
South Florida relies on quarterback Byrum Brown, who has totaled 453 yards and four touchdowns through the first two games, supported by a running back committee that combines power and speed. Their receiving corps, led by Keshaun Singleton and Chas Nimrod, provides explosive playmaking ability. Defensively, the Bulls are opportunistic and particularly strong in the red zone. On special teams, kicker Nico Gramatica has been reliable, converting three of four field goal attempts.
Miami counters with quarterback Carson Beck, who boasts 472 yards, four touchdowns, and a 76% completion rate, while running back Mark Fletcher Jr. has rushed for 234 yards and three touchdowns. The Hurricanes feature a deep receiving unit known for elite speed and hands. Defensively, Miami presents a physical front seven and a disciplined secondary, complemented by solid special teams play, including dependable kicking and a strong return game.
Team stats & national rankings
South Florida boasts a stout defense allowing just 11.5 points per game, a turnover margin of +3, and ranks in the top 10 nationally for red zone defense. Miami leads with a total offense averaging 468 yards per game, boasts a 78.5% completion percentage (top 5 nationally), and scores 29.5 points per game.
Historical context
This marks the first meeting between South Florida and Miami since 2013, when Miami won 49-21. The Bulls hold a 1-5 all-time record against the Hurricanes, with their only victory coming in 2010. A South Florida win would rewrite recent history and cement their place as a legitimate contender under head coach Alex Golesh.
Coaching comparison
Alex Golesh has transformed USF in three seasons, instilling swagger, precision, and belief in a program once struggling to compete. Meanwhile, Miami’s Mario Cristobal has built the Hurricanes into a national powerhouse, known for elite recruiting and a physical, disciplined style of play. Their matchup is not just a game but a clash of rising coaching stars with postseason implications.
Game implications
For South Florida, a victory would likely push them into the Top 15 or even Top 10, solidifying their status as a New Year’s Six or playoff dark horse. For Miami, a win would maintain their trajectory as a playoff contender and ACC title favorite.
Expert outlook
Miami enters Week 3 favored by 16.5 points, reflecting their national powerhouse status and home-field advantage. While South Florida has impressive firepower and confidence from back-to-back upsets, questions linger about how long the Bulls can sustain this level of performance against elite competition. Miami’s depth and experience may prove decisive, but USF has demonstrated resilience and will not back down easily.
The Bulls will push the Hurricanes to the brink, but Miami’s superior depth and physicality could make the difference late in a tightly contested battle.
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