News Summary
The University of South Florida (USF) football team achieved a decisive 59-24 victory over Charlotte University, improving their season record to 5-5. With six rushing touchdowns and a record-setting 425 rushing yards, the Bulls demonstrated an outstanding ground game. Running back Kelley Joiner led the effort with 140 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The game showcased strong performances, especially in the third quarter where USF scored 31 points, setting a program record. USF now prepares for an important matchup against the University of Tulsa as they vie for bowl eligibility.
Tampa, Florida
The University of South Florida (USF) football team achieved a decisive victory against Charlotte University with a final score of 59-24 on Saturday. This win improves USF’s season record to 5-5 and positions them one game away from bowl eligibility, as they need to win at least one of their last two games.
As a result of the loss, Charlotte’s record falls to 3-7, effectively ending their aspirations for a bowl game this season. The Bulls demonstrated a powerful ground game, setting a new program record by rushing for an impressive 425 yards and scoring a season-high of six rushing touchdowns during the match.
Outstanding Performances
Running back Kelley Joiner was particularly noteworthy, amassing 140 rushing yards and adding two touchdowns to his tally, averaging a remarkable 15.6 yards per carry. His performance was a key factor in the Bulls’ offensive success.
The game mirrored the typical ups and downs seen in previous contests, with USF quarterback Bryce Archie throwing an interception on his first drive. Charlotte started strong, quickly taking the lead with a 6-yard rushing touchdown from Cartevious Norton, putting the score at 7-0.
USF responded vigorously, converting a crucial fourth down and subsequently scoring a touchdown on a run by Ta’Ron Keith. However, Charlotte regained the lead briefly with a 50-yard field goal, making the score 10-7. The Bulls managed to pull ahead again as Nay’Quan Wright scored on a 6-yard touchdown following a significant 44-yard catch.
Dominance in the Third Quarter
The second half began intensely with Joiner breaking free for a 54-yard touchdown run, extending USF’s lead to 21-10. The Bulls exhibited dominant play in the third quarter, scoring an astounding 31 points, setting a new program record for points scored in a single quarter.
During this pivotal quarter, additional scores included a touchdown by Wright, and the Bulls’ defense remarkably contributed with two defensive touchdowns. The USF defense was a formidable force throughout the game, recording five sacks, forcing four turnovers, and scoring twice on defensive plays.
Joiner continued to excel, concluding his standout performance with another touchdown on a 45-yard run. Freshman Alvon Issac also made his mark by scoring his first career touchdown on a 9-yard run.
Looking Ahead
Following this commanding victory, USF’s head coach highlighted the substantial contributions from the offensive line, tight ends, and running backs. These players played a crucial role in the team’s effectiveness on the ground.
USF now looks forward to their next challenge, facing the University of Tulsa on Saturday, Nov. 23, at 3:30 p.m.. This important matchup will be held at Raymond James Stadium as the Bulls aim to secure their bowl eligibility with a victory.
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Additional Resources
- ESPN: College Football Betting
- Wikipedia: College Football
- CBS Sports: Miami vs. South Florida
- Google Search: Miami Hurricanes South Florida Bulls college football
- Palm Beach Post: Miami-USF Predictions
- Google Scholar: Miami Hurricanes South Florida Bulls
- SI: Alex Golesh and USF
- Encyclopedia Britannica: USF football
- New York Post: College Football Week 3 Predictions
- Google News: USF Bulls football
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
