South Florida Bulls Spring Game Review

White v. Green

A sun-soaked Corbett Stadium on the USF campus bore witness to a riveting display of gridiron prowess as a sold-out crowd of 5,168 fans roared with excitement during the USF Spring Game presented by USF Health. Amidst a backdrop of blue skies and balmy weather, the clash between the White and Green teams unfolded, culminating in a tightly contested showdown with standout performances leaving spectators on the edge of their seats.

Linebacker Jhalyn Shuler of Abbeville, S.C., spearheaded the defensive charge for the White team, showcasing his prowess with 12 tackles and 1.5 sacks, reminiscent of his stellar form from the previous season. Joining him in the defensive fray, cornerback Brent Austin, a transfer from James Madison, contributed seven tackles, underscoring the depth of talent on display. Meanwhile, freshman sensation Izzy Carter, hailing from Corona, Calif., dazzled at quarterback, orchestrating an aerial assault with precision and poise, completing 12-of-23 passes for 123 yards and a touchdown.

The White team wasted no time asserting their dominance, with wide receiver Sean Atkins engineering a picture-perfect trick play in the first quarter, connecting with Kelley Joiner for a 16-yard touchdown pass, sending the crowd into a frenzy. Not to be outdone, Gunner Greenwald showcased his receiving prowess with three catches for a game-high 49 yards, cementing his status as a formidable threat in the passing game.

As the game progressed, the Green team mounted a spirited comeback, punctuated by a 34-yard touchdown pass from Izzy Carter to Christian Helms in the third quarter, igniting hopes of a late rally. Despite their valiant efforts, the White team held firm, securing a hard-fought 10-7 victory, much to the delight of the jubilant supporters.

Looking ahead, Head Coach Alex Golesh’s squad enters the 2024 season with renewed optimism and a wealth of talent at their disposal. With a staggering 20 returning starters, including record-setting quarterback Byrum Brown and standout wide receiver Sean Atkins, the Bulls are poised to build upon their remarkable achievements from the previous campaign. Bolstered by a formidable defense boasting stalwarts such as Jhalyn Shuler and interception leader Logan Berryhill, expectations are running high as the Bulls set their sights on further glory.

As the countdown to the 2024 season opener against Bethune Cookman commences, the fervor and anticipation surrounding USF football reach fever pitch, fueled by the promise of exhilarating gridiron action and the unwavering support of the Bulls faithful.

Stadium Update for South Florida Bulls

The University of South Florida (USF) has unveiled a tantalizing glimpse into the future with the release of three renderings showcasing the transformative on-campus stadium set to redefine the Bulls’ athletic landscape. More than just a venue for football, the stadium promises to be a beacon of shared campus spirit, fostering connections and memories that transcend the gridiron.

Embodying the essence of USF’s vibrant culture, the stadium represents a monumental step forward, symbolizing the university’s commitment to providing a dynamic, inclusive campus experience. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, the renderings offer a glimpse into a facility that promises to captivate and inspire all who step foot within its hallowed grounds.

Central to the stadium’s vision is its role as a nexus of campus life, offering students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members a gathering place to celebrate their passion for USF. From spirited football games to year-round events, the stadium will serve as a hub of activity, fostering a sense of belonging and pride that permeates throughout the university community.

The conceptual renderings showcase several key features that underscore the stadium’s commitment to excellence and inclusivity. An innovative east-west build ensures maximum shade for daytime events, while a dedicated student section in the west end boasts unique design elements tailored to the USF experience. An open concourse encircling the stadium offers unobstructed views of the field, enhancing the fan experience at every turn.

Moreover, the stadium will offer a plethora of premium seating options, including suites, loge boxes, and club areas, ensuring that every fan can enjoy the game in style. Additionally, a spacious tailgating area on the north side of the stadium promises to be a vibrant pre-game hub, further enhancing the game-day atmosphere.

The design process has been a collaborative endeavor, with input gathered from a diverse array of stakeholders through listening sessions. This inclusive approach ensures that the stadium reflects the aspirations and desires of the entire USF community, setting the stage for a truly transformative experience.

In a significant milestone, USF announced a generous $6 million gift from the USF Federal Credit Union to name the walkway leading into the stadium, symbolizing a partnership rooted in shared values and commitment to excellence. With over $43 million already raised for the stadium project, the university is well on its way to achieving its ambitious fundraising goal.

Looking ahead, the countdown to the stadium’s opening in fall 2027 has officially begun, with plans in place to ensure a seamless transition and optimal fan experience from day one. With the Tampa General Hospital Center for Athletic Excellence poised to complement the new stadium, USF is poised to usher in a new era of athletic prowess and campus pride, solidifying its status as a powerhouse in collegiate athletics.