The South Florida Bulls delivered a dominant performance in their 63-30 victory over Tulsa,
earning bowl eligibility for the second consecutive season under head coach Alex Golesh. This win, marked by offensive explosiveness and defensive resilience, showcased the Bulls’ potential as they continue to build a competitive program.
The game started with a bang when Kelley Joiner scored on a 48-yard run just 41 seconds into the first quarter. By the end of the quarter, USF had built a commanding 28-0 lead, showcasing their ability to start strong—an area they had previously struggled with. The Bulls finished with a staggering 715 yards of total offense, the second-highest in program history and the most ever against an FBS opponent.
Quarterback Bryce Archie led the charge, throwing for a career-high 305 yards and two touchdowns, along with a rushing score. Joiner contributed 133 rushing yards and two touchdowns, further cementing his place in USF history by moving into sixth on the program’s all-time rushing list. Freshman tight end Jonathan Echols also made his mark with a 59-yard touchdown reception, highlighting the depth and future promise of the roster.
Defensively, the Bulls forced five turnovers for the second consecutive game. Notable plays included Tawfiq Byard’s first career interception and a fumble recovery, as well as James Chenault’s remarkable effort in chasing down a Tulsa running back on a 77-yard run, which ultimately led to a goal-line stand. These moments underscored the team’s growing grit and discipline, hallmarks of Golesh’s leadership.
This victory also marked a return to form for USF’s rushing attack, which has been a consistent strength this season. The Bulls logged over 300 rushing yards for the fourth time this year, bringing their season total to 30 rushing touchdowns—a mark tied for the second-best in school history.
Coach Golesh emphasized that while bowl eligibility is a milestone, the program’s ultimate goal is to compete for championships. He praised the team’s resilience, particularly in overcoming challenges such as a disrupted schedule due to a hurricane earlier in the season. With a chance to close the regular season strong against Rice, USF is poised to carry momentum into their postseason bowl game.
This victory not only secured a postseason berth but also reinforced the Bulls’ identity as a team capable of dominating on both sides of the ball. As the program continues to develop under Golesh’s guidance, the win against Tulsa serves as a testament to USF’s growing potential and aspirations for greater success.
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