Top 30 USF Players of Francois Era: No. 5 - QB Jed White (2025-2027)
Charlie Flowers -- gousfbulls.com
Recruiting Profile: 6th ranked QB in 2025 | 6'5", 239lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star
Career Stats: 672 of 907, 8001 yards, 77 touchdowns, 33 interceptions, 482 carries, 3391 yards, 61 touchdowns, 10 fumbles
Games Started: 27
Record as Starter: 25-2
Record vs. UCF: 2-0
Conference Championships: 1 (SEC)
Bowl Record: 2-0 (National Championship, Citrus Bowl)
BCS Bowl Record: 1-0 (National Championship)
National Championships: 1
Accolades: 2026 1st team All-SEC, 2027 1st team All-SEC, 2026 1st team All-American, 2026 Heisman Award winner (best player), 2026 Maxwell Award Winner (best offensive player), 2026 Walter Camp Award Winner (best offensive player), 2026 O'Brian Trophy Winner (best QB), 2027 2nd team All-SEC, 2027 Maxwell Award Winner (best offensive player), 2027 Walter Camp Award Winner (best offensive player)
If White's junior season had gone better, he probably ends up at #1. The crazy thing is even with his turnover issues', he still won the Maxwell and the Walter Camp Award once more.
A day-one contributor, White helped the team as a true freshman being used as a utility player behind quarterback Nick Williams. It was evident through White's first fourteen games as a college pro that he was going to be a star and the Bulls were ranked #2 heading into the next season despite White having zero career starts under his belt.
It didn't seem to matter as White knocked the door down with ease in the team's first season in the SEC and was the driver of one of college football's best teams ever and certainly a top five offense of all time. He would go on to win the Heisman that season and lead the Bulls to a national championship.
At the time he left USF, he was school's all time leader in both passing and rushing touchdowns which is just a phenomenal feat.
Bulls beat out Stanford, Alabama on the recruiting trail to land commitment from four-star ATH Brian Clay
Eddie Fernandez -- 247 Sports USF Insider
Four-star prospect Brian Clay out of Alvin High School in Alvin, Texas has committed to the University of South Florida, choosing to play for the Bulls over offers from Stanford, Alabama and others.
Despite being listed as a receiver on his high school roster, Clay's primary recruiter has been running backs coach Blake Morris, an indication that's where USF is planning on using him. Clay is more of a 'gadget' player for the Yellowjackets, having more career carries (305) than receptions (96) in his career at Alvin High School.
Quicker than fast, Clay projects to be a third-down or receiving option out of the backfield at the next level if he converts to being a full time running back. Staying at receiver isn't out of the picture as he has improved his route running and releases as a senior but ultimately, his biggest attribute is when the ball is in his hand as he has a good feel for the game and takes good tracks.
With 38 total touchdowns in high school, Clay has a nose for the end zone and is the type of player that will find a way to make an impact on the field, whether at receiver or running back. In comparing him to a recent prospect that came out of high school with no true position, he's more explosive than Carl Graham who ended up being a full time receiver with the Bulls.
2044 USF Recruiting Class
WR Donald Jones [ATH #1]: 6'0", 206lbs | Jacksonville, FL | 5-star | 4.48 40-yd dash, 300 Bench Press Max, 320 Squat Max
HB Brian Clay [ATH #12]: 5'11", 178lbs | Alvin, TX | 4-star | 4.40 40-yd dash, 250 Bench Press Max, 305 Squat Max
QB Kevin Meadows [QB #1]: 6'4", 244lbs | Hollywood, FL | 4-star | 4.44 40-yd dash, 305 Bench Press Max, 345 Squat Max
OLB Paul Mason [OLB #3]: 6'5", 211lbs | Laurel, MS | 4-star | 4.56 40-yd dash, 430 Bench Press Max, 580 Squat Max
G Mike Miller [G #2]: 6'4", 290lbs | Olney, MD [IMG] | 4-star | 4.76 40-yd dash, 425 Bench Press Max, 670 Squat Max
WR Will Madison [WR #22]: 6'3", 185lbs | Stillwater, OK | 4-star | 4.50 40-yd dash, 265 Bench Press Max, 250 Squat Max
TE Matt Jordan [TE #8]: 6'6", 265lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star | 4.68 40-yd dash, 405 Bench Press Max, 265 Squat Max
OLB Kevin Harris [OLB #10]: 5'11", 180lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | 4.50 40-yd dash, 370 Bench Press Max, 595 Squat Max
CB Ernest Bright [CB #5]: 6'2", 185lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | 4.36 40-yd dash, 325 Bench Press Max, 260 Squat Max
DT Dan James [DT #8]: 6'5", 280lbs | Monte Vista, CO | 4-star | 5.18 40-yd dash, 430 Bench Press Max, 620 Squat Max
T Tim Hill [T #7]: 6'5", 291lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star | 4.90 40-yd dash, 435 Bench Press Max, 630 Squat Max
DB Sean Hart [ATH #39]: 6'0", 185lbs | Northbrook, IL | 4-star | 4.38 40-yd dash, 235 Bench Press Max, 250 Squat Max
S Courtney Jones [S #7]: 6'3", 183lbs | Orlando, FL | 4-star | 4.46 40-yd dash, 345 Bench Press Max, 345 Squat Max
OLB Ryan Jones [OLB #19]: 6'5", 239lbs | Fairfax, VA | 4-star | 4.60 40-yd dash, 425 Bench Press Max, 670 Squat Max
2044 USF Recruiting Board
G Tim Williams [G #7]: 6'3", 290lbs | Robinson, PA [IMG] | 4-star | USF, Army, Minnesota
ILB Justin Smith [ILB #7]: 6'2", 225lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | USF, Troy, Virginia Tech, Georgia
DB Michael Williams [ATH #20]: 6'0", 194lbs | Jonesboro, LA | 4-star | USF, Mississippi State, LSU
WR Mark Collier [ATH #31]: 6'0", 216lbs | Clute, TX | 4-star | Toledo, USF
DE Alex Kelley [DE #20]: 6'3", 247lbs | Pecos, TX | 4-star | USF, Army
WR Theo Smith [WR #43]: 6'0", 171lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | USF, Akron, Navy, Kansas, Rutgers
FB/TE/OL Brian Daniel [C #25]: 6'5", 288lbs | Lakeland, FL | 3-star | USF, Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech, Stanford, Middle Tennessee State
FB Gemara McDonald [TE #69]: 6'5", 277lbs | Conyers, GA | 3-star | Kansas State, Eastern Michigan, Georgia Tech, Minnesota, USF
Week 9 Top Stories
1. Cardinal take care of Champions Division opponent Michigan 38-14.
2. Georgia Tech notches a conference win behind the arm of Davis against Virginia Tech.
3. BYU stays unbeaten with a 42-21 win vs. conference rival Colorado.
4. Fresno State's undefeated season is over as they fall to the Aztecs 41-21.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Week 9 Champions Division Results
STAN 38 - MICH 14 | GT 27 - VT 24 | PUR 38 - LSU 10
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Week 10 Champions Division Schedule
#11 Minnesota (4-3, 2-3) at #5 USF (4-2, 2-2)
#10 Georgia Tech (5-2, 2-2) at #2 Stanford (6-1, 6-1)
Purdue (3-3, 1-2) at #7 Ohio State (4-2, 1-2)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Week 10 Notable Games
#22 UCLA (5-2, 3-2 Contenders) at #15 Oklahoma (5-2, 4-1 Contenders)
NC State (6-1, 4-0 AAC) at #21 North Carolina (6-1, 3-1 AAC)
Florida State (5-3, 4-2 Rising) at #8 Miami (5-1, 4-0 Rising)
#20 Arizona State (6-1, 3-0 Pac 12) at #9 Fresno State (7-1, 3-1 Pac 12)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Champions Division and College Football Playoffs Guidelines
- The top four teams from the Champions Division will be awarded an automatic bid into the College Football Playoffs. The remaining four spots are voted upon by the committee and can contain non ANAC members
- Once the teams are selected, the committee votes on the seeding as well
- ANAC members that are selected for the playoffs are automatically promoted or retain their place within the Champions Division for next season
- The bottom team in the Champions Division is automatically relegated and the top team in the Contenders Division is automatically promoted
- The remaining non-playoff teams in the Champions Division will compete in a play-in bowl with top seeded, non-playoff Contenders Division members for the right to play in the Champions Division the next season
- Bottom eight finishers in the Contenders Division are relegated and replaced with the top eight finishers in the Rising Division
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Champions Division Standings
1. Stanford, 6-1, 6-1
2. Alabama, 7-2, 4-2
3. Virginia Tech, 5-3, 4-3
4. Georgia Tech, 5-2, 2-2
5. USF 4-2, 2-2
6. Minnesota, 4-3, 2-3
7. Michigan, 3-3, 2-3
8. Ohio State, 4-2, 1-2
9. Purdue, 3-3, 1-2
10. LSU, 1-7, 1-5
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Contenders Division Promotion Zone
1. BYU, 6-0, 3-0
2. Georgia, 7-2, 6-1
3. Oklahoma, 5-2, 4-1
4. Oregon, 6-1, 4-1
5. Michigan State, 5-3, 4-2
6. UCLA, 5-2, 3-2
7. Texas, 4-3, 2-2
8. Arkansas, 4-5, 4-4
9. Wisconsin, 4-4, 3-3
10. Auburn, 4-4, 4-4
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rising Division Promotion Zone
1. Miami, 5-1, 4-0
2. Nebraska, 7-1, 5-1
3. Kansas State, 5-2, 4-1
4. Penn State, 6-1, 3-1
5. Florida State, 5-3, 4-2
6. Washington, 4-3, 3-2
7. Indiana, 4-3, 2-2
8. Kansas, 5-2, 2-2
9. Ole Miss, 4-4, 3-3
10. USC, 4-4, 3-4
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- College Football Playoff Rankings
1. Army, 8-0
2. Stanford, 6-1
3. Southern Miss, 6-1
4. BYU, 6-0
5. Alabama, 7-2
6. Virginia Tech, 5-3
7. Georgia Tech, 5-2
8. USF, 4-2
---------------
9. Ohio State, 4-2
10. Miami, 5-1
11. Fresno State, 7-1
12. Minnesota, 4-3
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Heisman Watch
QB Justin Weeks (San Diego State): W 41-21 at Fresno State - 27 of 41, 362 yards, 28 carries, 135 yards, 3 total touchdowns
QB Michael Butler (Nebraska): W 48-31 vs. Florida Atlantic - 10 of 14, 166 yards 9 carries, 31 yards, touchdown
QB Mike Stevenson (Penn State): Bye Week
QB Vincent Pleasant (Virginia Tech): L 27-24 at Georgia Tech - 6 of 10, 144 yards, 20 carries, 96 yards, 3 total touchdowns
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Players of the Week
QB Derek Robinson (SMU): W 48-14 at Rice - 24 of 34, 314 yards, 19 carries, 55 yards, 6 total touchdowns
DT Jeremy Tyler (Purdue): W 38-10 vs. LSU - 9 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, forced fumble, fumble recovery
-------
WR Paul Carter (Stanford): W 38-14 vs. Michigan - 10 receptions, 230 yards, 3 touchdowns
DT Jeremy Tyler (Purdue): W 38-10 vs. LSU - 9 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, forced fumble, fumble recovery
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Top 247 Five-Star Commitments
#2 Donald Jones [ATH #1]: 6'0", 206lbs | Jacksonville, FL | 5-star | University of South Florida
#3 Anthony Johnson [HB #1]: 6'1", 196lbs | Fountain Hills, AZ | 5-star | University of Arizona
#4 Jeffrey Coleman [WR #1]: 6'0", 187lbs | Escondido, CA | 5-star | Naval Academy
#7 Glenn Washington [ATH #4]: 6'2", 206lbs | Atlanta, GA | 5-star | Georgia Technical Institute
#8 Jeff Jefferson [ATH #5]: 6'3", 189lbs | Lakeville, MN | 5-star | University of Wisconsin
#10 Darius Jenkins [ATH #7]: 6'2", 226lbs | Clinton, TN | 5-star | University of Michigan
#17 Frank Goode [ATH #9]: 6'1", 200lbs | Jollyville, TX | 5-star | University of Oklahoma
#19 Terrance Smith [DE #1]: 6'5", 257lbs | Los Angeles, CA [IMG] | 5-star | University of Texas
#20 James Christian [HB #6]: 6'0", 198lbs | Dale City, VA [IMG] | 5-star | University of Tennessee
#21 Orlando Brown [HB #7]: 5'11", 195lbs | Miami, FL | 5-star | Florida State University
#22 Jason Barnes [DE #2]: 6'2", 252lbs | Balch Springs, TX [IMG] | 5-star | Ohio State University
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Notable Florida Recruiting Commitments
#2 Donald Jones [ATH #1]: 6'0", 206lbs | Jacksonville, FL | 5-star | University of South Florida
#21 Orlando Brown [HB #7]: 5'11", 195lbs | Miami, FL | 5-star | Florida State University
#42 Kevin Meadows [QB #1]: 6'4", 244lbs | Hollywood, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#81 Blake Wright [ATH #24]: 5'10", 205lbs | Oakland Park, FL | 4-star | University of Miami
#98 Chris Wesley [WR #16]: 6'2", 175lbs | Fort Myers, FL | 4-star | Virginia Tech University
#110 Travis Elliott [OLB #8]: 6'2", 219lbs | Melbourne, FL | 4-star | Michigan State University
#121 Shaun Wright [WR #23]: 6'0", 200lbs | Hollywood, FL | 4-star | Notre Dame University
#131 Matt Jordan [TE #8]: 6'6", 265lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#140 John Carpenter [DE #13]: 6'7", 260lbs | St. Cloud, FL | 4-star | Auburn University
#141 Jared Phillips [G #9]: 6'5", 289lbs | Orlando, FL | 4-star | University of Central Florida
#142 Steven Engel [G #10]: 6'3", 296lbs | Mulberry, FL [IMG] | 4-star | Virginia Tech University
#148 Kevin Harris [OLB #10]: 5'11", 180lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#150 Patrick White [ATH #34]: 6'1", 271lbs | Bradenton, FL [IMG] | 4-star | University of Alabama
#175 Ernest Bright [CB #5]: 6'2", 185lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#193 Tim Hill [T #7]: 6'5", 291lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#212 Robert Myrick [OLB #13]: 6'0", 229lbs | Cape Coral, FL | 4-star | University of Texas
#248 Courtney Jones [S #7]: 6'3", 183lbs | Orlando, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#255 Jared Ryan [HB #37]: 6'2", 210lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star | University of Alabama - Birmingham
#279 Ryan Bell [QB #7]: 6'0", 210lbs | Palm Bay, FL | 4-star | University of Alabama
Last edited by Soapy on 07 Oct 2023, 05:54, edited 1 time in total.
Week 10 Preview: vs. #11 Minnesota Gophers
Record: 4-3, 2-3 Champions Division
Head Coach: Lance Woods (30-16 at Minnesota, 4th year)
Offensive Coordinator: Kris Lloyd (Multiple)
Defensive Coordinator: Kevin Parker (3-4 D)
Team Leaders
Passing: Anthony Nelson (774 yards, 8 TD, 7 INT, 120.7 rating)
Rushing: Nick Myers (455 yards, 6.2 ypc, 2 TD)
Receiving: Joshua Peterson (29 receptions, 303 yards, 2 TD)
Defense: David Holiday (31 tackles, 17 TFL, 4.5 sacks)
Team Rankings
Points Per Game: 78th
Total Offense: 51st
Rushing Offense: 26th
Passing Offense: 93rd
Total Defense: 33rd
Rushing Defense: 76th
Passing Defense: 23rd
Turnover Differential: 72nd
Team Schedule
vs. #6 Alabama: L 29-28
vs. #2 Stanford: L 55-21
vs. North Dakota State: W 28-0
at #10 Georgia Tech: L 35-14
vs. #18 Michigan: W 30-14
at LSU: W 27-13
at Northwestern: W 38-35
Injuries
USF OLB Oliver Colvin, Freshman (probable)
USF WR Ryan Murray, Freshman (doubtful)
USF FB Jake Thompson, Senior (doubtful)
Recruiting Class in Review: USF lands a big time class at the time but looking back, plenty of swings and misses
Eddie Fernandez -- 247 Sports USF Insider
What a loaded class it was at the time with two five-star running backs, the top ranked player in the country, two five-star offensive linemen and that's before you even get to the Smith brothers, who were five-star talents albeit their four and three-star rankings.
When it was all said and done, how does this class grade out? The grading criteria is as follows: 1 star for non-contributor, 2 star for depth player, 3 star for contributor, 4 star for impact starter, 5 star for a star player.
2040 USF Recruiting Class
WR Carl Graham [ATH #1]: 6'3", 233lbs | Clifton, AZ | 5-star | 4.40 40-yd dash, 305 Bench Press Max, 220 Squat Max
Career Stats » 189 receptions, 2421 yards, 17 touchdowns, 11 drops
Analysis » While Graham ultimately was never a true star at USF which is what being the top ranked recruit begets of you, he was a consistent option in the slot that provided some run after the catch potential and once he improved on the drops later in his career, he was one of the better slot options in the country.
Grade » 4-star
HB Jacob Wheeler [HB #1]: 5'10", 180lbs | Tampa, FL | 5-star | 4.30 40-yd dash, 325 Bench Press Max, 335 Squat Max
Career Stats » 513 carries, 3346 yards, 31 touchdowns, 7 fumbles, 86 receptions, 607 yards, 6 touchdowns, 5 drops, 34 kick returns, 1098 yards, 2 touchdowns, 15 punt returns, 142 yards
Analysis » When you land a five-star running back, the production that Wheeler provide is exactly what you want out of them. He was uber effective as a runner, provided some versatility as a pass catcher out of the backfield with 86 career receptions and even had two special teams touchdown to round out a very impressive career.
Grade » 5-star
HB Dominique Shelton [HB #2]: 6'0", 196lbs | South Sumter, SC | 5-star | 4.48 40-yd dash, 335 Bench Press Max, 345 Squat Max
Career Stats » 11 carries, 31 yards, 2 touchdowns at USF | 154 carries, 892 yards, 8 touchdowns at Georgia Tech
Analysis » Shelton redshirted his first season and had a limited role in his second year before transferring to Georgia Tech as he was stuck behind Wheeler and others at USF. He's been solid for the Yellow Jackets, averaging 44.6 rushing yards per game but injuries have really slowed him down in Atlanta. He has another year of eligibility left and could really turn up if he stays healthy.
Grade » 1-star
WR Billy Matthews [WR #5]: 6'0", 183lbs | Sarasota Springs, FL | 5-star | 4.56 40-yd dash, 255 Bench Press Max, 290 Squat
Career Stats »No stats at USF | 114 receptions, 1611 yards, 16 touchdowns at UCF
Analysis » Matthews struggled to get on the field as a true freshman, transferring to UCF where he's been a three-year starter for the Knights. He's averaging 108.4 yards per game this season for the Knights and could be an NFL prospect when it's all said and done.
Grade » 1-star
OL/FB/TE Jake Thompson [ATH #17]: 6'1", 275lbs | Kettering, OH | 5-star | 4.84 40-yd dash, 410 Bench Press Max, 620 Squat Max
Career Stats » 2 carries, 5 yards, 5 receptions, 15 yards, 9 pancakes, 3 sacks allowed
Analysis » Thompson was a backup center his first two seasons before making the move to right guard and right tackle as a junior, getting a few starts there before ultimately making the move to tight end/fullback in this year's offense. This was just a miss by both the Bulls coaching staff and the recruiting services as he just was never a five-star talent.
Grade » 2-star
C Kyle Jones [C #1]: 6'1", 284lbs | Raleigh, NC | 5-star | 5.04 40-yd dash, 450 Bench Press Max, 630 Squat Max
Career Stats » 21 pancakes, 9 sacks allowed
Analysis » A day one starter, Jones took over at center as a freshman and has started every game for the past four seasons. His struggles in 2042 were plenty but he's rebounding with a very good season and could put together an All-American campaign as a senior.
Grade » 4-star
DE/TE/OLB Marcellus Smith [DE #2]: 6'6", 239lbs | Clearwater, FL | 4-star | 4.74 40-yd dash, 435 Bench Press Max, 475 Squat Max
Career Stats » 6 carries, 4 yards, 6 receptions, 12 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 pancake, 94 tackles, 44 tackles for loss, 14 sacks, 5 pass breakups, forced fumble
Analysis » Smith initially played outside linebacker and some tight end during his first two seasons where he was relatively effective. He really took a big jump last year, recording 23 tackles for loss and nine sacks as he won the 2042 Lombardi. He hasn't been as consistent this season which is why he doesn't earn that fifth star.
Grade » 4-star
QB Mark Cunningham [QB #1]: 6'3", 211lbs | Augusta, GA | 4-star | 4.66 40-yd dash, 400 Bench Press Max, 275 Squat Max
Career Stats » 791 of 1095, 9262 yards, 69 touchdowns, 46 interceptions, sacked 71 times, 155.7 passer rating, 238 carries, 635 yards, 8 touchdowns, 11 fumbles
Analysis » One of the more polarizing players in recent USF history, Cunningham was part of two national championship teams where he played a role, including being the full time starter as a sophomore when the Bulls won it all. However, his interceptions and turnovers make up a lot of his legacy and his poor performance against Michigan in the playoffs during his junior season is likely what he will be remembered for.
Grade » 4-star
DT Nick Brown [DT #3]: 6'7", 283lbs | Groves, TX | 4-star | 5.08 40-yd dash, 425 Bench Press Max, 595 Squat Max
Career Stats » No stats at USF | 91 tackles, 28 tackles for loss, 9 sacks, pass breakup, 2 forced fumbles
Analysis » Brown bounced to Houston after one season at USF and he's been a stud for the Cougars and is on pace for an All-American season with 14 tackles for loss already and 3.5 sacks.
Grade » 1-star
CB Charlie Robinson [CB #1]: 6'4", 176lbs | Barberton, OH | 4-star | 4.40 40-yd dash, 240 Bench Press Max, 240 Squat Max
Career Stats » 55 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, 12 interceptions, 15 pass breakups
Analysis » It doesn't get much better than Robinson who was a key player for each season at USF and one of their better defensive players for the past two seasons.
Grade » 5-star
TE Taylor Smith [TE #8]: 6'3", 253lbs | Barnwell, SC [IMG] | 4-star | 4.64 40-yd dash, 325 Bench Press Max, 290 Squat Max
Career Stats » 28 receptions, 278 yards, TD
Analysis » Finally got a chance to start last season after being a backup and had a decent season, averaging 27.1 yards per game last season. Smith entered this season as the starter at tight end but has been losing snaps and playing time to true freshmen in Jake Bryant and Russell Arrington. All in all, this was a miss by the recruiting services and USF's coaching staff.
Grade » 3-star
CB Akeem Smith [CB #5]: 5'9", 183lbs | Tallahassee, FL | 4-star | 4.46 40-yd dash, 240 Bench Press Max, 240 Squat Max
Career Stats » 98 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 4 interceptions, 2 touchdowns, 7 pass breakups, fumble recovery
Analysis » While he didn't boast the interception totals of a Charlie Robinson and was a different type of corner, Akeem Smith is exactly what you'd want in a nickel corner as a physical, instinctive player that was a three-year stud for the Bulls.
Grade » 5-star
OLB Richard Smith [OLB #13]: 6'6", 235lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star | 4.54 40-yd dash, 430 Bench Press Max, 570 Squat Max
Career Stats » 16 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 4 sacks
Analysis » A late bloomer, Smith didn't see the field until this season where he's shown flashes of being a really good player. If he returns next season and continues on that trajectory, he could certainly earn that third and perhaps even fourth star
Grade » 2-star
DT Brandon Smith [DT #21]: 6'8", 360lbs | Clearwater, FL | 3-star | 4.72 40-yd dash, 455 Bench Press Max, 665 Squat Max
Career Stats » 69 tackles, 27 tackles for loss, 14 sacks, forced fumble
Analysis » A unique player in USF history, few has been as physically dominant as Smith who took over at nose tackle as a true freshman and never let go of that starting role. He's expanded his role the past few seasons, becoming a threat on passing downs as well and figures to be one of the top nose tackles in the draft.
Grade » 4-star
OLB James Scott [OLB #27]: 6'1", 208lbs | Tampa, FL | 3-star | 4.64 40-yd dash, 410 Bench Press Max, 630 Squat Max
Career Stats » 16 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 4 sacks
Analysis » Scott got his chance to play last season and did okay with 7 tackles for loss and four sacks but this season, he's lost playing time to Richard Smith and Oliver Colvin.
Grade » 2-star
OLB Joey Franklin [OLB #29]: 6'4", 229lbs | Manning, SC | 3-star | 4.58 40-yd dash, 425 Bench Press Max, 525 Squat Max
Career Stats » No stats
Analysis » A career backup and special teams player.
Grade » 1-star
DT Derek Simpson [DT #79]: 6'2", 286lbs | San Clemente, CA | 3-star | 4.86 40-yd dash, 460 Bench Press Max, 620 Squat Max
Career Stats » No stats
Analysis » A career backup.
Grade » 1-star
QB Brandon Riley [QB #76]: 5'11", 185lbs | Pinewood, FL (juco) | 3-star | 4.80 40-yd dash, 280 Bench Press Max, 300 Squat Max
Career Stats » No stats at USF | 317 of 628, 4084 yards, 29 touchdowns, 24 interceptions, sacked 56 times, 287 carries, 469 yards, 5 touchdowns, 5 fumbles
Analysis » Riley followed USF offensive coordinator DeMarcus Bennett to UCF where he struggled last season, throwing nineteen interceptions and fumbling five times. He's been a lot more consistent this season and having a solid year for the Knights.
Grade » 1-star
Superlative Awards Most Important Signing: For the second straight season, USF landed a top Tampa kid in Wheeler and while Carl Graham was the top ranked player in the country, Wheeler wasn't far behind him and the fact he was a Tampa prospect makes it that much bigger of a signing.
Most Productive Signing: Robinson and Akeem Smith have strong arguments but it's ultimately Wheeler again.
Biggest Bust of the Class: Shelton and Brown produced at other stops so it's Thompson who eventually turned into a starter level player but ultimately fell way short of his five-star billing.
Most Untapped Potential: On offense, it's Shelton who turned out to be a good player for the Yellow Jackets and defensively, Brown would have been a nice addition next to Brandon Smith.
Biggest Steal of the Class: Brandon Smith was a top prospect before his knee injury so this is cheating a little bit but the three-star prospect has played like a five-star at times so it's him.
Biggest Lost of the Class: Without question, Brandon and Marcellus' triplet brother Brian Smith Jr. who shocked everyone by committing to Southern Miss. He hasn't allowed a sack in the past two seasons and will likely be a top five pick in the NFL Draft.
Last edited by Soapy on 04 Oct 2023, 14:10, edited 2 times in total.
Woodard outlasts the Golden Gophers defense in a 41-40 shootout
"I think I saw Jesus Christ himself on that football field."
Even an hour removed from it all, USF head coach Malcolm Francois Sr. couldn't believe what he had just witnessed. After 30 years as head coach of the South Florida Bulls, the sport's all-time champion had never seen something quite like it.
"We tried our best to have them win the damn game," Francois Sr. said immediately after the game, "And then we tried our damn best to win it, I love this team."
Rashad Woodard's 58-yard completion to Joshua Butler on fourth and twelve with two minutes remaining to keep the game alive and Ernest Jones' interception less than a minute later will leave in infamy as both set up the improbable game winning field goal from Jonathan Love in the final seconds of the game in the Bulls magic 41-40 win over the Minnesota Gophers.
Nick Myers 13-yard touchdown with 5:27 remaining seemed to be the first nail in the coffin of the Bulls as it put Minnesota up by two scores in a game where USF had no answers for the Gophers rushing attack which finished with 315 yards on the ground, outgaining USF's rushing offense by over 200 yards.
Woodard's impressive play began at that moment, converting an early 3rd and 9 to keep the drive going with a nine yard completion to Scott Price, who had been kept in check for most of the game. Faced with another 3rd and 9, Woodard found Nick Weiss for the 15-yard pick up. On the next play, Woodard hooked up with Eddie Shaw for the sixteen yard touchdown.
Myers then picked up 27 yards on the first play of the next drive and then scored on a 33-yard touchdown run to once again extend their lead, this time with 3:17 remaining.
After converting the first third down, Woodard almost threw an interception on the next third and twelve but on fourth and twelve, he found Butler across the middle of the field in Francois Sr. called one of the most impressive throws he's ever seen.
"I think in context, that's up there. Pressure coming, got to put enough air on it, fourth down, had been intercepted on an earlier throw like that, on the dot. He's a special kid," Francois Sr. said of Woodard.
Justin Thomas found the end zone on the next play, making it a two-point game following the extra point. The Bulls then opted to go for the onside kick, even with three timeouts, and Minnesota was able to recover it. Francois Sr. explained after the game that he wanted to give his team two chances to get the ball back, once with the onside kick and another by making a defensive stop.
The latter seemed far fetched as Minnesota's running game got them to a manageable third down but the Gophers opted to throw the ball on a tunnel screen where Ernest Jones jumped the pass and intercepted it.
Woodard worked his magic once more, converting on a third and one with a scramble drill and found Thomas across the middle to pick up the first down and get within field goal range. USF would pick up some more yards, exhausting time and the Gophers timeout prior to Love's field goal.
---------------------------------------------------------------- Scoring Summary
Quarter 1
[MINN] N. Myers, 47 Yd run (4:33)
[USF] D. Parker, 1 Yd run (0:29)
Quarter 2
[USF] S. Price, 21 Yd pass from R. Woodard (7:29)
[MINN] T. Randle, 40 Yd FG (4:41)
[USF] J. Love, 24 Yd FG (2:39)
[MINN] T. Randle, 40 Yd FG (0:45)
Quarter 3
[MINN] N. Myers, 19 Yd run (5:18)
[USF] S. Price, 9 Yd run (2:37)
[MINN] T. Herman, 13 Yd pass from A. Nelson (1:04)
Quarter 4
[MINN] N. Myers, 13 Yd run -- 2pt failed (5:27)
[USF] E. Shaw, 16 Yd pass from R. Woodard (3:39)
[MINN] N. Myers, 33 Yd run (3:17)
[USF] J. Thomas, 1 Yd run (1:50)
[USF] J. Love, 17 Yd FG (0:02)
---------------------------------------------------------------- #5 South Florida Bulls
QB Rashad Woodard: 32 of 44, 421 yards, 2 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, sacked 2 times, 11 carries, 28 yards
HB Justin Thomas: 8 carries, 24 yards, touchdown, 8 receptions, 93 yards
HB Dave Parker: 5 carries, 27 yards, touchdown
HB Cameron Stokes: 4 carries, 13 yards
WR Eddie Shaw: 7 receptions, 107 yards, touchdown
TE Jake Bryant: 4 receptions, 48 yards
WR Joshua Butler: 3 receptions, 92 yards
WR Scott Price: 3 receptions, 39 yards, touchdown
S Clarence Sullivan: 9 tackles, 3 tackles for loss
CB Ernest Jones: 5 tackles, interception
LB Richard Smith: 4 tackles, 2 tackles for loss
CB Brandon Bryant: 2 tackles, interception
#11 Minnesota Gophers
QB Anthony Nelson: 18 of 24, 157 yards, touchdown, 2 interceptions, sacked once
HB Nick Myers: 27 carries, 290 yards, 4 touchdowns
WR Tim Herman: 8 receptions, 103 yards, touchdown
TE Roderick Collins: 3 receptions, 37 yards
CB Craig Graham: 10 tackles, 2 tackles for loss
S Reggie Bell: 7 tackles, interception
CB Matt Grimes: 4 tackles, interception
Last edited by Soapy on 08 Oct 2023, 06:41, edited 1 time in total.
Week 10 Top Stories
1. The previously-undefeated Cougars falter against Missouri.
2. Rutgers notches a conference win against Louisville behind the arm of Brown.
3. UCLA goes into a tough environment and beats Oklahoma in overtime.
4. USC outpaces Oklahoma State 51-45 in Rising Division.
5. Stanford controls all three phases of play in defending their turf against Georgia Tech.
6. Penn State keeps it exciting but loses 35-30 to Ole Miss.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Week 10 Champions Division Results
USF 41 - MINN 40 | STAN 42 - GT 14 | tOSU 36 - PUR 29
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Week 11 Champions Division Schedule
#4 USF (5-2, 3-2) at #14 Michigan (4-3, 2-3)
#18 Minnesota (4-4, 2-4) at #6 Ohio State (5-2, 2-2)
LSU (1-8, 1-5) at #5 Alabama (7-2, 4-2)
#15 Georgia Tech (5-3, 2-3) at Purdue (3-4, 1-3)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Week 11 Notable Games
#23 Missouri (5-4, 3-3 Contenders) at #19 Oklahoma (5-3, 4-2 Contenders)
#10 BYU (6-1, 3-1 Contenders) at #13 Oregon (7-1, 5-1 Contenders)
Louisville (5-3, 2-3 AAC) at #20 Navy (5-3, 4-2 AAC)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Champions Division and College Football Playoffs Guidelines
- The top four teams from the Champions Division will be awarded an automatic bid into the College Football Playoffs. The remaining four spots are voted upon by the committee and can contain non ANAC members
- Once the teams are selected, the committee votes on the seeding as well
- ANAC members that are selected for the playoffs are automatically promoted or retain their place within the Champions Division for next season
- The bottom team in the Champions Division is automatically relegated and the top team in the Contenders Division is automatically promoted
- The remaining non-playoff teams in the Champions Division will compete in a play-in bowl with top seeded, non-playoff Contenders Division members for the right to play in the Champions Division the next season
- Bottom eight finishers in the Contenders Division are relegated and replaced with the top eight finishers in the Rising Division
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Champions Division Standings
1. Stanford, 7-1, 7-1
2. Alabama, 7-2, 4-2
3. USF, 5-2, 3-2
4. Virginia Tech, 6-3, 4-3
5. Ohio State, 5-2, 2-2
6. Michigan, 4-3, 2-3
7. Georgia Tech, 5-3, 2-3
8. Minnesota, 4-4, 2-4
9. Purdue, 3-4, 1-3
10. LSU, 1-8, 1-5
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Contenders Division Promotion Zone
1. Georgia, 7-2, 6-1
2. Oregon, 7-1, 5-1
3. BYU, 6-1, 3-1
4. UCLA, 6-2, 4-2
5. Oklahoma, 5-3, 4-2
6. Michigan State, 5-4, 4-2
7. Texas, 5-3, 3-2
8. Wisconsin, 5-4, 4-3
9. Missouri, 5-4, 3-3
10. Florida, 5-5, 4-4
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Rising Division Promotion Zone
1. Miami, 6-1, 5-0
2. Nebraska, 8-1, 6-1
3. Kansas State, 5-3, 4-2
4. Penn State, 6-2, 3-2
5. Indiana, 5-3, 3-2
6. Florida State, 5-4, 4-3
7. Ole Miss, 5-4, 4-3
8. Texas A&M, 5-3, 3-3
9. USC, 5-4, 4-4
10. Washington, 4-4, 3-3
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- College Football Playoff Rankings
1. Army, 9-0
2. Stanford, 7-1
3. Southern Miss, 7-1
4. USF, 5-2
5. Alabama, 7-2
6. Virginia Tech, 6-3
7. Ohio State, 5-2
8. Miami, 6-1
---------------
9. Fresno State, 8-1
10. Nebraska, 8-1
11. BYU, 6-1
12. Georgia, 7-2
13. San Diego State, 7-2
14. Georgia Tech, 5-3
15. Michigan, 4-3
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Heisman Watch
QB Andrew Jones (Stanford): W 42-14 vs. Georgia Tech - 18 of 25, 241 yards, 32 carries, 165 yards, 6 total touchdowns
QB Justin Weeks (San Diego State): W 41-7 vs. Pittsburgh - 11 of 17, 174 yards, 12 carries, 78 yards, 3 total touchdowns
QB Michael Butler (Nebraska): W 35-25 at Washington - 10 of 17, 107 yards, 30 carries, 179 yards, 3 total touchdowns
QB Paul Davis (NC State): W 31-24 at North Carolina - 17 of 29, 227 yards, 26 carries, 133 yards, 3 total touchdowns
QB Vincent Pleasant (Virginia Tech): W 37-21 at Boston College - 26 of 32, 289 yards, 4 touchdowns, 16 carries, 72 yards
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Players of the Week
QB Andrew Jones (Stanford): W 42-14 vs. Georgia Tech - 18 of 25, 241 yards, 32 carries, 165 yards, 6 total touchdowns
CB Marcus Marshall (Utah State): W 35-7 at Colorado State - 7 tackles, tackle for loss, 3 interceptions
-------
QB Andrew Jones (Stanford): W 42-14 vs. Georgia Tech - 18 of 25, 241 yards, 32 carries, 165 yards, 6 total touchdowns
DT Jeremy Tyler (Purdue): L 36-29 at Ohio State - 10 tackles, forced fumble, 2 fumble recoveries
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Top 247 Five-Star Commitments
#2 Donald Jones [ATH #1]: 6'0", 206lbs | Jacksonville, FL | 5-star | University of South Florida
#3 Anthony Johnson [HB #1]: 6'1", 196lbs | Fountain Hills, AZ | 5-star | University of Arizona
#4 Jeffrey Coleman [WR #1]: 6'0", 187lbs | Escondido, CA | 5-star | Naval Academy
#7 Glenn Washington [ATH #4]: 6'2", 206lbs | Atlanta, GA | 5-star | Georgia Technical Institute
#8 Jeff Jefferson [ATH #5]: 6'3", 189lbs | Lakeville, MN | 5-star | University of Wisconsin
#10 Darius Jenkins [ATH #7]: 6'2", 226lbs | Clinton, TN | 5-star | University of Michigan
#17 Frank Goode [ATH #9]: 6'1", 200lbs | Jollyville, TX | 5-star | University of Oklahoma
#19 Terrance Smith [DE #1]: 6'5", 257lbs | Los Angeles, CA [IMG] | 5-star | University of Texas
#20 James Christian [HB #6]: 6'0", 198lbs | Dale City, VA [IMG] | 5-star | University of Tennessee
#21 Orlando Brown [HB #7]: 5'11", 195lbs | Miami, FL | 5-star | Florida State University
#22 Jason Barnes [DE #2]: 6'2", 252lbs | Balch Springs, TX [IMG] | 5-star | Ohio State University
-------------------------------------------------------------------------- Notable Florida Recruiting Commitments
#2 Donald Jones [ATH #1]: 6'0", 206lbs | Jacksonville, FL | 5-star | University of South Florida
#21 Orlando Brown [HB #7]: 5'11", 195lbs | Miami, FL | 5-star | Florida State University
#42 Kevin Meadows [QB #1]: 6'4", 244lbs | Hollywood, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#81 Blake Wright [ATH #24]: 5'10", 205lbs | Oakland Park, FL | 4-star | University of Miami
#98 Chris Wesley [WR #16]: 6'2", 175lbs | Fort Myers, FL | 4-star | Virginia Tech University
#110 Travis Elliott [OLB #8]: 6'2", 219lbs | Melbourne, FL | 4-star | Michigan State University
#121 Shaun Wright [WR #23]: 6'0", 200lbs | Hollywood, FL | 4-star | Notre Dame University
#131 Matt Jordan [TE #8]: 6'6", 265lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#140 John Carpenter [DE #13]: 6'7", 260lbs | St. Cloud, FL | 4-star | Auburn University
#141 Jared Phillips [G #9]: 6'5", 289lbs | Orlando, FL | 4-star | University of Central Florida
#142 Steven Engel [G #10]: 6'3", 296lbs | Mulberry, FL [IMG] | 4-star | Virginia Tech University
#148 Kevin Harris [OLB #10]: 5'11", 180lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#150 Patrick White [ATH #34]: 6'1", 271lbs | Bradenton, FL [IMG] | 4-star | University of Alabama
#169 Justin Smith [ILB #7]: 6'2", 225lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#175 Ernest Bright [CB #5]: 6'2", 185lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#193 Tim Hill [T #7]: 6'5", 291lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#212 Robert Myrick [OLB #13]: 6'0", 229lbs | Cape Coral, FL | 4-star | University of Texas
#248 Courtney Jones [S #7]: 6'3", 183lbs | Orlando, FL | 4-star | University of South Florida
#255 Jared Ryan [HB #37]: 6'2", 210lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star | University of Alabama - Birmingham
#279 Ryan Bell [QB #7]: 6'0", 210lbs | Palm Bay, FL | 4-star | University of Alabama
Bulls add two more defensive players to recruiting class in Berkeley's Justin Smith, 4-star defensive end Alex Kelley
Eddie Fernandez -- 247 Sports USF Insider
The University of South Florida has landed two more commitments to their top-ranked 2044 recruiting class in four-star linebacker Justin Smith and four-star defensive end Alex Kelley.
Smith was an all-state selection as a junior for Tampa Berkeley, recording 106 tackles, 20 tackles for loss and five sacks. A former safety, Smith is your prototypical WILL linebacker at the next level although he's primarily played MIKE in high school since making the move to linebacker as a sophomore. He's got more size than fellow commit Kevin Harris and when projecting a defense that features them as starters along with another commit in Paul Mason, Smith most naturally fits in at MIKE, Harris slots into WILL while Mason can play either JACK or SAM positions at linebacker.
He'll need some seasoning as he continues to learn and develop into the position, which is also the case with Harris as they figure to primarily special teams guy early in their careers while Mason has a better chance of making an early impact.
Kelley, who had 23 sacks as a HS freshman, is a former five-star recruit whose taken a dip in the rankings over the year since transferring to a higher classification at Pecos High School from Lubbock Christian, a private school, and facing tougher competition. Similar to Smith, this is a developmental take as Kelley is likely at least three years away from being able to play Champions Division level football but he's a natural pass rusher who just needs to round out the other areas of his game.
2044 USF Recruiting Class
WR Donald Jones [ATH #1]: 6'0", 206lbs | Jacksonville, FL | 5-star | 4.48 40-yd dash, 300 Bench Press Max, 320 Squat Max
HB Brian Clay [ATH #12]: 5'11", 178lbs | Alvin, TX | 4-star | 4.40 40-yd dash, 250 Bench Press Max, 305 Squat Max
QB Kevin Meadows [QB #1]: 6'4", 244lbs | Hollywood, FL | 4-star | 4.44 40-yd dash, 305 Bench Press Max, 345 Squat Max
OLB Paul Mason [OLB #3]: 6'5", 211lbs | Laurel, MS | 4-star | 4.56 40-yd dash, 430 Bench Press Max, 580 Squat Max
G Mike Miller [G #2]: 6'4", 290lbs | Olney, MD [IMG] | 4-star | 4.76 40-yd dash, 425 Bench Press Max, 670 Squat Max
WR Will Madison [WR #22]: 6'3", 185lbs | Stillwater, OK | 4-star | 4.50 40-yd dash, 265 Bench Press Max, 250 Squat Max
TE Matt Jordan [TE #8]: 6'6", 265lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star | 4.68 40-yd dash, 405 Bench Press Max, 265 Squat Max
OLB Kevin Harris [OLB #10]: 5'11", 180lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | 4.50 40-yd dash, 370 Bench Press Max, 595 Squat Max
ILB Justin Smith [ILB #7]: 6'2", 225lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | 4.62 40-yd dash, 405 Bench Press Max, 555 Squat Max
CB Ernest Bright [CB #5]: 6'2", 185lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | 4.36 40-yd dash, 325 Bench Press Max, 260 Squat Max
DT Dan James [DT #8]: 6'5", 280lbs | Monte Vista, CO | 4-star | 5.18 40-yd dash, 430 Bench Press Max, 620 Squat Max
T Tim Hill [T #7]: 6'5", 291lbs | Miami, FL | 4-star | 4.90 40-yd dash, 435 Bench Press Max, 630 Squat Max
DB Sean Hart [ATH #39]: 6'0", 185lbs | Northbrook, IL | 4-star | 4.38 40-yd dash, 235 Bench Press Max, 250 Squat Max
DE Alex Kelley [DE #20]: 6'3", 247lbs | Pecos, TX | 4-star | 4.70 40-yd dash, 405 Bench Press Max, 450 Squat Max
S Courtney Jones [S #7]: 6'3", 183lbs | Orlando, FL | 4-star | 4.46 40-yd dash, 345 Bench Press Max, 345 Squat Max
OLB Ryan Jones [OLB #19]: 6'5", 239lbs | Fairfax, VA | 4-star | 4.60 40-yd dash, 425 Bench Press Max, 670 Squat Max
2044 USF Recruiting Board
G Tim Williams [G #7]: 6'3", 290lbs | Robinson, PA [IMG] | 4-star | USF, Army, Minnesota
DB Michael Williams [ATH #20]: 6'0", 194lbs | Jonesboro, LA | 4-star | USF, Mississippi State, LSU
WR Mark Collier [ATH #31]: 6'0", 216lbs | Clute, TX | 4-star | Toledo, USF
WR Theo Smith [WR #43]: 6'0", 171lbs | Tampa, FL | 4-star | USF, Akron, Navy, Kansas, Rutgers
FB/TE/OL Brian Daniel [C #25]: 6'5", 288lbs | Lakeland, FL | 3-star | USF, Georgia Tech, Virginia Tech, Stanford, Middle Tennessee State
FB Gemara McDonald [TE #69]: 6'5", 277lbs | Conyers, GA | 3-star | Kansas State, Eastern Michigan, Georgia Tech, Minnesota, USF
The Bullpen: Rashad Woodard just 'scratching the surface' according to OC Jeremy Butler
Jonathan Bright -- BullsNation.com Football Reporter
Rashad Woodard might have introduced himself to the college football world at large with his performance last week, throwing for 421 yards and two touchdowns with countless big time throws in the fourth quarter but for USF offensive coordinator Jeremy Butler, none of it was surprising.
"He's that good," said Butler of Woodard's performance, "In terms of his production compared to his talent, he's only scratching the surface of what he can and I think will eventually do in this offense and beyond. He's got all of the talent in the world, he's just got to put it together."
USF fans can thank former offensive coordinator DeMarcus Bennett for last Saturday's win as Woodard was a late addition to the recruiting class three years ago when Bennett went out and got him, securing an arm for that class. Many wondered if Woodard would follow Bennett to UCF but he stayed put and with Bennett getting fired last offseason, it seemed to be the right move.
On the season, Woodard is averaging 200 yards passing and 92.9 yards rushing, which is especially impressive when you consider that he's only started and finished a handful of games due to injuries. If those are truly behind him and he continues this pace through the end of the season, he'll either have an early jump on the Heisman next year or put enough good tape out there to entice an NFL team to draft him in next spring's draft.
‣ WR Scott Price named semi-finalist for Biletnikoff after snub last season
Despite a few down games -- by his standard -- Scott Price was one of the 12 semi-finalists named for the Fred Biletnikoff Award, the same award he failed to make the finalist cut last season for despite catching 108 passes for 1,418 yards and twelve touchdowns.
Price's numbers are down this season, his lowest yards per game total in his career at 70 yards per game compared to 76.1 as a freshman and 109.1 last season. He'll need to turn up for the last stretch of the season to have a legitimate shot at winning that award as Texas A&M receiver Andy Matthews is already at 1,147 receiving yards, averaging 143.4 yards per game in Rhett Lashlee's offense, the same offense Price thrived under last season.
Former USF receiver Mike Thomas is also a semi-finalist, averaging 118.5 yards per game for Texas State. USF center Kyle Jones is a semi-finalist for the Rimington.
‣ DE Marcellus Smith still on the prowl for first sack of the season
USF senior defensive end Marcellus Smith won the Lombardi Award last season, recording 23 tackles for loss and nine sacks as a junior. This year, not only is Smith not a semi-finalist for that same award, he's yet to record his first sack of the year and has just three tackles for loss on the season and eleven sacks.
"He needs to get going," USF head coach Malcolm Francois Sr. said of Smith after the Minnesota game when asked about the lack of pass rush, "He's gotten there a few times but needs to finish the play and he knows that. He's a hard critic on himself so he's obviously dissapointed with how the season is going but when it comes, he'll come in a bunches and he'll get rolling."
Smith's brother, Brandon is also having a down year with just one sack and two tackles for loss after finishing last year with 14 tackles for loss and seven sacks. Both were projected to be top-60 picks in last year's draft had they declared early with the their triplet brother, Southern Miss' Brian Smith Jr. who is projected to be a top five pick.
Top 30 USF Players of Francois Era: No. 4 - Travis Hughes (2023-2025)
Charlie Flowers -- gousfbulls.com
Recruiting Profile: 1st ranked OLB in 2023 | 6'5", 211lbs | Miami, FL | 5-star
Career Stats: 355 tackles, 88 tackles for loss, 15 sacks, 11 interceptions, 2 touchdowns, 17 pass breakups, forced fumble, fumble recovery, safety.
Games Started: 37
Record as Starter: 31-6
Record vs. UCF: 3-0
Conference Championships: 2 (Big XII)
Bowl Record: 2-1
BCS Bowl Record: 2-1 (Sugar, National Championship)
National Championships: 1-0
Accolades: 2023 1st team All-Big XII, 2024 1st team All-Big XII, 2025 1st team All-Big XII, 2023 Freshman All-American, 2023 1st team All-American, 2024 1st team All-American, 2025 1st team All-American, 2023 Bednarik Award recipient (best defensive player), 2023 Nagurski Award recipient (best defensive player), 2023 Butkus Award recipient (best LB), 2025 Bednarik Award recipient (best defensive player), 2025 Nagurski Award recipient (best defensive player), 2025 Butkus Award recipient (best LB)
You knew while it was happening -- and for some, before -- that Hughes was going to be an all-time great. A rare combination of size, speed and football instincts, Hughes goes down as USF's greatest defensive player of all time and one of college football's best.
When asked, he could be the team's best run stuffer, best edge setter, best pass rusher and even moved to the perimeter against spread offenses. If not for an injury his sophomore season, Hughes could have been a three-time Bednarik, Butkus and Nagurski award winner but twice is plenty impressive.
His statline year by year:
Freshman: 131 tackles, 38 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 5 interceptions.
Sophomore: 106 tackles, 18 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, 2 interceptions.
Junior: 104 tackles, 32 tackles for loss, 6 sacks, 4 interceptions.
Nothing else needs to be said as to why he's the top defensive player in this list and why in the previous ranking fifteen years ago, he was #1.
