Porter's Playbook | The Coaching Career of DJ Porter

Post by **djp73** » 12 Dec 2025, 21:55

Soapy wrote: ↑
12 Dec 2025, 09:08
I don't recognize any of these names

These are the players I still have from the RL 2025 squad:
QB Hewlett who completed one pass in IRL 2025
DB turned LB Jermaine Dalias
DT Jahari Grant
CB Gavin Jenkins
DE Ira Singleton
P Luke Goater

Post by **djp73** » 12 Dec 2025, 21:56

redsox907 wrote: ↑
12 Dec 2025, 13:37
over half your roster is linemen

Captain Canada wrote: ↑
12 Dec 2025, 18:58
Jesus Christ, you have a lot of linemen.

it starts in the trenches?

Post by **djp73** » 12 Dec 2025, 21:57

toysoldier00 wrote: ↑
12 Dec 2025, 08:46
Let us know how you feel about changing your transfer portal strategy over the next year or two. It doesn’t feel like the transfer portal in game is super clean, but I don’t think there are obvious house rules to out in place to fix it. Also probably needs to be tweaked further based on what level your program is. Anyways, curious to get your thoughts.

as i get more of my own guys in i will have some house rule about not encouraging them to transfer i guess? but the portal is a reality we're going to have to deal with and use to our advantage, especially in Florida, man

Post by **djp73** » 12 Dec 2025, 21:59

2028 AMERICAN CONFERENCE FOOTBALL TEAM PREVIEW SERIES

SOUTH FLORIDA BULLS

NATIONAL RANK: 26 | AMERICAN CONFERENCE PREDICTION: 1st | 2027 RECORD: 12-2 (8-1, 1st in American)

Head Coach: DJ Porter, 2nd Season
Offensive Coordinator: DJ Porter, 2nd Season
Defensive Coordinator: Tony White, 2nd Season

After a few seasons of hovering on the outside looking in, DJ Porter and South Florida didn’t knock on the door of the American Conference in 2027, they kicked it in. The Bulls announced themselves with a statement season, pairing a high-powered offense with a defense that consistently improved and at times overwhelmed opponents, finishing atop the conference standings and putting the league on notice.

Now comes the harder part: sustaining success. While USF avoided a mass exodus in the offseason, several of the departures loom large, particularly on the offensive side of the ball. Replacing production, reshuffling roles, and navigating depth concerns will define whether 2028 becomes a continuation of the rise, or a reminder of how thin the margins are at the top.

OFFENSE

The offense remains the engine of this team, but it enters 2028 with real questions after losing its most productive weapon.

Locklan Hewlett returns as the unquestioned starter after another strong season at the controls. His command of the offense, accuracy, and decision-making remain the foundation of USF’s attack. Behind him, however, the depth chart thins quickly. Joshua Brantley is expected to serve as the primary backup, while Damarious Friend and Branden Duff continue to develop. With TJ Stanley and Trey Chancellor transferring out, USF will be hoping for good health at the position as an injury to Hewlett would significantly change the season’s outlook.

The Bulls leaned heavily on a committee approach in 2027, and there’s little reason to believe that will change. George Shembo and Steven Snead both eclipsed 500 yards last season, while Nicholas Daniel and Connor Suggs added valuable depth and change-of-pace production. That balance helped keep legs fresh late in games. Unless one back separates himself, expect USF to continue rotating bodies. Elton York remains a key special teams contributor, while the younger backs face an uphill climb to crack the rotation.

This is the most obvious concern on the roster. Tyler Williams’ departure leaves behind an NFL-sized void after a dominant 2027 campaign. Jordyn Bridgewater steps into the WR1 role after a solid year as the secondary option, but proven production behind him is scarce. Dawann Troup’s unexpected exit further complicated matters, and portal options failed to materialize. The staff will need major spring and summer development from Jeremiah Stoneburner and Lyle Dragos, while freshmen Josh Barr and Dakota Smith represent long-term upside rather than immediate solutions. How quickly this group comes together may ultimately define USF’s ceiling.

With receiver depth thinned, the tight end room becomes more important. Kyrie Michaels led the group last season after converting from wide receiver, and USF will look for him to take another step forward. Turner McLaughlin continues to serve more as a hybrid fullback, while JUCO transfer Sergio Isaac is one of the most intriguing spring storylines. Expect more multi-tight end sets as the Bulls look to manufacture mismatches and ease pressure on the wideouts.

Despite returning four starters, the offensive line remains very much under evaluation. Connor Doyle’s graduation leaves a key hole, and Florida State transfer Sam Iupati is expected to get the first crack at filling it. The staff has made it clear that no job is guaranteed, especially after the run game showed signs of wear late last season. With sheer numbers on their side, USF has options, now it’s about finding the right combination.

DEFENSE

If the offense carried USF early in 2027, the defense finished it.

This group overachieved a year ago, and while DiNelson Exume’s departure stings, optimism remains high. Ira Singleton emerged as a disruptive force with 10.5 sacks and is expected to move around more in 2028. The arrival of former Miami Hurricane Kevin Wynn has the coaching staff buzzing. At 349 pounds, he brings immediate power and presence to the interior. Jahari Grant is expected to play a major role, while several others will compete for snaps in the Bulls’ 3-3-5 base look.

Depth was an issue last season, and it showed. Eric Rance posted 100 tackles and 16 tackles for loss but was often asked to stretch beyond his natural role. Improvement from Jermaine Dalias and Derrick McCormick is critical, and while the freshman class adds bodies, meaningful contributions from newcomers may take time. This unit doesn’t need stars it needs consistency.

After Izaiah Guy’s graduation, USF responded by adding experience. David Igbinoghene and Gavin Jenkins return after solid seasons, while portal additions Cameron Keys and Vernon Woodward III bring maturity and versatility. This is one of the deeper groups on the roster, giving the staff flexibility week to week.

With Cedrick Hawkins and Guy gone, the safety room was rebuilt aggressively. Nick Jones returns after starting all 14 games as a true freshman, while transfers Tracy Bennett and Jathan Hatch add stability. Combined with Sidney James and George Tull, the Bulls now have multiple viable combinations depending on opponent and scheme.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Special teams enter a transitional year.

At kicker, the graduation of Nico Gramatica leaves USF with only true freshman Dom Bragg on the roster. While Gramatica’s percentages were inconsistent, his clutch reliability will be missed. Both Dorian McSurdy and Luke Goater have experience with place-kicking duties and may be given opportunities during spring practice.

At punter, McSurdy returns after a quietly effective season, handling kickoffs well and delivering when called upon. Goater provides depth and competition, giving USF stability at the position.

SEASON OUTLOOK

The Bulls proved in 2027 that they belong among the American Conference’s elite. The path forward is clear but narrow.

If USF can figure out how to replace Tyler Williams’ massive production and stay healthy at quarterback, there’s no reason they shouldn’t remain firmly in the mix for an American Conference championship and possibly even a playoff spot. The defense is deep, the coaching staff is proven, and the culture under DJ Porter is firmly established.

2028 won’t be about sneaking up on anyone.

It’ll be about proving last season was only the beginning.

2027 SCHEDULE AND RESULTS | 12-2, 1st in American
Sat, Aug 28 – at Northern Illinois – W 49-21
Sat, Sep 4 – vs Louisville – W 17-14
Sat, Sep 11 – at Boise State – L 7-14
Sat, Sep 18 – vs Florida A&M – W 41-20
Sat, Oct 2 – at Charlotte – W 28-21
Sat, Oct 9 – vs East Carolina – W 45-17
Sat, Oct 23 – at Florida Atlantic – W 49-20
Sat, Oct 30 – at Rice – W 35-33
Sat, Nov 6 – vs North Texas – L 28-31
Sat, Nov 13 – vs Navy – W 26-7
Sat, Nov 20 – vs UTSA – W 44-12
Sat, Nov 27 – vs Army – W 16-7
Sat, Dec 11 – vs Tulane – W 27-24 (American Conference Championship)
Mon, Dec 20 – vs Southern Miss – W 31-24 (Myrtle Beach Bowl)

2028 SCHEDULE
Sat, Aug 26 - vs Southern Miss
Sat, Sep 2 - vs UConn
Sat, Sep 9 - at Miami
Sat, Sep 16 - vs UCF
Sat, Sep 23 - vs Tulane
Sat, Oct 7 - at UTSA
Sat, Oct 14 - at North Texas
Sat, Oct 21 - vs Tulsa
Sat, Oct 28 - at Charlotte
Sat, Nov 4 - vs Rice
Sat, Nov 11 - vs Memphis
Sat, Nov 18 - at East Carolina

TOP 10 HIGH SCHOOL RECRUITS
(Per On3)
1. WR Dakota Smith – ★★★ – #468 NATL, #80 STATE, #60 POS – 6'1" 177 – HS – Tampa, FL
2. SS Immanuel Kush – ★★★ – #494 NATL, #10 STATE, #65 POS – 6'0" 201 – HS – Tampa, FL
3. DT Jacques Doubs – ★★★ – #547 NATL, #32 STATE, #34 POS – 6'5" 301 – HS – Cartersville, GA
4. DT Tyrone Peppers – ★★★ – #584 NATL, #34 STATE, #8 POS – 6'3" 304 – HS – Saint Louis, MO
5. MIKE Mohammad Efaw – ★★★ – #631 NATL, #32 STATE, #27 POS – 5'11" 226 – HS – Cleveland, OH
6. RG Tyler Tuten – ★★★ – #643 NATL, #48 STATE, #81 POS – 6'1" 307 – HS – Vero Beach, FL
7. SAM Peter Traore – ★★★ – #719 NATL, #56 STATE, #87 POS – 6'3" 230 – HS – Dunnellon, FL
8. DT Jahzir Sowells – ★★★ – #816 NATL, #44 STATE, #61 POS – 6'4" 290 – HS – Carrollton, GA
9. K Dom Bragg – ★★★ – #922 NATL, #7 STATE, #105 POS – 5'11" 166 – HS – Ocala, FL
10. MIKE Lonnie Terrell – ★★★ – #938 NATL, #54 STATE, #108 POS – 6'3" 221 – HS – Port Saint Lucie, FL

SCOUTING THE BULLS
“From the outside, they’re the kind of team that makes you uncomfortable because there’s no obvious weakness to attack,” an opposing coach said. “Porter’s got them playing fast and confident, they adapt on the fly and attack what they think you can't stop. On defense, they’re multiple, physical, and they don’t bust as many assignments as you'd expect from a young team int a new system. Offensively, everything runs through the quarterback and the run game, and they’re patient enough to keep leaning on you until something breaks. Losing Williams hurts them, no question, but if they find even average production there, this is still a roster built to win the league. They believe they belong now, and that’s dangerous.”
-Anonymous American Conference Coordinator-

Post by **Soapy** » 13 Dec 2025, 06:36

word of advice, you have to 'force' some freshman to start or at least be part of the two deep imo, they'll never play their first few years otherwise

Post by **djp73** » 13 Dec 2025, 08:42

Soapy wrote: ↑
13 Dec 2025, 06:36
word of advice, you have to 'force' some freshman to start or at least be part of the two deep imo, they'll never play their first few years otherwise

the two deep there is a guesstimate by the people writing the preview in march, my actual depth chart will be released after spring and fall camp

Post by **The JZA** » 13 Dec 2025, 10:37

Look like USF is set up for a run heavy season with those issues on the wings of the offense. Who do you see having a breakout alongside Jordyn Bridgewater?

Post by **djp73** » 13 Dec 2025, 14:09

The JZA wrote: ↑
13 Dec 2025, 10:37
Look like USF is set up for a run heavy season with those issues on the wings of the offense. Who do you see having a breakout alongside Jordyn Bridgewater?

the answer that is currently in the mixing bowl

Post by **djp73** » 13 Dec 2025, 19:25

USF FOOTBALL NEWS

SPRING FOOTBALL SERIES

Spring practice has offered an early glimpse into how South Florida plans to evolve offensively after kicking in the door of the American Conference in 2027. With expectations rising and roster turnover concentrated at a few key positions, the Bulls have leaned heavily on development, competition, and internal growth rather than wholesale change. The early returns suggest an offense that may look different in spots, but one that is steadily taking shape.

Everything still starts at quarterback, where Locklan Hewlett has looked every bit like a returning conference star. Hewlett’s improvement has been most noticeable in his accuracy at all three levels of the field. Short throws are coming out cleaner, intermediate routes are being hit in rhythm, and his deep ball has shown better touch and placement than it did a season ago. More than anything, Hewlett looks comfortable commanding the offense, setting protections, manipulating defenders with his eyes, and playing with the confidence of a quarterback who knows the system belongs to him.

Behind him, Joshua Brantley has quietly had a strong spring. Brantley looks far more at ease in the offense, operating with better tempo and decisiveness, and he appears to have separated himself as the clear favorite to back up Hewlett. That development matters for a USF team that knows the margin for error at quarterback gets thin quickly. Damarious Friend continues to flash elite arm strength, and that arm looks even stronger this spring, particularly on boundary throws. Branden Duff, meanwhile, has impressed with his mobility and quickness, looking nimble in the pocket and capable of extending plays. While Hewlett remains the unquestioned starter, the room as a whole feels cohesive despite the departure of Stanley and Chancellor.

At running back, the biggest spring surprise has been Connor Suggs. Already one of the most explosive backs on the roster, Suggs looks faster, more decisive, and noticeably shiftier. After rushing for 284 yards on just 45 carries last season, he has the look of a potential breakout candidate if the staff is searching for one. George Shembo and Steven Snead remain the foundation of the room after leading the team in rushing in 2027, but Suggs’ emergence gives USF a dynamic change-of-pace option who can stress defenses in space. Nicholas Daniel has also stood out physically, looking stronger and more capable of handling contact, reinforcing the idea that the Bulls will again lean on a committee approach unless someone forces their hand.

Wide receiver is where the offense feels the most transitional. The departure of Tyler Williams to the NFL, Daidren Zipperer through graduation, and Dawann Troup via the portal leaves behind a massive production void that totals 2,870 receiving yards and 17 touchdowns to be exact. Jordyn Bridgewater entered the spring as the presumed number one target after a 58 catch, 596 yard, eight touchdown season in 2027, and nothing he’s shown has changed that perception. The bigger question is who emerges behind him.

Jeremiah Stoneburner has looked like the clubhouse leader for the number two role. At 6'5” and over 200 pounds, his size alone presents matchup problems, and he has paired that with improved hands and a better grasp of the offense. Gerald Camarda, now a redshirt freshman, has also popped during spring sessions. While his hands remain a work in progress, he’s dangerous once the ball is in his hands and brings a different kind of explosiveness to the group. Kyrie Michaels’ return to wide receiver after a season at tight end adds a reliable possession option. He lacks the top-end speed of some of the others, but his physicality and strong hands make him a natural red-zone target. Lyle Dragos continues to flash elite speed, though he still needs polish, while true freshmen Dakota Smith and Josh Barr have shown enough to intrigue, even if they remain works in progress.

With Michaels moving back outside, tight end becomes one of the least experienced groups on the roster. Henry Gregory returns as the only tight end with a catch last season, while Turner McLaughlin brings experience as a fullback/TE hybrid last season after a 27-catch campaign in 2026. Dalton Sahara, another former wide receiver, looks like the most natural receiving threat of the group and could be leaned on heavily as the Bulls adjust their formations to compensate for losses at wideout.

Up front, the offensive line has undergone quiet but important change. The departure of Connor Doyle left a leadership and talent void, but Florida State transfer Sam Iupati has looked the part at left tackle so far. TJ Lawrence appears firmly entrenched at left guard, but beyond that, competition is everywhere. At center, Teriyan Morman and Oliver Ellefson represent a study in contrasts. Morman, listed at 357 pounds, wins with brute strength and mass, overpowering defenders at the point of attack, though he can struggle when asked to pull or block in space. Ellefson, significantly lighter at 283 pounds, brings more mobility and finesse but has had difficulty generating push against elite interior defenders like Kevin Wynn and Jahari Grant. Morman missed all but the first four games of the season in 2027 with a broken foot, he looks to be 100%.

On the right side, Adam Forbes is trying to hold off a serious challenge from Chester Knapp at guard. Forbes has the size and experience advantage, while Knapp’s offseason improvement has made this one of the more competitive battles on the line. At right tackle, Clint Kendricks and Tyreek Major offer different strengths. Kendricks has been slightly better against speed rushers and in the run game, while Major has held up better against power, making this a matchup-dependent decision that may not be settled until fall.

Taken together, USF’s offense is clearly in a transitional phase, but not one lacking direction. The quarterback room is stable, the backfield is deep, and the offensive line has answers, even if the solutions are still being sorted out. The biggest unknown remains how the Bulls replace the production lost at wide receiver, but spring has shown that options exist. How quickly those pieces come together may ultimately determine just how high this offense can climb in 2028.

Post by **djp73** » 13 Dec 2025, 20:16

USF FOOTBALL NEWS

SPRING FOOTBALL SERIES

After witnessing more of spring practice, it’s becoming increasingly clear that South Florida’s defensive identity is evolving just as rapidly as its offense and in some ways, even more dramatically. Under Tony White, the Bulls continue to lean into versatility, physicality, and disruption, and this spring has offered a preview of a defense that may once again be among the most difficult units to deal with in the American Conference.

The conversation has to begin up front, where Miami transfer Kevin Wynn has been the defining presence of spring practice. At roughly 350 pounds, Wynn’s size and strength are immediately obvious, but what has truly stood out is how well he diagnoses plays. He has been flat-out unblockable at times, commanding double teams and still finding ways into the backfield. His combination of mass, power, and football intelligence makes it hard to overstate his impact, and it does not feel like a stretch to say Wynn has the potential to be one of the best players in the conference, if not nationally, once the season arrives.

Around him, the rest of the defensive line is beginning to take shape. Jahari Grant looks quicker and stronger than he did a season ago, giving the Bulls a formidable interior pairing next to Wynn. The battle for the third starting spot has been one of the most competitive position fights on the defense, with Dom Nickey and Marlon Doyle trading reps. Doyle moves exceptionally well in space and has shown the ability to chase plays down from behind, while Nickey plays with more raw power and has been effective using bull rushes to collapse the pocket. Both bring different skill sets, and which one ultimately starts may depend on opponent and situation.

Ira Singleton’s transition into Tony White’s “JACK” role has been one of the most intriguing storylines of the spring. The hybrid edge rusher/coverage backer position demands a unique blend of pass rush and coverage ability, and Singleton looks far more comfortable when he’s allowed to play downhill as a traditional edge rusher. In coverage, he can look uneasy at times, but the staff remains confident that with more reps through spring and fall camp, he can grow into the role. Freshman Peter Traore has also seen time at JACK and presents an interesting contrast. Traore has been impressive in coverage, regularly getting his hands on passes, but he can be overwhelmed as a pass rusher. In many ways, he’s the inverse of Singleton, giving the staff two very different tools to work with.

At linebacker, Eric Rance returns as the anchor at MIKE, with Frank Droege serving as a reliable depth option. With increased depth around him, Rance may be used more situationally this season, particularly on passing downs where coverage has not always been his strength. Jermaine Dalias, who made the move from defensive back to linebacker last spring, looks far more comfortable in his role and is expected to handle the bulk of the snaps next to Rance. Derrick McCormick has shown improved quickness and should be a key rotational piece, especially against the run, where his tackling reliability stands out. Freshman Mohammad Efaw has flashed early and appears capable of earning snaps as the season progresses, while fellow freshman Keon Brents has turned heads with how fast he plays. Brents moves like a safety in coverage and could carve out a niche sooner rather than later.

The secondary has undergone one of the most noticeable transformations following the departures of Izaiah Guy and Cedrick Hawkins. The Bulls attacked the portal aggressively, bringing in Cameron Keys, Vernon Woodward III, Jathan Hatch, and Tracy Bennett, and the early results have been encouraging. David Igbinoghene has been used primarily as a deep safety this spring, and his ability to close on throws has been nothing short of eye-opening. He covers ground effortlessly and has the range to erase potential big plays before they fully develop.

At corner, Gavin Jenkins looks determined to hold onto his starting role, showing sharper technique and consistency across the board. Opposite him, Keys and Woodward III have rotated heavily. Keys has flashed shutdown-corner potential, though occasional assignment confusion has popped up, while Woodward has been at his best in press coverage, challenging receivers at the line regardless of size. Behind them, underclassmen Devin Nowell and Matt Ansah have both taken noticeable steps forward and appear capable of filling in if injuries arise.

Safety play has also been a strength. Nick Jones, who started all 14 games as a freshman last season, has added bulk and has taken the majority of reps at “ROVER”. He’s been decisive, quick to diagnose plays, and consistently involved in run support. Transfers Tracy Bennett and Jathan Hatch have both carved out roles as well. Bennett has primarily worked as a deep safety, impressing with his grasp of the system and a relentless motor when chasing plays. Hatch has split time between rover and deep safety; while he doesn’t quite have Igbinoghene’s elite burst, he’s still plenty fast and brings versatility to the rotation.

All told, USF’s defense looks deeper, more flexible, and more disruptive than it did a year ago. With a dominant presence like Kevin Wynn anchoring the front and an influx of experienced talent reshaping the secondary, the Bulls appear poised to once again field a defense capable of dictating terms, one that can both overwhelm opponents physically and adapt schematically as the season unfolds.

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