SOUTH FLORIDA CRUSHES NORTH TEXAS (63–36): A SHOW OF POWER IN DENTON
Updated: Oct 31
DENTON, Texas — No. 24 South Florida overcame a chaotic start to turn the night into a statement of power. Despite three turnovers in the first quarter, the Bulls roared back to crush North Texas 63–36, reaffirming their rise and physical dominance in the American Conference. With 582 total yards of offense, including 308 on the ground, and a defense that forced five turnovers, the Bulls delivered a true benchmark performance in their 2025 campaign.
A tense first half before the storm
In front of a sold-out DATCU Stadium for the first time in program history, North Texas capitalized early on South Florida’s mistakes to seize momentum.
Freshman quarterback Drew Mestemaker (30-of-48, 326 yards, 2 TD, 3 INT) led the Mean Green with poise, guiding his team to a 21–14 advantage after a daring and energetic opening quarter.
But the end of the second quarter marked a turning point. After a muffed punt by North Texas, Byrum Brown punished the error with a short touchdown pass to Jonathan Echols (2 yards) just before halftime, tying the score at 21–21. Moments into the second half, South Florida exploded for three touchdowns in just 3 minutes and 30 seconds: a trick-play pass from Christian Neptune (1-for-1, 29 yards, 1 TD) to Keshaun Singleton (3 catches, 54 yards, 1 TD), an interception leading to a quick drive, and finally, a fumble returned for a touchdown by Jhalyn Shuler (7 tackles, 1 interception, 1 defensive TD). In a flash, the score flipped from 21–14 North Texas to 42–21 South Florida, and the game was effectively over.
Byrum Brown, the do-it-all engine
Quarterback Byrum Brown once again showcased his full range of talent, orchestrating an offensive clinic. He completed 22 of 28 passes for 245 yards and 3 touchdowns, while also rushing 21 times for 82 yards and 2 more scores. Despite two early fumbles and an interception, he settled down and led a relentless offense that rolled up 582 total yards.
Around him, the supporting cast delivered at every level. Jeremiah Koger (4 receptions, 94 yards, 2 TDs) was his top target, stretching the defense all night. Chas Nimrod (45 yards, 1 TD) and Sam Franklin (51 yards, 1 TD) provided balance and explosiveness, while the offensive line dominated the trenches, paving the way for an average of 5.6 yards per carry. The Bulls were also efficient on key downs, converting 7 of 11 third downs and racking up 32 first downs in total.
A relentless Florida defense
While the offense caught fire, the defense ensured there would be no comeback. Led by linebacker Tavin Ward (14 tackles, 12 solo), South Florida shut down the ground game, holding North Texas to just 97 yards on 29 carries (3.3 avg). The defensive front, reinforced by SEC transfers Devin Lee and Josh Celiscar, was dominant in the trenches. Jacob Merrifield (3 tackles, 1 sack) added steady pressure on Mestemaker, who was picked off three times and forced into several hurried throws.
The Bulls struck at key moments, forcing five turnovers, three interceptions and two fumbles, marking their eighth takeaway in two games, a testament to their renewed defensive intensity.
North Texas overwhelmed by the Bulls’ power
The Mean Green fought bravely in the first half but couldn’t withstand South Florida’s physicality. Miles Coleman (7 receptions, 101 yards, 1 TD) and Wyatt Young (7 receptions, 79 yards) provided some spark through the air, but five turnovers and a fading rhythm after halftime proved fatal. North Texas, previously one of the most efficient offenses in the Group of Five, converted just 9 of 18 third downs as South Florida took full control of the game’s pace.
South Florida confirms its status as a Group of Five powerhouse
With this victory, South Florida (5–1, 2–0) continues its transformation into a true juggernaut. The Bulls have now scored 229 points over their last four games, averaging an astonishing 57.3 points per game, while pairing offensive explosiveness with newfound defensive consistency.
Head coach Alex Golesh’s vision is clearly taking shape: a deep roster, dominant line play, and a ruthless mentality on both sides of the ball. The next major test, No. 23 Memphis on October 25, could decide a spot in the American Championship Game. If South Florida maintains this level, a simple bowl appearance might no longer be the ceiling… this could be the start of a historic season in Tampa.
HIGHLIGHTS:
