In a record-setting performance, the South Florida Bulls (6-5) earned their 12th bowl appearance in just 24 seasons of FBS play, overwhelming Tulsa (3-8) with a 63-30 victory on Senior Day at Raymond James Stadium. Head coach Alex Golesh’s squad continues to build momentum, securing back-to-back bowl appearances for the first time since 2017-18. This feat places USF fourth among programs with the most bowl appearances in their first 24 FBS seasons since 1980.
USF wasted no time asserting its dominance, racing out to a 28-0 first-quarter lead before Tulsa managed a single first down. The Bulls carried a commanding 42-7 lead into halftime, fueled by 454 yards of first-half offense. Averaging eight yards per play and logging 10 explosive plays, the Bulls set their most prolific first-half mark since 2016, when they routed No. 22 Navy.
The Bulls finished with 715 yards of offense, the second-highest total in program history and the most against an FBS opponent. Their 63 points marked the program’s best since a 2015 thrashing of Cincinnati (65-27). USF also achieved back-to-back 50-point games for the first time since 2011, showcasing the offensive firepower that has defined Alex Golesh’s second season at the helm.
Kelley Joiner The senior running backcontinued his late-season surge, rushing for 133 yards and two touchdowns on just 10 carries. He averaged an astounding 13.1 yards per attempt, including a 48-yard touchdown run. This followed a career-best 140-yard performance last week, cementing his role as a key offensive weapon.
Bryce Archie The sophomore quarterback delivered a career-best 305 passing yards and two touchdowns while adding 40 rushing yards and a score. Archie’s steady leadership has propelled USF to a 4-2 record in his six starts this season.
USF’s sixth game of 200+ rushing yards this season—four of which surpassed 300 yards—underlines their dominance on the ground. The 715 total yards rank as a milestone for the program, showcasing their balanced attack and relentless pace.
The Bulls conclude the regular season next Saturday with a historic road trip to face Rice at Rice Stadium in Houston. The 2:00 p.m. ET kickoff will mark the first-ever meeting between the two programs at the iconic venue. With a bowl berth secured, USF looks to finish the regular season strong and build momentum heading into postseason play.
This resounding victory not only celebrates the seniors who have contributed to the program’s resurgence but also highlights the bright future under Alex Golesh. USF’s explosive offense and disciplined execution position them as a dangerous opponent heading into bowl season.
