USF Seizes Control of AAC with Commanding Win Over Tulane

The Game

In a season-defining showdown, USF took a major step toward securing their place in the AAC Championship by defeating Tulane 38-14. With this win, USF improved to 9-1 overall and 6-0 in AAC play, positioning themselves at the top of the conference standings and putting them in the driver’s seat for their first championship game appearance under Coach Dr. Bryan. For Tulane, the loss drops them to 7-4 overall and 5-1 in the conference, effectively shifting the momentum toward USF as they aim to finish strong in the AAC race.

The game started off evenly, with both teams locked in at 7-7 by the end of the first quarter. Tulane’s defense held strong early, but USF’s relentless pace soon wore them down. By the second quarter, USF began to pull away, capitalizing on Tulane’s mistakes and turnovers. After a pivotal interception by Tulane’s Zeon Chriss, USF seized control and extended their lead to 28-14 by halftime. Heisman hopeful JeyQuan Smith showcased his talents with an impressive 3-catch, 85-yard performance, including a highlight-reel touchdown grab, further solidifying his bid for college football’s top honor.

“Today’s win was huge for us and for what we’re building here,” Coach Bryan said after the game. “I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: USF can and will be the premier program in the state of Florida. We’re putting in the work, and these players are proving every week that they’re ready to bring something special to this program.”

Coming out of halftime, Tulane attempted an onside kick, hoping to reclaim momentum, but USF was prepared. After recovering the kick, USF focused on clock management, holding possession for nearly five minutes to open the third quarter. It was a strategic move that set the tone for the remainder of the game, as USF controlled the ball, limiting Tulane’s chances to get back in it.

Quarterback Byrum Brown was efficient and composed, completing 12 of 13 passes for 197 yards and 2 touchdowns. Reflecting on the game, Brown commented, “This win was big, no doubt. But we know we’ve still got work to do. There’s no rest until we’ve secured our spot in the AAC Championship, and we’re focused on finishing strong.”

Running backs Eric McCareins and Oliver James combined for three touchdowns on the ground, while McCareins added another score on a reception, emphasizing USF’s balanced offensive approach. Smith, a key player in USF’s offense, kept the pressure on Tulane’s defense throughout the game, reminding everyone why he’s in the Heisman conversation.

For Tulane, freshman Dalton Latimer showed flashes of promise, adding 47 rushing yards and both of Tulane’s touchdowns, but turnovers ultimately hurt their chances. Chriss’s second interception—a deep throw into the end zone in the second half—sealed the game for USF. Senior Shazz Preston’s reliable hands added 47 yards on five catches, but Tulane’s offense couldn’t overcome their early mistakes.

Reflecting on the impact of the win for the program, Coach Bryan reiterated his confidence in his team’s potential. “This is the kind of win that puts us on the map. We’re not just here to compete; we’re here to take over. With every game, we’re proving that USF can be the top program in Florida.”

What's Next

With two games remaining against UAB and Army, USF is now fully in control of their destiny in the AAC. A win in either of these final matchups would secure their place in the championship, marking a milestone achievement for Coach Bryan and his team. As Brown emphasized, “It’s all about focus. We’ve got two more games, and then, if we handle our business, the championship game. We’ve worked hard to get here, and now it’s time to finish strong.”

This victory was more than just a win—it was a statement of intent from a team transitioning from contender to clear favorite, one determined to make history.

Around the Country

Outside of the USF vs. Tulane showdown, Week 11 delivered plenty of action across the board. South Alabama dominated defensively, shutting out San Diego State 29-0, while Troy continued their unbeaten streak with a commanding 48-7 victory over Jacksonville State. Coastal Carolina showcased their offensive firepower in a 66-24 win over Georgia Southern, and UNT cruised past Rice with a dominant 63-0 shutout.

Nevada edged out Fresno State in a nail-biter, winning 37-35, while UNLV and Arkansas State both exploded for 70 points in identical 70-38 wins over Boise State and UConn, respectively. Wyoming put on an offensive clinic with an 83-28 victory over Hawai’i, and Texas State fell to Louisiana Tech, 52-20, in a tough matchup that ended their bowl game hopes.

Tickets Punched

A huge congratulations goes out to Troy for securing their spot in the C-USA Championship game in their very first season in the league. With their 48-7 win over Jacksonville State, Troy continued their unbeaten streak and proved that they’re a force to be reckoned with in Conference USA. Their journey to the championship game is a testament to the team’s hard work and resilience as they’ve dominated throughout the season.

Looking Ahead

Week 12 is packed with games that could shape the final stretch of the season, as teams battle for their chance to secure spots in conference championships and position themselves in the standings. Arkansas State has a golden opportunity to secure their place in the Sun Belt Championship with a win over Southern Miss, a game that could seal their season’s hard work and consistency. Coastal Carolina, meanwhile, faces off against App State, looking to officially lock in their championship spot after an impressive run this year.

In the Mountain West, a three-way tie for first place has added even more weight to this week’s games. UNLV and South Alabama will fight to stay on top of the standings, with UNLV taking on New Mexico and South Alabama facing Colorado State. Both teams are looking to break the tie and edge closer to a Mountain West title.

Texas State will take on Kennesaw State, and a win could be significant for their C-USA standings. If the Bobcats get the breaks they need elsewhere, they could find themselves with a chance to secure a spot in the C-USA Championship, a thrilling potential turnaround for their season.

Other Week 12 games include Wyoming against San Diego State, a key matchup as Wyoming continues to make noise in the Mountain West. Coastal Carolina will take on App State, while Nevada faces Utah State, ECU goes against Memphis, and USF takes on UAB as they look to further secure their position at the top of the AAC.

As Week 12 unfolds, every game carries high stakes and the potential for season-defining outcomes.