Week two for the South Florida Bulls sees the Florida A&M Rattlers coming to Raymond James Stadium with the hopes of spoiling Alex Golesh earning his first win as the head coach at USF. Following a week one 41-24 loss at Western Kentucky, what does USF need to do on Saturday in order to head into a big week three game against Alabama with a 1-1 record?
Bulls fans were surprised last week when Byrum Brown earned the starting nod under center. But with Gerry Bohanon not yet 100%, giving Brown the keys to the offense was the right call. After the 17-point loss at WKU, the Bulls get set to host a Florida A&M team that took down Jackson State last week in Miami.
Keep Up The Tempo
Golesh and his quick-tempo offense displayed a solid showing against WKU for a goo portion of the game. I think turning the offense up one notch will put the Rattlers in uncomfortable situations on defense. Given, USF ran the ball well last week in the loss. While Brown led the team in rushing with 160 yards and two scores, Nay’Quan Wright showcased his dynamic ability with 111 yards on 17 attempts.
Forcing FAMU to buy into the run game and push the tempo will open the opportunity in the passing game for Brown and the receivers to expose a Rattlers defense that allowed 231 passing yards a week ago. Pushing the pace on Saturday could see the Bulls take ahold of this game early.
Protect Brown in the Pocket
USF’s pass protection certainly needs improvement. Last week, Brown was sacked five times. The offensive line must give Brown ample time in the pocket to go through his progressions against this FCS level defense. Not only up front, but the tailbacks must block as well to avoid miscues on offense when Brown is in passing situations.
Wide receivers must showcase more
USF’s receivers failed to show a lot last Saturday. Going into game two, the strategy must change. Getting guys like Sean Atkins and Naiem Simmons more targets will stretch the defense and open up long play opportunites. Khafre Brown played a solid game as WR1, and I fully expect that to be the case again this week.
Pass rush has to be a factor
Florida A&M quarterback Jeremy Moussa has dual-threat capabilities. The Bulls’ defensive front has to pressure Moussa in the pocket and force him into unwanted pass attempts or running outside of the pocket. In doing so, the Bulls can potentially get creative and showcase different schemes at Florida A&M that could force turnovers.
Control the Clock
USF has to be in control of the clock to leave Ray Jay with a win against FAMU. Calling early timeouts can’t happen and winning the time of possession battle will force Florida A&M to switch up their game plan. The longer the Bulls have the ball, the longer Brown and the offense can torch this defense.