USF vs. Delaware State 2026 Recap: 5 Takeaways from Bulls Dominant 59-17 Win

Just like that, Week 3 of the 2026 college football season has already come and gone. And with it, the USF Bulls defeated the Delaware State Hornets 59-17 in their latest contest.

USF vs. Delaware State 2026 Recap: 5 Takeaways from Week 3

In Tampa, a stormy afternoon held fans in traffic surrounding the stadium until the shelter in place was lifted, and all parking lots were re-opened about an hour and a half prior to the games’ original time of 7:00 p.m. South Florida’s matchup against Delaware State only ended up having only a slight delay due to the severe weather, kicking off instead at 7:27 p.m. but nonetheless, the Bulls still came out on top with a dominant 59-17 win.

Each half of this game however, tells a different story. During the first half, the Bulls offense had some good flashes but the defense struggled to halt big plays, including giving up a 90-yard touchdown via the Hornets’ Nathan Stewart. With seconds winding down, QB Luke Kromenhoek gets the touchdown for the Bulls to make South Florida’s lead 28-17 going into halftime.

It was pretty much all South Florida from there.

Explosive opening drive

We saw a very similar opening drive in Week 2 against Army and it certainly worked both times. Four plays later the Bulls marched 72 yards down the field with three passes to Wyatt Sullivan, Bryson Rodgers and Josh Porter. Then, Kromenhoek came in for the snap, handing it off to D.J. Crowther who was in for the score.

Starting fast, it was a seamless opening drive that put points on the board just over a minute into the game. Is this something that South Florida will continue to aim and go for? Maybe. It’s certainly worked out well for them so far.

Depth on the roster

As a result of this game being a high scoring affair, the depth of the entire roster was very evident. USF returners WR Mudia Reuben and RB Alvon Issac both took their first snaps of the season. Tight end Evan Dangler, and UTEP transfer Kenny Odom also took some snaps. Redshirt freshman running back Chase Garnett had one carry for 45 yards that resulted in a touchdown.

Withs several starters out due to injury including RT Michael Wooten, DE C.J. Hicks, and LB Grayson “Pup” Howard, the depth among the trenches and the defense was displayed even more.

Running game set the tone

Above all, the rushing attack really set the tone for this game. The Bulls had seven rushing touchdowns, the second-most all-time to eight in South Florida’s first game in program history. Two of those rushing TD’s were from QB Luke Kromenhoek. Throughout the night, the Bulls played five of their running backs, showcasing reasons why their backfield should not be taken lightly.

D.J. Crowther is very good

Speaking of running backs, D.J. Crowther proved that he is a force to reckoned with and it will be very hard to take him down. Consistently dodging and shaking off defenders, Crowther had a standout night with eight carries for 101 yards and three touchdowns. That marks his fourth career 100-yard game. He can be dangerous for the Bulls this season.

Both QB 1 & 2 will be utilized

Head coach Brian Hartline has been transparent in stating that he will need to use both quarterbacks Michael Van Buren Jr. and Luke Kromenhoek. As Van Buren has the starting role and is excelling, It seems as Kromenhoek will also get a few snaps rather regularly and all in all, they are both helping each other.

Looking forward

With this win, South Florida improves to 3-0 for the first time since the 2018 season.

The Bulls will travel back up north next week for their matchup against Bowling Green.