USF vs. SC State 2025 Recap: Bulls Dominate Bulldogs in Week 4, 63-14

The South Florida Bulls started the 2025 on a historic run. While their crushing Week 3 defeat in Miami was one that could have halted them, it gave them the motivation to do the opposite. In Week 4, USF dismantled SC State with a 63-14 victory at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. If the Bulls wanted to make a statement, they certainly did just that. With that said, let’s recap this USF vs. SC State 2025 showdown.

USF vs. SC State 2025 Recap: Bulls Dominate Bulldogs in Week 4

A Record-setting Game

For an offensive unit that struggled to produce any momentum last week, USF was able to find their footing consistently throughout this contest in more ways than one. And while the time of possession favors SC State by nearly 30 minutes, USF was still able to outscore by 49 points. The Bulls also set a new record of scoring 35 points in a single quarter.

And when SC State marched down the field fairly quickly through the first drive of the game, the momentum quickly shifted with a 93-yard Mac Harris pick-six. Later on, Harris also forced a fumble on a sack and tallied a career-high two sacks.

Josh Porter and Nykahi Davenport secured their first career touchdowns, as did as Sam Franklin who scored his first touchdown as a USF Bull and brought it to the end zone a second time. Chas Nimrod marked a career-best two touchdowns and tight end Jonathan Echols also made it to the end zone, scoring the second touchdown of his career.

In the third quarter, safety Jaelen Stokes came up with a massive punt block that was scooped up and scored by Ashton Mosley. That play was the first punt block returned for a touchdown since the 2011 season.

A Full Team Effort

The defense was precise bringing power and agility while consistently pressuring the quarterback and forcing incompletions. Any SC State player who had the ball was immediately swarmed, and USF kept any production from the Bulldogs offense at a minimum. The secondary also maintained control down field, keeping SC State’s dynamic wide receiver Jalen Johnson at bay.

Linebackers Mac Harris and Jhalyn Shuler consistently made it through the line to force quarterback Ryan Stubblefield to scramble out of the pocket. The duo did the same when quarterback William Atkins came into play. Jarvis Lee also picked up a quarterback hurry himself and Jonas Duclona was reliable downhill as he broke up multiple pass attempts.

The offense moved quickly but efficiently, as the running back core found their footing early on and the wide receiver group was explosive. Alvon Issac was a key weapon carrying the ball as well as on punt return. He’s a versatile runner with the speed and ability to beat defenders. Chas Nimrod has an innate ability when it comes to being able to make impressive catches, and his connection with Byrum Brown was thriving once again.

All in all, it felt like every Bulls’ player made their presence felt throughout this game and contributed to key plays that changed the tone and ensured their dominance on all three sides of the ball.

Draft Prospects

Mac Harris LB, USF: After today’s really impressive game, Harris has continued to show improvement and talent each week, constantly raising the bar. He also plays a pivotal role on this Bulls’ football team as he is a known and respected leader both on and off the field.

Chas Nimrod WR, USF: Nimrod runs defined routes, out-runs defenders, and make impressive, sometimes even diving catches both outside and in the slot.

Jalen Johnson WR, SC State: Johnson consistently showed great ability in his route-running, and proved to be a reliable go-to target for his quarterback.

KZ Adams RB, SC State: Adams displayed great power on the run and larger potential to be even more effective in both the pass and rush games.

What’s Next for USF?

This win gave USF the bounce-back momentum shift they needed. The Bulls will begin their bye week as they prepare to start conference play against Charlotte on October 3.