We're Getting Closer...USF 24, WKU 12

RECAP

- The defense put together their best effort so far this year only allowing 283 yards of total offense to USF. We were able to sack QB B.J. Daniels three times and only allowed 57 yards through the air.

- Congratulations to safety Kiante Young for hauling in the Hilltoppers first interception in seven games. We have gone seven games without a defensive interception? When breaking negative streaks it is important to start off slowly.

- Although USF failed to move the ball through the air, they exploited our weakness in the run defense gaining 226 yards on the ground. Running back Demetris Murray led the way for the Bulls with 15 carries for 115 yards.

- Special teams allowed another big punt return of 67 yards by USF's Terrence Mitchell to set up a touchdown run by Daniels.

- Punter Hendrix Brakefield had a good game averaging 43.3 yards per punt on four attempts for the Hilltoppers. He has stepped up his game since the beginning of the season.

- Speaking of the kicking game, Casey Tinius had a game to forget missing on his field goal attempts (47, 50, and 45) and an extra point attempt. I know those are long field goal attempts but leaving points off the board after the offense puts together a good drive is a momentum killer.

- The Hilltoppers offense out gained South Florida 314 to 283 yards on the night that included Bobby Rainey being held to only 64 yards on 21 carries.

- Dreams do come true as Kawaun Jakes passed for 221 yards on 19-37 through the air. The coaching staff established the passing game early realizing the Bulls game plan was to stop Bobby Rainey.

- Tight end Jack Doyle had a career game with 7 receptions for 93 yards and a touchdown. He was involved early and often in the offense and scored on a 25 yard touchdown pass late in the fourth.

CONCLUSION

- Overall the offense showed their ability to move the ball throughout the entire ball game. WKU put together good drives early but could not capitalize due to missed field goals by Casey Tinius.

- The defense gave their best effort tonight by getting three sacks, an interception, and allowing USF punter Justin Brockhaus-Kahn to make a couple of cameo appearances.

- The Hilltoppers get a well deserved week off after a tough four game stretch to open the season. Now it is time for Sun Belt Conference play and victory is just around the corner but maybe a couple of blocks up!

END THE STREAK AND GO TOPS!