Introduction
The South Florida Bulls football program, representing the University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa, Florida, has a unique and relatively short history compared to other college football teams. Founded in the late 1990s, the Bulls have quickly made a name for themselves, achieving remarkable milestones and establishing a passionate fan base. This article delves into the history of South Florida Bulls football, highlighting its key moments, challenges, and successes.
The Founding of the Program (1997-1998)
The South Florida Bulls football program was officially established in 1997, with the University of South Florida deciding to launch a football team to compete at the collegiate level. Jim Leavitt, a former assistant coach at Kansas State, was appointed as the program’s first head coach. The team played its inaugural season in 1997 as a Division I-AA (now known as the FCS) independent, and in just two seasons, the Bulls demonstrated their potential by achieving a winning record.
Transition to Division I-A (1999-2004)
In 2001, South Florida made the significant jump to Division I-A (now known as the FBS), the highest level of college football. This transition marked a new era for the program, as it began competing against more established teams. The Bulls joined Conference USA (C-USA) in 2003, which provided them with a more competitive schedule and greater exposure. Despite the challenges of playing in a more difficult division, the Bulls continued to progress, showing resilience and determination.
Joining the Big East Conference (2005-2012)
One of the most significant moments in the history of South Florida Bulls football came in 2005 when the team joined the Big East Conference. This move allowed the Bulls to compete at a higher level and against some of the most prestigious programs in college football. The 2005 season also marked USF’s first appearance in a bowl game, the Meineke Car Care Bowl, where they faced NC State.
The Bulls’ most successful season came in 2007 when they achieved a school-record nine wins, including a victory over then-ranked No. 5 West Virginia. At one point during the season, South Florida was ranked No. 2 in the BCS standings, a remarkable achievement for a program just a decade old. Although the team did not finish as strongly as it started, the 2007 season remains a highlight in the Bulls’ history.
The Decline and Coaching Changes (2013-2016)
After the success of the late 2000s, the Bulls faced a period of decline. Jim Leavitt was dismissed in 2010 due to allegations of misconduct, leading to a period of instability for the program. Skip Holtz, who took over as head coach in 2010, struggled to replicate the success of his predecessor, and the team’s performance on the field began to suffer.
In 2013, Willie Taggart was hired as the new head coach, bringing a renewed sense of optimism to the program. Taggart focused on rebuilding the team, emphasizing recruiting and developing local talent. His efforts began to pay off in 2015 when the Bulls finished with an 8-5 record and earned a trip to the Miami Beach Bowl.
The Charlie Strong Era (2017-2019)
Willie Taggart’s success at USF led to his departure for Oregon, and Charlie Strong, a former head coach at Texas and Louisville, was hired to lead the Bulls in 2017. Strong inherited a team with a solid foundation and immediately made an impact. In his first season, the Bulls finished with a 10-2 record, including a thrilling victory over Texas Tech in the Birmingham Bowl.
Despite a strong start, Strong’s tenure at USF was marked by inconsistency. The team struggled to maintain its momentum in the following seasons, and after back-to-back losing records in 2018 and 2019, Strong was dismissed.
The Jeff Scott Era and Rebuilding (2020-Present)
In December 2019, USF hired Jeff Scott, a former Clemson co-offensive coordinator, as the new head coach. Scott was tasked with rebuilding the program and restoring it to its former glory. His tenure, however, has been challenging, particularly with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on college sports.
The Bulls have faced difficulties in recent seasons, struggling to find consistency on the field. However, Scott has focused on building a strong foundation, emphasizing the importance of recruiting, player development, and creating a winning culture. While the results have been mixed, there is optimism that the Bulls can return to their winning ways in the near future.
Impact on the Community and Fan Base
Throughout its history, South Florida Bulls football has had a significant impact on the local community and its fan base. The program has united students, alumni, and residents of the Tampa Bay area, creating a strong sense of pride and loyalty. The Bulls’ games at Raymond James Stadium, shared with the NFL’s Tampa Bay Buccaneers, have become a focal point of the community’s sporting culture.
Rivalries and Memorable Games
The South Florida Bulls have developed several rivalries over the years, most notably with the UCF Knights in the “War on I-4” rivalry. This annual game has produced some of the most memorable moments in USF football history, with intense matchups and thrilling finishes. The rivalry has helped elevate the profile of both programs and added an extra layer of excitement to each season.
Conclusion
The history of South Florida Bulls football is a story of rapid growth, remarkable achievements, and enduring challenges. From its humble beginnings in the late 1990s to its rise to national prominence in the 2000s, the Bulls have established themselves as a competitive and respected program in college football. While the team has faced setbacks in recent years, the foundation is in place for a resurgence, and the future holds promise for South Florida Bulls football.
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