The Brian Hartline era in South Florida will officially kick off tomorrow as the University of South Florida Bulls host the Florida International University Panthers. The Bulls are coming off a 9-4 season, and with that success, head coach Alex Golesh left the program along with many of its players.
The Bulls have a completely retooled roster as Hartline has shown great ability to recruit and get high-profile transfers to come play at South Florida. Among the many transfers, Michael Van Buren Jr. will be one to watch as he has officially been named the team’s starting quarterback.
Van Buren Jr. has two years of experience playing for Mississippi State and LSU. Hartline cited Van Buren Jr.’s consistency and performance in the team’s last scrimmage as major reasons for the decision. Luke Kromenhoek will be the one backing up Van Buren Jr. and also had a strong camp that made the decision close.
For Saturday’s game, the Bulls will be favored to win as their retooled offense features explosive receivers and a line that has four new starters up front. Defensively, South Florida improved its pass rush with the addition of C.J. Hicks and has a defined leader of the defense in Florida transfer Grayson “Pup” Howard, who was recently voted a team captain.
One of the biggest question marks entering the game for South Florida is how quickly its new offense can come together. The Bulls are expected to have at least nine new starters on offense, making Saturday the first real opportunity to see how the new unit performs.
Despite Hartline’s strong reputation for receiver development, South Florida has been vocal about being physical and starting up front by establishing the run. Offensive coordinator Tim Beck has been clear about his intention to run the football. That strategy could also help take pressure off Van Buren Jr. as he settles into the new offense in a game setting.
When the Bulls and Van Buren Jr. do take to the air, they will have plenty of options. Mudia Reuben returns to the team after posting 36 catches for 495 yards and five touchdowns last season. In addition, South Florida also has transfers such as Jaron Glover, Arhmad Branch, and Bryson Rodgers,who round out a reworked receiving group.
Defensively, the Bulls will look to establish an aggressive identity under Josh Aldridge. Aldridge has talked about wanting to create havoc throughout the offseason, with an emphasis on dominating up front. Hicks and Howard give the Bulls two highly touted players around the line of scrimmage to help make this goal a reality.
Saturday will be the first opportunity to see how quickly this Bulls team can piece itself together. The Bulls are favored entering the game, but with a new staff and roster, we will get our first real look at what could be in store during Hartline era.
South Florida and FIU will kick off Saturday at 7 p.m. from Raymond James Stadium. The game will be streamed on ESPN+.
