USF Football: 3 takeaways from Bulls' win over Temple

USF Football: 3 takeaways from Bulls’ win over Temple

TAMPA, FL - SEPTEMBER 21: Quarterback Quinton Flowers #9 of the South Florida Bulls celebrates with tight end Mitchell Wilcox #89 after rushing 22 yards for a touchdown during the second quarter of an NCAA football game against the Temple Owls on September 21, 2017 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images) /

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(Photo by Joseph Garnett Jr. /Getty Images) /

2. South Florida’s defense is legit

There’s no doubt about it, South Florida’s defense is legit. In fact, the Bulls’ defensive side of the ball doesn’t get nearly enough credit. Everyone talks about the offense led by Quinton Flowers, but the defense isn’t too shabby, either.

In fact, after allowing nearly 400 yards of offense to San Jose State in the season opener, the Bulls have clamped down and have been stingy — although they did allow over 300 yards to Illinois (most of it was passing yardage).

Against Temple on Thursday night, the Bulls allowed just 85 yards and intercepted four passes off two different Owl quarterbacks. The secondary looked much stronger than it did against Illinois, and that’s impressive if you truly think about it.

As for rushing yardage allowed, the Bulls held the Owls to minus-4 yards. Why doesn’t this unit get enough credit? That’s a good question, but clearly it’s gaining confidence as the season progresses. The run defense might just be the best in the AAC and the pass rush made Temple quarterbacks uncomfortable in the pocket.

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