South Florida vs. Western Kentucky Short Report | Sep 2, 2023
South Florida
24 - 41
Houchens Industries–L.T. Smith Stadium
Bowling Green, KY
Sep 2, 2023
Western Kentucky
Houchens Industries–L.T. Smith Stadium
Bowling Green, KY
Sep 2, 2023
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Game Recap
Western Kentucky secured an emphatic 41-24 victory over the South Florida Bulls at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium. The game witnessed both teams executing high-octane plays in a see-saw first quarter. South Florida, spearheaded by standout dual-threat quarterback Byrum Brown, initially displayed formidable rushing prowess with an impressive opening drive touchdown. Nevertheless, Western Kentucky's offensive and defensive units showcased consistency and adaptability, allowing them to seize control by the second half. As CBS Sports reported, the Bull's excessive penalties and turnovers were the Achilles' heel, each one meticulously capitalized upon by the resolute Hilltoppers.
South Florida's inability to maintain discipline and ball security proved costly despite Brown's stellar performance both on the ground and through the air. Western Kentucky's defensive masterclass included pivotal turnovers, such as JaQues Evans' game-changing fumble recovery for a touchdown, which extinguished the Bull's comeback hopes. According to FOX Sports' analysis, Western Kentucky quarterback Austin Reed exemplified leadership and precision, amassing 336 passing yards and accounting for three touchdowns. Western Kentucky's dynamic second half, highlighted by long touchdown receptions, solidified their commanding performance and ultimate victory.
Key Plays:
Byrum Brown (South Florida Bulls)
Byrum Brown, utilizing his dual-threat capabilities, rushed for a 6-yard touchdown, capping a meticulously executed drive and putting South Florida on the board first. This touchdown showcased his agility and vision in navigating Western Kentucky's defensive line.
Markese Stepp (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
Markese Stepp bulldozed his way for a 2-yard touchdown run, tying the game after a swift offensive drive. His power and determination set the tone for Western Kentucky's resilient offensive strategy.
Khafre Brown (South Florida Bulls)
Khafre Brown demonstrated his speed and route-running prowess by catching an 84-yard touchdown pass. This electrifying play energized the Bulls' offense and momentarily gave South Florida the lead.
Austin Reed (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
Quarterback Austin Reed broke multiple tackles en route to a 16-yard rushing touchdown, demonstrating his versatility and tying the game in a crucial moment before the half.
Dalvin Smith (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
Dalvin Smith caught a perfectly thrown 42-yard touchdown pass, giving Western Kentucky a crucial lead right after halftime. His deep threat ability kept the Bulls' secondary on their heels.
Moussa Barry (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
Moussa Barry extended the Hilltoppers' lead significantly with a 51-yard touchdown reception. His explosive speed and precise route-running made the play a highlight of Western Kentucky's offensive display.
JaQues Evans (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
JaQues Evans recovered and returned a fumble for 27 yards, delivering a decisive blow to South Florida's comeback hopes. This defensive touchdown underscored Western Kentucky’s opportunistic defense.
Kendrick Simpkins (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
Kendrick Simpkins sacked the quarterback for an 8-yard loss, effectively preventing South Florida from executing a last-minute score. His relentless pursuit encapsulated the Hilltoppers' defensive dominance in the final moments.
Standout Players:
Byrum Brown (South Florida Bulls, QB)
Byrum Brown had an exemplary dual-threat performance, amassing 160 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns on the ground, complemented by 166 passing yards and a touchdown through the air. Despite his offensive heroics, his 2 interceptions were critical setbacks.
Austin Reed (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, QB)
Austin Reed demonstrated exceptional leadership and accuracy, passing for 336 yards and 2 touchdowns while also rushing for a score. His versatility and command of the offense were pivotal in the Hilltoppers' victory.
Khafre Brown (South Florida Bulls, WR)
Khafre Brown's impact was significant, marked by an 84-yard touchdown reception. This play highlighted his elite speed and receiving skills, providing a vital spark for the Bulls' offense.
Dalvin Smith (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, WR)
Dalvin Smith led the aerial assault with 97 receiving yards and a touchdown. His reliable hands and route-running precision were crucial in extending drives and shifting momentum in Western Kentucky's favor.
JaQues Evans (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, LB)
JaQues Evans made his mark with a defensive touchdown on a fumble recovery. His consistent contributions throughout the game bolstered the Hilltoppers' defensive tenacity.
Kendrick Simpkins (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, DB)
Kendrick Simpkins delivered when it mattered most with 2 late-game sacks, one of which was crucial in disrupting the Bulls' final offensive efforts. His relentless pressure epitomized Western Kentucky's defensive resilience.
References:
South Florida Bulls vs. Western Kentucky Hilltoppers - Final Score - September 02, 2023 | FOX Sports
Source
South Florida Bulls vs. Western Kentucky Hilltoppers Live Score and Stats - September 2, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
Tops open season with win over South Florida
Football vs Western Kentucky on 9/2/2023 - Box Score - USF Athletics
Team
1
2
3
4
T
South Florida Bulls
14
3
7
0
24
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
7
10
14
10
41
