USF 31, Cincinnati 16
Photo courtesy of gousfbulls.com
Only one team now stands in the way of USF's chance at a BCS berth. That means one more game for USF to figure itself out before take-two-homecoming against West Virginia.
The Bulls have every right to complain about the relative lack of attention in this area, particularly with two of the Big Three totally underachieving. But national attention has been pretty good. They had a two-page picture and story Sports Illustrated. Even the lousy people that decide the odds on amateur athletics gave USF 21 points for today's game.
The issue here is that the team still hasn't quite played like it did against Louisville. Sure, that was just about the perfect performance, but I'm not sure we've come close to perfect, save the win against Big East doormat Syracuse.
This game was no different. Pat Julmiste was much better than he's been of late, but throwing with a lead (albeit a slim one, 10-7 at halftime) at home against a mediocre team is usually pretty easy. USF didn't turn the ball over today, but it did fumble three times. And then there are the penalties, all 18 of them.
I don't want to sound fatalistic. We should all be very excited about everything this team is accomplishing. We should be excited about the possibility of a bowl game, let alone a BCS bowl. I just don't want temper expectations to avoid bitter disappointment. This team is young - things are probably only going to get better. This town has been sort of spoiled by success of late. The fact that the Bulls are knocking on the BCS's door smacks of Tampa Bay destiny. Based on how this team has played overall this season, we should probably be thrilled if USF makes any bowl game, which it should if it beats UCONN next week and at least hangs with West Virginia.
It's not unreasonable to think that USF can win Big East. But it is unreasonable to think it's in the bag.
P.S. - Jim Leavitt - when K-State calls in the coming weeks about their job opening, let the machine get it.
And congrats to the USF men's soccer team for advancing in the NCAA tournament!
Posted by Joel at 11/19/2005 05:09:00 PM
« Home