In Week 2 of the 2025 College Football Regular Season, the South Florida Bulls will travel to Gainesville to take on the Florida Gators at the Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Both teams are entering the game with an unbeaten record after securing victories in Week 1. The game is set for Saturday, September 6th, with kickoff at 4:15 PM, and will be broadcast on SECN.
The South Florida Bulls, representing the American Conference, started their season strong with a decisive 34-7 win over the Boise State Broncos. Their success in the season opener was highlighted by a robust defense that capitalized on turnovers, forcing four fumbles. This match marks their first road game of the season, presenting a new challenge against a high-ranked opponent.
The Florida Gators, ranked #13 in the AP poll and #15 in the Coaches Poll, exhibited their strength with a commanding 55-0 win against the LIU Sharks. Playing on their home turf again, the Gators will look to maintain their momentum, having dominated their first game with 28 first downs and a balanced offensive attack. As they host South Florida, the Gators aim to continue their early-season success in front of their home crowd.
Florida vs South Florida At a Glance
- Venue: Ben Hill Griffin Stadium in Gainesville, FL
- Game Time: Saturday, September 6, 2025 at 4:15 PM
- TV Channel: SECN
- South Florida Record: 1-0 this season
- Florida Gators Ranking: #13 AP, #15 Coaches Poll
- Game Odds: Florida favored by 17.5 points
Florida Gators: A Gator’s Tale Against LSU Tigers
Florida Gators Overview
The Florida Gators are coming off a commanding victory against the LIU Sharks with a score of 55-0. Their performance was outstanding, especially in securing first downs and effectively moving the ball both through the air and on the ground. With their offense ranking 12th in points for and defense leading in points against for the current season, they are poised to make a significant impact in their upcoming game.
Quarterback DJ Lagway led the charge in their opener, showcasing impressive statistics despite a minor leg injury. His ability to pass for 120 yards without any interceptions speaks volumes of his precision. Meanwhile, Tramell Jones Jr. also contributed significantly, with a higher passing yardage at 131, further solidifying the Gators’ quarterback depth.
Offensive Strategy
Florida’s offensive unit demonstrated balance with 251 passing yards and 200 rushing yards against LIU. This balanced attack allows them to keep defenses guessing, a tactic that can be crucial against tougher opponents like LSU. With top performers like Jadan Baugh rushing for over 100 yards, the Gators can exploit any lapses in the Tigers’ run defense.
The receiving corps, led by Vernell Brown III and supported by the likes of Taylor Spierto and J. Michael Sturdivant, provides Lagway with plenty of options downfield. Their ability to find open space and make critical receptions will be key in stretching the field and keeping the LSU defense on its heels.
Defensive Prowess
Defensively, the Gators have been nothing short of dominant. Allowing zero points in their season opener places them first in the nation for points against. Their ability to pressure quarterbacks and force turnovers will be crucial in disrupting LSU’s offensive rhythm.
The Gators’ defense has shown an aptitude for creating opportunities, evidenced by their high ranking in fumbles recovered. This knack for capitalizing on opponents’ mistakes could play a pivotal role against an LSU team that is known for its aggressive offensive play.
Injury Concerns
Injuries remain a concern for Florida, with key players like Kahleil Jackson and Caleb Banks currently sidelined. DJ Lagway’s probable return is a positive, but uncertainties around other key players could impact their depth. Managing these injuries will be vital for maintaining their momentum throughout the season.
Florida Gators Betting Trends
- SU Last 3: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 5: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU Last 10: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU as Favorite: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Night Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- SU in Home Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
As the Gators gear up for their upcoming battle against LSU, their previous performance and strategic depth across both offense and defense suggest they are ready to tackle any challenges. Whether they can maintain this high level of play and adapt to injuries will be essential in their quest for victory.
South Florida Bulls: A Look at the Season So Far
Offensive Performance
The South Florida Bulls have started the 2025 season strong, recording 34 points in their first game, placing them 25th in scoring. Their passing game is ranked 44th with 255 yards, indicating a solid aerial attack.
Despite their offensive prowess, the Bulls’ rushing game ranks 82nd with 117 yards, suggesting room for improvement on the ground.
Defensive Strengths
Defensively, the Bulls have shown formidable capability, allowing just 7 points in their season opener, ranking them 4th nationally in points against. Their pass rush has recorded 1 sack, placing them 7th in the nation.
South Florida’s ability to recover fumbles is unmatched, as they lead the nation with 3 fumbles recovered in the first game.
Key Players to Watch
Quarterback Byrum Brown stands out with 210 passing yards, ranking 72nd nationally, and has shown leadership on the field. Running back Cartevious Norton also made an impact with 15 rushing yards and a touchdown, showcasing his potential as a key offensive player.
Wide receiver Keshaun Singleton has been a reliable target with 5 receptions for 93 yards, ranking him 61st among receivers, while kicker Nico Gramatica has been perfect, making 2 field goals.
Recent Performance
In their recent outing against Boise State, the Bulls secured a convincing 34-7 win. Despite being outperformed in first downs, South Florida capitalized on turnovers, recovering 4 fumbles to control the game.
Their defense held Boise State to just 7 points, showcasing a disciplined and effective unit capable of controlling high-pressure situations.
Upcoming Challenges
The Bulls are set to play the Florida Gators away in their next game, a crucial test for their defense against a traditionally strong opponent. Following this, they will face the Miami Hurricanes in another challenging away game.
Returning home, South Florida will host South Carolina State Bulldogs, a game where they can look to capitalize on home-field advantage.
Betting Trends
- SU All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- ATS All Games: 1-0 (100.0%)
- O/U All Games: 0-1 (0.0%)
Florida vs South Florida Prediction: Over 56.5
Given the offensive capabilities of both teams, the total of 56.5 seems achievable. Florida Gators, ranked #13 in the AP Poll, demonstrated their offensive prowess by scoring 55 points in their first game of the season. Additionally, South Florida’s performance in their last postseason game, where they scored 41 points, indicates their ability to contribute significantly to the total.
Florida’s defense, while strong, may still allow points against a South Florida team that managed to score 34 points in their first game this season. The history of high-scoring games between these teams, as seen in their previous head-to-head matchups with totals over 58, further supports the potential for a high-scoring game. This combination of factors suggests that both offenses will have plenty of opportunities to reach and exceed the 56.5 total.
With South Florida’s offense ranking 25th in points for and Florida’s recent offensive output, expect both teams to put up points. Furthermore, the game is set in the afternoon, which often yields higher-scoring games due to ideal playing conditions. This setting, combined with the offensive capabilities, makes the over 56.5 an attractive pick.
Based on these factors, the projected final score would be Florida 42 – South Florida 24, hitting the over comfortably. Both teams are likely to find success on the offensive end, making this game one to watch for a high total.
- Florida vs South Florida Prediction: Over 56.5
- Florida vs South Florida Score: Florida 42 – South Florida 24
