With the return of several star players including QB B.J. Daniels, USF has emerged as a chic sleeper pick to earn a spot in a BCS game.
Still, questions remain before the Bulls can enter the upper-echelon of the Big East:
What are the expectations for QB B.J. Daniels in his senior season?
There’s a good chance Daniels will end his South Florida career as the Big East’s career leader in all-purpose yards. Daniels arrived at USF as an athlete and has morphed into a smart, instinctive quarterback who can effectively manage the game. Coach Skip Holtz points to Daniels’ ability to read defenses quicker and spot the hot-read when the blitz is coming on third downs. Daniels has been consistent as an upper-classmen, finishing with an almost identical completion percentage in the last two seasons (58.9 percent in 2011; 58.4 in 2010.) His biggest challenge in 2012 might be in leading his team in pressurized situations in the fourth quarter. If Daniels can lead the Bulls to a top-tier bowl game, it’ll be a successful year for him.
How explosive can the receiving corps be?
Holtz describes his current crop of receivers as possibly the most talented group he’s had since arriving from East Carolina in 2010. Junior Sterling Griffin might be fully-healthy for the first time since suffering a dislocated ankle and broken fibula two seasons ago. If Griffin can remain healthy, he can contend for a spot on the All-Big East First Team. Griffin is surrounded by playmakers in sophomore Deonte Welch and senior Victor Marc. Sophomore Chris Dunkley, a transfer from Florida, provides depth while freshman D’vario Montgomery (6-5, 204) provides size. Senior Evan Landi is one of the most athletic tight ends in the conference.
Can the Bulls effectively pressure QBs?
USF ranked third in the Big East in sacks last season with 39, but seven came from LB DeDe Lattimore. Junior DE Ryne Giddins arguably has the highest ceiling of any lineman in the conference, but needs help on the other end. The Bulls must receive production from junior Julius Forte (6-2, 255), junior Tevin Mims (6-3, 250) and freshman Eric Lee (6-3, 234) in order for Giddins to avoid constant double-teams.
Can an inexperienced secondary step up?
The Bulls have one of the Big East’s top shutdown corners in senior Kayvon Webster. The 5-11, 198 pound defensive back is confident that several newcomers will help fortify the secondary. A pair of junior college transfers -- junior CBs Fidel Montgomery and Joshua Brown -- can contribute immediately. Montgomery is regarded as a tackling machine, while Brown possesses strong ball skills. Holtz has been impressed with the play of heralded freshman CB Chris Bivins Jr. early in camp. USF finished 71st in pass defense last season, according to footballoutsiders.com.
Can 2012 be a breakout season for the Bulls?
USF arguably had one of the most talented squads in the conference last season, but still finished just 5-7. Now with seven starters returning on both sides of the football, Holtz’s team has few excuses. The Bulls lost several close games last year in excruciating fashion. But with Daniels returning for his fourth year as a starter, USF has emerged as a sleeper on the national level. Expect the Bulls to contend for the Big East championship.
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