JS: In the two USF losses what were the keys?
MM: The Bulls fell in consecutive games to Houston and Tulane in an extremely similar, gut-wrenching fashion. In my opinion, the glaring issues were offensive turnovers, the offensive’s inability to convert redzone trips into six points, atrocious third down defense, and the Bulls completely lacking a true pass rush due to the litany of injuries.
JS: What would your grade be on USF quarterback play this year?
MM: Having to grade Blake Barnett’s play is a bit tough because he’s a first-year starter, but at this point I have to go with a C+. Barnett, despite having some extremely bright moments, has nine interceptions in as many games and has missed several throws this season he must make going forward. I see a lot of high side in Barnett and he is growing in front of our eyes weekly, but has not hit full stride just yet.
JS: Which player from the solid USF offense should the Bearcats defense key on this Saturday?
MM: The USF rushing attack has been beastly for the Bulls throughout 2018, with redshirt junior running back Jordan Cronkrite sitting just 54 yards away from becoming the fourth Bull in program history to ellipse 1,000 yards, and true freshman Johnny Ford has really come on strong scoring eight touchdowns in the last five contests. If I was Marcus Freeman that’s who I would be talking about all week long.
JS: Who is the playmaker on the USF defense the Bearcats offense must account for?
MM: The Bulls’ team leader in tackles linebacker Khalid McGee returns from suspension Saturday, so I would easily point to McGee or his cohort at linebacker Greg Reaves. Reaves actually plays defensive end but has stepped in brilliantly for the injured Nico Sawtelle (shoulder).
JS: What’s your prediction for Saturday’s game?
MM: The weather forecast is a blistering high of 40 degrees with a projected low around 23…. I see 27-20 Bulls bouncing back on the road at Nippert Stadium… but our contributor Will Turner who is traveling to the game went with 34-21 Bearcats with our Florida boys freezing up in the frigid showdown.
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