Breakdown: USF's Coordinators Ready for FAU
Ahead of USF’s showdown Saturday with Florida Atlantic at Raymond James Stadium, Bulls offensive coordinator Joel Gordon and defensive coordinator Todd Orlando emphasized their focus on fundamentals, discipline, and preparation. From ball security and tackling to leadership and depth, the coordinators said they are committed to staying grounded and executing at a high level as they face one of their toughest tests yet. With that in mind, here are the five main takeaways:
1.) USF Is Focused on Staying Grounded and Disciplined
Both coordinators echoed the same message: no distractions, no complacency. USF’s coaches are determined to “stay where their feet are” and treat each matchup as a one-week season. The staff has emphasized maturity and focus in practice — a reflection of veteran leadership and a locker room that understands how quickly success can slip away if focus wavers.
2.) Turnovers and Tackling Are the Core of the Team’s Identity
Ball security on offense and relentless pursuit on defense remain top priorities. The offensive staff acknowledged turnovers have already cost the Bulls a game, and they’ve made protecting the football a daily focus. On defense, improved tackling and pursuit angles have been key to limiting big plays and generating takeaways — many caused by the “second man to the ball,” which coaches credit to team speed and effort.
3. Depth and Development Are Paying Off Across the Roster
Injuries at key positions have forced young players — particularly at receiver and defensive back — to step up. The coordinators highlighted this as a sign of the program’s growing depth and development culture. Players like freshman receivers on offense and DB Jarvis Lee on defense are earning their spots through competition and hard work, showing how recruiting and player development are starting to pay dividends.
4. Veteran Leadership Anchors Both Sides of the Ball
Center Cole Best has become the emotional and vocal leader of the offense, setting the tone in meetings and practices, while defenders like Matt Harris and DJ Gordon embody the defensive standard. Coaches praised how these leaders combine intensity with selflessness, creating a culture where accountability flows from the locker room as much as the sideline.
5. FAU’s Offense Presents USF’s Biggest Test Yet
Defensively, USF faces a major challenge against FAU’s up-tempo, precision-based attack. The coordinator called the Owls “the fastest-paced offense we’ve seen,” led by a quarterback who gets the ball out in under two seconds and rarely makes mistakes. The Bulls will need discipline, communication, and smart pressure to slow down an offense that stretches defenses sideline to sideline.
