Take Five: USF Focused on Discipline, Efficiency, and Unity Ahead of Navy

STORY BY MARCUS MORGAN

After a statement win against conference rival UTSA, USF continues its preparations against AAC front-runner Navy in a top of the conference showdown. On Wednesday, coordinators Joel Gordon and Todd Orlando met with reporters to talk about where the Bulls are on both sides of the ball. Here are the biggest things to takeaways from their respective conferences.

1. Efficiency and Preparation Define the Offense

The Bulls are carrying the confidence of a complete team performance against UTSA. Offensive Coordinator Joel Gordon said their 49–21 win proved how mentally sharp and efficient this offense has become. The game started unusually, with the Bulls’ offense waiting nearly an hour before taking the field, but when it did, the unit never missed a beat.

“We were probably standing on the sideline for close to an hour… the fear is you’ve got a 14-point lead that the defense put up, and then you go out and don’t play hungry,” Gordon said. “But we did exactly what we wanted to do… the guys were ready to play, and I think we scored on the first five possessions.”

That immediate spark reflected a group that has learned to stay locked in regardless of the circumstances.

2. Davenport’s Emergence Balances the Offense

A big part of USF’s offensive consistency has come from the development of running back Nykhai Davenport. Gordon said he has become a reliable and physical weapon.

“When Nykhai has got his opportunities, man, he’s made them count,” Gordon said. “He’s been really productive all year long. He’s a young player too, and he’s going to continue to turn into a really good one.”

Davenport’s recent performances have provided balance to the Bulls’ attack, giving the offense a powerful presence behind an improving offensive line. He finished with seven carries for 94 yards and a pair of touchdowns last week against the Roadrunners.

3. The Defensive Front Is Setting the Tone

On the defensive side, coordinator Todd Orlando credited USF’s success to a deep, physical front and a defense that’s been able to dictate games early. Against UTSA, the Bulls set the tone immediately with two early turnovers — both created by cornerback Jarvis Lee, who was later named AAC Defensive Player of the Week.

“It was good to see Tavin finish one… and then Jarvis comes up big again and Freddie [Gaskin]  picks it up and scores,” Orlando said. “Pretty cool moment to be able to score two touchdowns and start to build a lead on those guys.”

4. Team Chemistry Is Driving Defensive Discipline

Orlando said that physicality and experience up front have been crucial, but the defense’s chemistry is what truly separates this group.

“It starts with the guys up front,” he said. “We got five guys from the portal, they’ve all played at big places. They’re long, they have mass to them. And then if you have that along with experienced linebackers, you have a chance.”

Beyond talent, Orlando said the unit’s togetherness is what’s made the difference.

“It’s not a magic call or a play here and there,” he said. “It’s because our guys are more united… that’s the reason why we’re winning.”

5. Efficiency and Turnovers Will Be Key Against Navy

Both coordinators know that facing Navy will require the Bulls to maintain that same focus and discipline. With the Midshipmen’s ball-control offense designed to shorten games, USF must maximize every opportunity.

“It’s not so much about how much time you have — it’s when you get the ball, you’ve got to produce,” Gordon said.

On defense, Orlando stressed the importance of creating turnovers and getting off the field. The Bulls made an interception and forced a fumble and returned both for touchdowns in the first quarter against UTSA.

“You can’t get off the field, you’re going to go at it again for another seven minutes… that absolutely is going to be the key to this game.”