USF Football Coach Jim Leavitt's Reputation on the Line in Rutgers Showdown

Strategic Insights -

USF head football coach Jim Leavitt is gearing up for a crucial matchup against Rutgers, a game that will likely have a significant impact on his reputation and the program's future. Leavitt's team is currently ranked 24th in the Coaches Poll, and a loss to the Scarlet Knights would undoubtedly drop them out of the top 25. The two teams have a history, with Rutgers having beaten the Bulls three straight times, including a 49-16 trouncing last year at Raymond James Stadium.

Key Takeaways:

  • Leavitt's reputation as a coach is on the line, with many considering the Rutgers game a defining moment in his career.
  • The 2007 game still haunts Leavitt, who feels that people forget the team's impressive rise to a No. 2 ranking and only remember the subsequent fall.
  • Middle linebacker Kion Wilson credits Leavitt with keeping the Rutgers game in the players' minds since the summer, motivating them to play with energy and enthusiasm.
  • Rutgers presents a challenging matchup for the Bulls, with an odd man front and a highly touted offensive line, led by leading receiver Tim Brown.
  • The Scarlet Knights have dominated the Bulls in their previous two meetings, intercepting three passes and recovering three fumbles, while converting successfully on 10 of 14 third down attempts.
  • Both teams start freshman quarterbacks, with Rutgers' Tom Savage being a more traditional pocket passer and USF's B.J. Daniels being a more mobile quarterback.
  • Rutgers has a significant edge in turnovers, leading the nation in turnover differential (2.25 per game) and scoring six special teams touchdowns this season.

Statistics:

  • USF is currently ranked 24th in the Coaches Poll.
  • Rutgers has beaten the Bulls three straight times, including a 49-16 game last year.
  • Rutgers leads the nation in turnover differential (2.25 per game).
  • The Scarlet Knights have gained 25 turnovers while losing only seven for a plus-18.
  • Rutgers has scored six special teams touchdowns this season.
  • The Bulls hope to take advantage of Tom Savage's lack of mobility, Rutgers being next to last in the Big East in sacks allowed (22).

Sources:

  • "USF Football Coach Jim Leavitt's Reputation on the Line in Rutgers Showdown" – AS OF THE DATE OF THIS REPORTTING obtained from a reputable news source.
  • Reporters covering the USF vs Rutgers game.