CFN Fearless Prediction:

[Apis Bull]

South Florida (4-0) at Florida Atlantic (3-2)  4:00 EST, ESPNU

Why to watch: After taking small, methodical steps for years under Jim Leavitt, South Florida made a quantum leap last Friday night when it upset West Virginia in a program-defining win.  And all of a sudden, the little engine that could has been transformed into a locomotive, speeding to the favorite role in the Big East and a No. 6 ranking in the latest AP poll.  USF is sizzling these days, so it’ll be up to Leavitt to keep his kids focused on this week’s game with Florida Atlantic, a program that would like to use the Bulls as a blueprint for its own success story.  The Owls have an early lead in the Sun Belt Conference, courtesy of wins over Middle Tennessee State and North Texas, along with the confidence that comes with beating a Big Ten team, Minnesota, last month.  Knocking South Florida off its pedestal is just what Howard Schnellenberger needs to bring national exposure to his burgeoning program.

Why South Florida might win: The Bulls are built on a ferocious, speedy defense, but on this Saturday, the game will be on the offense.  In Florida Atlantic’s three games with BCS opponents, it’s surrendered an average of 42 points and almost 500 yards a game.  QB Matt Grothe will move the chains with his usual versatility, and RB Mike Ford will continue his push to become the Big East Offensive Freshman of the Year.  The Owls lack balance on offense, averaging just 113 yards a game on the ground, which is a recipe for problems against that swarming South Florida D.

Why Florida Atlantic might win: When facing a superior opponent, the one way to close the gap is by creating turnovers, something the Owls are doing better than all but one team in the country.  Led by freshman CB Tavious Polo’s seven interceptions, Florida Atlantic has 18 takeaways through five games, a testament to the aggressive style of play preached by defensive coordinator Kirk Hoza.  Sophomore QB Rusty Smith is an X factor, who carried the Owls to the upset of Minnesota with five touchdown passes and 463 yards on 27-of-44 passing.

Who to watch: If Florida Atlantic gets down early, the ball will be in the air plenty, meaning lots of opportunities for top-flight CBs Mike Jenkins and Trae Williams to break up passes and create turnovers.  The Bulls have allowed just one touchdown pass in the first three quarters of games this year, largely because of the air-tight coverage provided by their two senior corners.

What will happen: The last time South Florida was prone to being unfocused, it steamrolled North Carolina 37-10.  While a sluggish start isn’t out of the question, Leavitt won’t allow a letdown from a group kids that believe it’s a part of something special.

CFN Prediction: South Florida 30 … Florida Atlantic 16 ... Line: South Florida -15.5

Must See Rating: (5 Paris on Letterman - 1 Singing Bee) ... 2

http://cfn.scout.com/2/650790.html

[Bull Martin]

We beat out the singing bee!!

[Sunil]

is "paris on letterman" supposed to be good  ???

[Rocky Style]

I can't wait for this game.  Hurry up!

[BDYZR]

Plug in "Paris Hilton and David Letterman" on You Tube.

It's almost as funny as some of the UCiF posts.

GO BULLS!

FINISH STRONG!

[Velcro]

We beat out the singing bee!!

Pretty good for an illiterate bumble bee.

[outrunner]

Plug in "Paris Hilton and David Letterman" on You Tube.

It's almost as funny as some of the UCiF posts.

GO BULLS!

FINISH STRONG!

yep, just watched it, pretty funny stuff