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South Florida Bulls vs Florida Atlantic Owls Betting Preview
The South Florida Bulls enter Week 8 as one of the hottest teams in the American Conference, coming off a dominant 63-36 win over North Texas. They’ll now host the Florida Atlantic Owls for their homecoming game Saturday night at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa. Kickoff is set for 7:30 PM ET on ESNU.
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Both programs bring explosive offenses to this matchup, making it one of the most intriguing games on the Week 8 slate. According to the latest college football odds, South Florida is a heavy favorite, but Florida Atlantic’s passing game could keep things competitive.
Bulls Riding Momentum into Week 8
South Florida (5-1, 2-0 AAC) climbed to No. 19 in the AP Poll after throttling previously unbeaten North Texas last week. The Bulls erased an early deficit by scoring four straight touchdowns to take control. It was their most complete offensive performance of the season and reaffirmed their status as a top Group of Five contender.
Head coach Alex Golesh has kept his team focused despite the growing national attention. “We don’t have to do anything extraordinary,” Golesh said this week. “We just have to do the little things better than everyone else.”
Quarterback Byrum Brown continues to shine as both a passer and runner. He leads the team with 1,439 passing yards and 13 touchdowns while adding 364 yards and five scores on the ground. Brown’s dual-threat ability fuels an attack that ranks among the top 15 nationally in scoring.
Running back Sam Franklin and wide receiver Sean Atkins provide balance, while the offensive line has helped the Bulls average more than 300 rushing yards in back-to-back games. The defense, meanwhile, forced three interceptions last week, turning the tide in a game that could have gone either way early.
For bettors tracking offensive efficiency and trends, South Florida’s profile is one of the most profitable in the AAC this season. Check the college football picks page for verified betting trends and model projections.
Owls’ Air Raid Could Challenge the Bulls
Florida Atlantic (3-3, 2-1 AAC) enters off a 53-33 win over UAB that showcased its own offensive firepower. Quarterback Caden Veltkamp, a transfer from Western Kentucky, has quietly become one of the top passers in the country. He leads the conference with 1,781 yards and 14 touchdowns, directing an offense that ranks fourth nationally in passing yards per game (322.8).
Head coach Zach Kittley has the Owls moving fast and throwing often, relying on precision and tempo to pressure defenses. “When you play in the American, it’s tough every week,” Kittley said. “You just have to stay consistent and find ways to execute.”
Wide receiver Easton Messer has been a standout target with 52 receptions, while the defense has generated pressure, ranking 14th in sacks. However, inconsistency and injuries have kept FAU from breaking through against top-tier teams.
The Owls’ passing game could test a South Florida secondary that has shown vulnerability at times this season. If Veltkamp can avoid turnovers, FAU’s aerial attack might turn this into a shootout.
Line Movement and Odds
The Bulls opened as strong home favorites at -1928 on the moneyline, with the Owls listed at +995. The spread has hovered around -21.5 in favor of South Florida, and the total sits at 73.5 points, one of the highest on the Week 8 board.
Early bettors have backed the Bulls, reflecting confidence in their offensive depth and home-field advantage. However, Florida Atlantic’s recent scoring outbursts make the over a popular play as well. Full odds and real-time line updates are available on the college football odds page.
Matchup Breakdown
South Florida Bulls Outlook
The Bulls’ success revolves around quarterback Byrum Brown, whose mobility keeps defenses guessing. South Florida ranks 12th in scoring offense and 24th in rushing yards nationally. Their ability to extend drives — averaging 137 first downs — showcases a balanced, efficient attack.
Defensively, South Florida has been opportunistic, forcing multiple turnovers in consecutive games. The home crowd at Raymond James Stadium has also provided a major boost, with the Bulls unbeaten in their last five home contests.
Injuries remain a concern, as several contributors are questionable, including tight end Weston Wolff and wide receiver Jaden Alexis. But depth across the roster has allowed the Bulls to keep executing at a high level.
Florida Atlantic Owls Outlook
The Owls’ path to victory lies in their ability to air it out. With Veltkamp leading a top-five passing attack, FAU has demonstrated the ability to move the ball in chunks. Their offensive line has also held up well, allowing them to stay aggressive on deep routes.
The defense, however, must find ways to contain Brown’s rushing ability. Allowing long drives could be disastrous against an offense as explosive as South Florida’s. FAU’s special teams have also struggled, which could swing field position in a tight game.
For a deeper look at both programs and player trends, refer to the NCAAF expert betting guide.
Key Edge
South Florida’s dual-threat offense and home dominance provide the clear edge. The Bulls’ balanced attack should wear down FAU’s defense over four quarters. While the Owls’ passing game is dangerous, South Florida’s pace and physicality will likely dictate the tempo.
This matchup also carries postseason implications, with USF looking to maintain its Group of Five playoff hopes.
Betting Trends
South Florida has covered in seven straight games as a favorite and has gone over the total in all of them. The Bulls are also 9-1 straight up in their last ten as favorites.
Florida Atlantic has leaned heavily toward high-scoring games as well, hitting the over in eight of its last ten when totals exceed 50 points. The Owls are 9-3 on the over as underdogs in their last 12 contests.
Best Bets and Prediction
The Bulls’ home-field advantage, quarterback experience, and offensive rhythm make them the safer play. FAU’s offense should find success early, but South Florida’s depth and explosiveness should pull away late.
Projected Score: South Florida 48, Florida Atlantic 24
Best Bet: South Florida -21.5
Secondary Lean: Over 73.5 points
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