USF Will Face UTSA on Thursday Evening

The South Florida Bulls host UTSA as Brian Hartline squares off against quarterback Owen McCown.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Football

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Do you plan to watch the upcoming football game between USF and UTSA?

USF will take on the UTSA football team this Thursday evening in a contest broadcast on ESPN at 7:30. The matchup features a personal connection as USF coach Brian Hartline competes against Owen McCown, the son of Hartline's former teammate.

Why it matters

The game provides a tactical test for the USF defense as they attempt to stifle the veteran production of UTSA quarterback Owen McCown. It follows a significant previous victory for South Florida against this opponent.

Owen McCown has started 35 games for UTSA and holds a career total of 7,871 passing yards. In his last outing, McCown completed 16-of-23 passes for 200 yards.

The players

Brian Hartline

He is the current head coach of the USF football team and a former NFL wide receiver.

Owen McCown

He is the starting quarterback for UTSA who previously played for the University of Colorado.

Josh McCown

He is a former NFL quarterback and the father of Owen McCown who played alongside Brian Hartline.

The details

USF looks to build on their performance from November 2025, when they defeated UTSA 55-23 at Raymond James Stadium. The focus remains on the defensive unit, which faces the challenge of containing McCown, who began his collegiate career at Colorado in 2022.

Brian Hartline and Josh McCown were teammates during the 2015 season.
Owen McCown started his collegiate career at Colorado in 2022.
USF secured a 55-23 win over UTSA in November 2025.
The game is scheduled for this Thursday evening at 7:30.

Season Trajectory

This game updates the competitive standing between these two programs following their meeting in the 2025 season. A win here shifts the momentum for either team as they navigate the remainder of their current schedule.

Fans tracking team stats should note Owen McCown has maintained a high volume of play with 35 career starts at UTSA. The outcome will influence the regional standing as USF attempts to replicate their 55-point offensive performance from last season.

The takeaway

The matchup highlights the evolution of UTSA's offense under the direction of an experienced multi-year starter. Viewers can monitor how effectively the USF defensive scheme adjusts to a familiar opponent in this primetime slot.