Quarterback Mike White
The true first-year at quarterback is the fourth different starting quarterback of the year for the University of South Florida Bulls. But after a solid first start on Halloween against the University of Houston, the Bulls took a step back last week against the University of Memphis.
White threw for under 200 yards, one touchdown and four interceptions in the loss against the Tigers.
This week, White faces an even worse pass defense than Houston’s in SMU’s 119th ranked pass defense.
If SMU can’t force pressure on White, he may be able to torch SMU like he did Houston.
Wide reciever Andre Davis
I watched Andre Davis in Tampa, Fla. at Jefferson High School, where he earned the nickname “Freak Show” and he has earned the right to keep it at USF.
The 6-1, 200 pound receiver has a huge vertical leap and has developed nicely since his first year.
In the last two games with White as the starter, Davis has caught 16 balls for 244 yards and a touchdown.
Davis did not have a 100-yard game until White became the starter so the two are developing a nice chemistry together.
Defensive end Ryne Giddins
The senior defensive end from right down the road in Seffner, Fla. is a solid speed rusher for the Bulls and, while he has been contained for the most part with only three sacks on the year, he has the athleticism to get by offensive linemen.
At 6-3, 250 pounds, his quickness is where he makes most offensive linemen have issues and has led him to have 7.5 tackles for loss this year.
Teams have been taking care of Giddins for the most part, but if SMU doesn’t, it could lead to Garrett Gilbert having a long day.
Linebacker Devekeyan “DeDe” Lattimore
The leading tackler of the Bulls defense is an athletic player, who has done just about everything for the Bulls this season. With 69 tackles, five for loss, two sacks, an interception and a fumble return for a touchdown, there isn’t a more important defensive player to watch for SMU than “DeDe.” Even as a bigger linebacker at 6-1, 240, Lattimore does a good job in pass coverage, with three pass breakups.
Defensive back Mark Joyce
Joyce is an undersized safety at 5-10, 190 pounds, but has made a solid impact in both the running and passing game. Joyce has two interceptions on the year, but has come up in run support well, notching 53 tackles including 3.5 for loss. Gilbert will have to watch his throws up the seam and to the slots if Joyce is going to be covering them, he better make sure they’re open.
