Sport: Football Category: Scores & Results

USF defense guides Bulls to win over FIU in Hartline debut

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 6, 2026, 4:30 AM

Last updated Sep 6, 2026

USF defense guides Bulls to win over FIU in Hartline debut

Summary

Brian Hartline earned a victory in his head coaching debut Saturday night as USF defeated FIU 19-9 at Raymond James Stadium. The Bulls relied on a defensive performance that forced three turnovers and secured four fourth-down stops to maintain a lead. Offensively, USF totaled 208 yards on 56 plays, relying on a run-heavy approach featuring D.J. Crowther and Jason Collins Jr. Crowther scored the team's lone touchdown, while quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr. completed 11 of 18 passes for 100 yards in his first start for the program. A third-quarter interception by Tayvion Beasley proved to be the game's turning point, setting up the Bulls with favorable field position. Hartline noted that while the offense must improve its ability to sustain drives, he was satisfied with the team's ability to secure the season-opening win.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•USF defeated FIU 19-9 at Raymond James Stadium on Saturday.
•The USF defense recorded three turnovers and four fourth-down stops.
•D.J. Crowther recorded 42 rushing yards and one touchdown in his debut.
•Quarterback Michael Van Buren Jr. finished 11 of 18 for 100 yards.
•Tayvion Beasley's third-quarter interception set up a crucial scoring drive.

Latest Updates

4:30 AMYahoo Sports — USF’s defense lifts Bulls to win over FIU in Brian Hartline’s debut

What they're saying

"
USF’s defense dictated the game and aided the offense as the Bulls bested Florida International, 19-9, in Brian Hartline’s head coaching debut Saturday at Raymond James Stadium. The difference a year — or more accurately, a massive roster and staff overhaul — can make was clear.
— Yahoo Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

Football