South Florida-Western Kentucky: Bulls Will Squash Hilltoppers, Here's Why

The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers don't stand much of a chance against the University of South Florida foot-Bulls Saturday night at their home in Bowling Green, Ky.

Really, they don't.

First, the Hilltoppers are recovering from a total beat down in Knoxville last week.

They were a total sacrificial lamb for Lane Kiffin and his pappy, Monte. Indeed, Monte's defense looked akin to his old Buccaneer teams. It did what it was expected to do and held Western to an anemic 83 yards total offense in the 63-7 slaughter.

Saturday night, USF defensive coordinator Joe Tresey gets his chance.

When told he was going to be compared to Monte Kiffin, Tresey said sarcastically: "Thanks!"

Indeed, Tresey makes around $170,000 at his job, Kiffin makes more than $1 million.

Still, Tresey's biggest problem is how to find playing time for all his talented defensive ends. He knows they all want a piece of the Hilltoppers, including prize recruit Ryne Giddins of Tampa, who didn't see action in the opener but may get into this game.

No doubt, USF will again have the ability to see some of its younger players in action. The Bulls substituted early and often against Wofford and will do the same in this second game.

USF quarterback Matt Grothe will become the Big East's all-time leader in total offense unless something goes drastically wrong. Grothe needs less than 100 yards and he could get that in the first half.

Look for head coach Jim Leavitt to give Mo Plancher the ball a bunch. Plancher was solid against Wofford and should get an expanded number of carries against the Hilltoppers.

Plancher was complemented by freshman speedster Lindsey Lamar, the bottle rocket of a smallish back from Tampa's Hillsborough High. Look for Lamar to produce some big  plays in this game.

In short, this is the second of three "preseason" games for the Bulls, if you will.

Wofford offered minimal resistance. Western Kentucky is in over its head, but still marks its debut into the FBS ranks. It is the newest member of the 120-team fraternity.

Oh yes, and if USF can get past this road trip, Charleston Southern visits Tampa next week.

USF's job in this second game: Stay basic, work the fundamentals, improve, and get game experience for the new guys.

Sounds easy enough.