USF QB Byrum Brown to Serve as a Coach for Bowl Game, Won't Play amid Transfer Rumors

USF's CEO of Athletics, Rob Higgins, announced Wednesday that quarterback Byrum Brown won't play in the Cure Bowl but will operate as a coach amid speculation that he might follow Alex Golesh to Auburn.

"Bulls Nation, we wanted to share that Coach Brian Hartline and I continue to have great conversations with Byrum Brown and his family about his future at USF," Higgins wrote in a social media post. "In the spirit of transparency and based off the recent coaching transition here, we mutually determined with Byrum that it's best for him to not play in next week's Cure Bowl. This quick determination means that Gaston Moore is able to fully prepare and make the well-deserved start in his final collegiate game. Byrum continues to attend every team activity/practice and has been incredible in supporting his teammates as he always is. So much so, that we've asked Byrum to serve as a coach in the Cure Bowl to help us get our tenth win, which we're excited to share he's graciously agreed to do! We can't wait to finish this season strong and together, while also supporting (Coach) Byrum Brown and his family! Go Bulls!"

Golesh, USF's former head coach, was hired at Auburn this offseason and replaced by Hartline, the former offensive coordinator at Ohio State.

As for Brown, the 21-year-old threw for 3,158 yards, 28 touchdowns and seven interceptions, completing 66.3 percent of his passes. He also rushed for 1,008 yards and 14 touchdowns, leading USF to a 9-3 record and a berth in the Cure Bowl against Old Dominion.