South Florida football has officially added a home matchup against Kent State, completing the Bulls’ 2026 non‑conference schedule in Brian Hartline’s first season as head coach. The Golden Flashes will visit Raymond James Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 17, marking the first‑ever meeting between the two programs.
A Seven‑Game Home Slate for the Bulls
The addition of Kent State gives USF seven home games in 2026 — the program’s first seven‑game home slate since 2019. The Bulls went a perfect 6‑0 at home last season and will play their final year at Raymond James Stadium in 2026 before moving into their new 35,000‑seat on‑campus stadium in 2027.
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Kent State is coming off a 5‑7 season (4‑4 MAC) under second‑year head coach Mark Carney.
Non‑Conference and Conference Matchups Set the Stage
USF will open its 30th season on Saturday, Sept. 5 against FIU in Tampa. The Bulls will also host Delaware State on Sept. 19 and travel to Bowling Green on Sept. 26 for their lone non‑conference road game.
In American Conference play, South Florida will host Memphis, Tulane, Temple, and UAB, while traveling to Army, FAU, ECU, and UTSA. The full conference schedule will be finalized and released in the coming weeks.
2026 South Florida Football Schedule (Confirmed Games)
- Sat., Sept. 5 — vs. FIU
- Sat., Sept. 19 — vs. Delaware State
- Sat., Sept. 26 — at Bowling Green
- Sat., Oct. 17 — vs. Kent State
Hartline’s Ambition: Compete for the Conference Title
As South Florida enters a new era, Brian Hartline has made it clear he expects the Bulls to compete for — and win — the American Conference in his debut season. With a favorable home schedule, rising roster talent, and a renewed sense of momentum, USF believes 2026 could mark the beginning of a championship run under its new head coach.
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