Michael Van Buren Jr., threw a touchdown pass, backup Luke Kromenhoek came in to run for a score and South Florida frustrated Kent State early and pulled away for a 29-2 win on Saturday night.
In the first half, the Golden Flashes drove 77 yards to the USF 3 before getting stuffed on fourth and 2. The next play was a safety, and after the ensuing free kick the Golden Flashes made it to the USF 1.
Dru DeShields tried a sneak on third and goal but lost the ball. C.J. Hicks came around the edge and scooped it up, going 96 yards for a touchdown, tying the school record set by Kayvon Webster in 2011 against Notre Dame.
It was 10-2 at the half for the Bulls (5-2) even though the Golden Flashes (2-5) had more than an 11-minute advantage in time of possession.
The offensive touchdowns came in the second half as the Bulls took control.
Kromenhoek scored on a 1-yard plunge to cap a 15-play, 73-yard drive. Cameron Seldon’s 36-yard touchdown reception ended a five-play, 65-yard drive.
Kent State had 31 yards of offense in the second half and gave up the ball on downs two more times. Another possession ended with a USF safety.
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