The preliminaries are over for USF, and it's time to rock 'n roll with the Bulls' American Conference opener against Charlotte.
It's Friday night under the lights at Raymond James Stadium before a national TV audience via ESPN2. The Bulls came through the opening three-game gauntlet against ranked teams with a 2-1 record that may have surprised everyone except those in USF's locker room.
The Bulls then dined on an FCS cupcake from South Carolina State, 63-14, to wrap up the non-conference portion of their schedule. From here on out, USF plays conference games. Charlotte is in a complete rebuild under first-year coach Tim Albin. He comes to the 49ers from Ohio University, where he led the Bobcats to the MAC championship last season.
Last year, the Bulls started 0-2 in the conference with losses against Tulane and Memphis. Things are looking good for a better start this time. Here's what you need to know.
How to watch Charlotte vs. USF in Week 5.
The matchup between the 49ers and Bulls will be broadcast on ESPN2.
Date: Friday, October 3
Time: 7 p.m.
Venue: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa
How to watch: ESPN2.
Charlotte record: 1-3 overall, 0-1 in American Conference play.
USF record: 3-1 overall, 0-0 in the conference.
What broadcast crew is calling the game?
Courtney Lyle (P-by-P), Rene Ingoglia (Analyst), and Marilyn Payne (Sideline).
What are the betting odds for Charlotte vs. USF?
FanDuel Sportsbook favors the Bulls by 27.5 points. The over-under line is 54.5 points. ESPN's matchup predictor gives the Bulls a 96.3 percent chance of winning.
Series history between Charlotte and USF
The series started in 2023, and the Bulls have won both games. They beat the 49ers 48-14 in 2023 and 59-24 last season. Charlotte fired head coach Biff Poggi after the 2024 game.
What is the weather forecast for the Charlotte vs. USF game?
The game time temperature forecast is 80 degrees with 69 percent humidity. Winds could reach 17 miles per hour, and there is a 27 percent chance of a passing shower.