End of third: USF 27, Cincinnati 17

Posted Oct 22, 2011 by Adam Adkins

Updated Oct 22, 2011 at 02:49 PM

USF will take a 10-point lead into the final quarter against Cincinnati after the offense produced three scoring drives in the third quarter to open up a 27-17 lead at Raymond James Stadium.

USF marched 88 yards on its opening drive of the second half to go up 17-10. BJ Daniels was 4-for-5 passing for 51 yards on the drive, which was capped by a 1-yard run by Demetris Murray, who also converted on a 4th and inches play to keep the drive alive.

However, Cincinnati came right back with an 80-yard scoring drive to tie the game at 127. One play after Zach Collaros converted a key third down with a 39-yard pass play to Kenbrell Thompkins, the Bearcats quarterback hit tight end Adrien Robinson on a 20-yard scoring pass.

USF went back in front, 20-17, at the 3:03 mark when Maikon Bonani made a 40-yard field goal, but it was the third time today the Bulls offense had to settle for a field goal try after getting into the red zone.

The Bulls defense then forced a three-and-out, and Victor Marc provided a 40-yard punt return down the Cincinnati 17 to put USF back in prime scoring position. Two plays later, Daniels found tight end Andreas Shields wide open over the middle for a 17-yard score to give the Bulls their largest lead of the day.

Cincinnati, though, is driving and will begin the fourth quarter with a first down at the USF 10. The drive has been aided by consecutive personal foul calls on the USF defense.