Mitchell gives USF deep threat

Posted Oct 13, 2009 by Gregg Becnel

Updated Oct 13, 2009 at 06:59 PM

Cincinnati’s quick-strike offense might get more publicity, but with deep-threat WR Carlton Mitchell, the University of South Florida also has the ability to score quickly.

The junior from Gaither already has four catches of 50 yards or more this season, including a career-long 85-yarder that went for a touchdown against Syracuse. Mitchell already holds the school record for most plays of 50 yards or more with seven.

“He is fast, he is tall and he is definitely a threat,” QB B.J. Daniels said. “He helps stretch out the defense and he is a big factor in our offense.”

Mitchell, who has 21 receptions for 377 yards and three touchdowns, needs just 205 yards to become USF’s career leader in receiving yards.

“He is much more focused and he is more dependable than he has been in the past,” USF coach Jim Leavitt said.

SOMETHING’S GOTTA GIVE: With nine fumble recoveries and seven interceptions, USF is No. 7 in the country in turnovers gained (16), while Cincinnati is No. 1 in turnovers lost (3). The Bearcats’ three turnovers have been interceptions. In 134 rushing attempts, Cincinnati has fumbled just two times but recovered each one. 

“Turnovers are always a big key,” Leavitt said. “You’ve got to protect the football and you’ve got to try to get the ball. I think that’s going to be the biggest thing.”   

ODDS AND ENDS: USF will hold a pep rally on campus at the Marshall Center Amphitheater Wednesday at noon. … Captains for this week’s game are injured QB Matt Grothe, RB Mo Plancher, DE George Selvie, LB Kion Wilson and FS Nate Allen. … TE Andreas Shields had his left eye patched after being poked in the eye.