Charlotte vs South Florida Picks and Predictions for Friday, October 3, 2025

By: David Anicetti Published 09/28/2025, 09:03 PM ET

The Charlotte 49ers visit the South Florida Bulls on Friday at Raymond James Stadium, with the kickoff at 7:00 PM ET on ESPN2. Charlotte lost 28–17 to Rice in its last game and is 1–3 overall, 0–1 in the American, and at the bottom of the standings. South Florida is 3–1 overall and starts league play after a 63–14 win over South Carolina State. Score a touchdown with our free college football picks.

Charlotte Preview

Charlotte has relied on quarterback Conner Harrell, who has thrown for 737 yards with four touchdowns and two interceptions. He has been accurate, but protection has been a problem, with eight sacks allowed. Receiver E. Jai Mason is the main playmaker with 20 catches for 308 yards and three scores, giving the 49ers a needed deep threat.

The running game has been a weak spot with just 353 yards on 132 carries, only 2.7 yards per carry. Rod Gainey Jr. leads the team with 145 rushing yards and one touchdown. On defense, Shay Taylor has 26 tackles, while Reid Williford has two sacks. Charlotte’s defense must find a way to slow South Florida’s speed and limit big plays.

South Florida Preview

Quarterback Byrum Brown leads South Florida with 983 yards passing, seven touchdowns, and only two interceptions. Brown adds yards on the ground (120 yards rushing) and keeps defenses guessing. Receiver Chas Nimrod has been the top target with 14 catches for 367 yards and two scores, averaging over 26 yards per catch.

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The Bulls’ run game has spread the work, with six rushing touchdowns across several backs. Alvon Isaac and Sam Franklin have handled most of the carries, while kicker Nico Gramatica has been steady with seven made field goals, including one from 52 yards. On defense, linebacker Mac Harris has 36 tackles and four sacks, and the Bulls already have four interceptions on the year.

Charlotte 49ers vs South Florida Bulls Prediction

South Florida is stronger at quarterback, deeper on offense, and tougher in the trenches. Charlotte has struggled to run the ball and protect the passer, and those issues will show up again on the road. Final Score Prediction: South Florida wins and covers ATS 40–7.