Joiner, Wright power South Florida's ground game in 49-24 win over Southern Miss

Published Sep. 15, 2024 12:03 a.m. ET

Associated Press

HATTIESBURG, Miss. (AP) — Kelley Joiner ran for 117 yards and two touchdowns, Na'Quan Wright also ran for 100-plus yards and South Florida defeated Southern Miss 49-24 on Saturday night.

The Bulls (2-1) totaled 369 yards on the ground. Joiner scored on runs of 43 and 50 yards and his 117 yards came on just 10 carries. Wright scored on a 33-yard run and had 15 carries for 105 yards.

Byrum Brown completed 19 of 29 passes for 193 yards with two touchdowns. He was USF's third-leading rusher with 72 yards.

The Bulls outgained the Golden Eagles (1-2) 562-487 in total yards.

Three Southern Miss quarterbacks combined to go 19-for-33 passing for 397 yards. Tate Rodemaker had two touchdown passes. Tiaquelin Mims had 128 yards receiving on six catches.

After leading 28-21 at halftime, USF clamped down on defense and allowed just one field goal in the middle of the fourth quarter.

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