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Bulls have some issues to work out

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By GREGG BECNEL

Tribune correspondent

Published: October 27, 2009

TAMPA - The University of South Florida has some unsettling issues going into Friday night's game against No. 20 West Virginia at Raymond James Stadium.

The defense has taken a step back during the Bulls' two-game losing streak.

Against No. 5 Cincinnati and No. 16 Pittsburgh, USF gave up 75 points and 887 yards (6.3 per play).

"We've given up too many big plays the last two weeks; that's the bottom line," defensive coordinator Joe Tresey said. "That's been our biggest culprit."

Another question is the development of freshman QB B.J. Daniels and the trust coaches have in him. In four games as the starter, Daniels is 39-for 81 (48 percent) for 685 yards, with five touchdowns and six interceptions.

A week after attempting 32 passes against the Bearcats, Daniels threw only eight times against Pitt.

"We have to realize he's a freshman," offensive coordinator Mike Canales said. "You have to continue to work through it, and he'll do that."

ODDS AND ENDS: FS Nate Allen will wear Keeley Dorsey's No. 10 jersey this week. ... Coach Jim Leavitt said USF will continue to rotate running backs. "Will we feature one guy?" Leavitt said. "I don't see that happening right now. I really don't." ... SS Jerrell Young, who broke his arm in Week 1, worked with the first team Tuesday.

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