The Rise of USF and UCF: A New Era in Florida Football
Florida’s traditional “Big 3” football programs—UF, FSU, and Miami—once reigned supreme, dominating not just state-level rivalries but national championships. However, recent struggles have led to their decline, creating opportunities for emerging programs like UCF and USF to rise. UCF, in particular, has solidified its position as a national contender with its undefeated 2017 season, capped by a Fiesta Bowl victory. In contrast, Miami, Florida, and FSU have faced challenges in maintaining their elite status.
Much of this shift stems from changes in recruiting and coaching stability. The “Big 3” have seen a carousel of coaching changes that destabilized their momentum, leading to inconsistent recruiting results. UF, FSU, and Miami have all had moments of brilliance, but they’ve lacked the sustained success that once defined their programs. Meanwhile, UCF and USF, once considered mid-major underdogs, seized the opportunity to rise through savvy recruiting, modern facilities, and strong branding.
UCF’s entry into the Big 12 in 2023 marked a major milestone in the school’s transformation from a fledgling program to a national powerhouse. The university’s investments in facilities, coaching, and branding have reaped significant rewards, with UCF now regularly competing against Power Five schools. USF has also had its moments of glory, including a 2009 upset of FSU and a thrilling overtime win against Miami in 2010. These wins are etched into Florida football history, signaling that the power dynamic in the state is changing.
But this isn’t just about on-field performance. Both UCF and USF have adapted to the digital age, using social media and modern marketing techniques to build large, passionate fan bases. UCF, in particular, has been adept at using its underdog status to cultivate a brand that resonates with both recruits and fans, pushing the program into national prominence.
While the “Big 3” programs still have the resources and prestige to make comebacks, UCF and USF have shown that Florida’s football hierarchy is no longer static. Their success suggests that the future of Florida football could see a more competitive and diversified landscape.
The key question now is whether the “Big 3” can regroup and reclaim their former dominance, or if USF and UCF will continue their upward trajectory, permanently altering Florida’s college football landscape. What do you think—can the Big 3 regain control, or are we witnessing a permanent power shift? Let’s hear your thoughts!
