North Texas Sellout vs. USF Highlights Group of 5 Football’s CFP Rise

The recent clash between North Texas and the University of South Florida (USF) underscored the rising significance of Group of 5 teams in college football’s evolving landscape. The game held immense importance for both programs, reflecting the transformation brought by the College Football Playoff (CFP) expansion to 12 teams.

Attendance and Historic Moments

This matchup marked a historic moment for North Texas, as it drew the largest crowd in the university’s football history, with 31,386 fans in attendance. The sellout at DATCU Stadium was the first in its history, driven by the excitement surrounding the game.

• Date: October 11, 2025
• Teams: North Texas vs. USF
• Attendance: 31,386
• Significance: First sellout at DATCU Stadium

Game Highlights

North Texas was riding a five-game winning streak, its best start since 1959, and aimed for its first appearance in the AP Top 25. In contrast, USF came in ranked No. 24, having secured victories over teams like Florida and Boise State.

The game was tightly contested at halftime but ultimately ended with a decisive 63-36 victory for USF. Coach Alex Golesh highlighted the importance of the rivalry, remarking, “The reason it’s a sellout is because the Bulls are in town.”

The Impact of CFP Expansion

The CFP expansion has transformed the competitive landscape of college football, offering at least one Group of 5 team a chance to participate. This was a major shift from previous years, where teams like UCF in 2017 and 2018 were unjustly overlooked. Now, conferences can tout a legitimate pathway to the playoffs.

Tim Pernetti, commissioner of the American Conference, emphasized the significance of this opportunity, stating, “Our coaches are recruiting kids, telling them we have an opportunity to play for the national championship.”

Future Outlook for Group of 5 Teams

The competitive nature of the American Conference is evident, with teams like Memphis and Tulane also in the mix. Memphis, currently ranked No. 23 with a perfect record of 6-0, will face Tulane on November 7. Navy, also performing well, will challenge North Texas on November 1.

As the season progresses, the chance for a Group of 5 champion to earn a CFP bid appears promising, provided the teams do not cancel each other out. The rising stature of these programs is crucial for the broader college football narrative, as evidenced by North Texas’ unprecedented crowd and the exciting gameplay showcased.

Conclusion

The ongoing evolution of college football points toward a future where Group of 5 teams like North Texas and USF play a vital role. Their gripping performances and significant followings prove that there is much to celebrate beyond the traditional Power 5 landscape.

As the season unfolds, fans and analysts alike should keep a close watch on the American Conference. The high stakes and thrilling matchups promise to make college football an exciting spectacle in the coming weeks.