American Conference Media Days: Hartline Sets Competitive Tone as USF Opens a New Chapter

Competition will decide everything for the University of South Florida football team in 2026. New head coach Brian Hartline made that message clear during American Athletic Conference Media Days. Every player will have the opportunity to earn a role. However, only the best performers will take the field.

Hartline stressed that reputation alone will not determine playing time. Instead, production, consistency, and effort will separate starters from everyone else. His approach reflects the culture he wants to build as he begins his first season leading the Bulls. “The best players will be on the field,” Hartline said.

That statement carried plenty of meaning throughout the day. Hartline wants every position battle to remain competitive. He also expects players to challenge one another throughout fall camp. As a result, the Bulls should enter the season with a roster full of hungry competitors.

Hartline also discussed the differences between his previous stop at Ohio State and his new home at USF. He acknowledged that the two programs stand in very different places historically. Ohio State has built one of college football’s richest traditions over more than 120 years. 

Meanwhile, USF continues building its own identity after roughly three decades of football. Even so, Hartline believes history does not define the future. Instead, he wants to help create a winning tradition in Tampa. Every successful program starts somewhere, and he hopes to write the next chapter for the Bulls.

Although Hartline now leads USF, he still values the relationships he built in Columbus. He said he continues speaking with Ohio State head coach Ryan Day. Those conversations remain important because Day helped shape Hartline’s coaching career.

Hartline spoke highly of his former mentor throughout the session. He admitted he would not stand in his current position without Day’s guidance and support. That appreciation remains obvious as Hartline begins building his own program.

Several players also met with reporters during Media Days. Linebacker Greyson Howard stood out because of both his personality and leadership. Howard carries the nickname “The Pup.” However, Hartline recently challenged him to earn a new title. Instead of remaining “The Pup,” Hartline wants Howard to become “The Big Dog.”

Howard welcomed that challenge with confidence. He understands the linebacker room features plenty of talent. Nevertheless, he has embraced a leadership role among the group. He hopes his experience helps the defense play faster and more confidently throughout the season.

Howard’s college journey has taken several turns. He previously spent time with the Florida Gators and the South Carolina Gamecocks before transferring to USF. Now, he feels completely comfortable in Tampa. He said returning closer to home has made the transition easier. Additionally, he enjoys living in Tampa and appreciates everything the University of South Florida offers. That comfort has helped him focus entirely on football.

Meanwhile, tight end Wyatt Sullivan continues emerging as one of the offense’s leaders. Sullivan has taken ownership of the tight ends room. His teammates respect both his work ethic and his willingness to lead by example. His versatility also makes him valuable within the offense. Sullivan feels equally comfortable blocking in the running game or running routes through the passing attack. That flexibility should give the Bulls plenty of options this fall.

Sullivan also shared his appreciation for mobile quarterbacks. He enjoys playing alongside quarterbacks who extend plays and create opportunities outside the pocket. He expressed tremendous respect for former USF quarterback Byrum Brown and everything  Brown accomplished with the Bulls. At the same time, Sullivan looks forward to working with this season’s quarterbacks. He believes the current group possesses plenty of talent and expects them to move the offense efficiently.

Beyond the interviews, American Athletic Conference Media Days showcased the conference’s growing excitement entering the new season. Every conference member brought representatives to the event. Coaches and student-athletes met with reporters throughout the day. Likewise, media members from across the conference filled the interview areas as they covered every program. The event highlighted the passion surrounding American Conference football. It also gave fans an early look at the personalities who will shape the 2026 season.

For USF, the message remained consistent from beginning to end. Hartline wants competition, accountability, and leadership to define his program. Veterans like Howard and Sullivan have already embraced those expectations. Now, the rest of the roster must follow their example. The Bulls still have work ahead before opening kickoff. However, Hartline believes the foundation has already formed. If his players continue competing every day, USF could take another significant step forward during the 2026 season.