Sources have stated that Head Coach Brian Hartline and the University of South Florida (USF) football team have confirmed their starting quarterback for the 2026 season, with former LSU Tiger Michael Van Buren Jr. set to take the QB1 role into Game No. 1 against Florida International on Saturday, September 5.
Van Buren Jr., a Maryland native, has started 12 games across 17 career appearances. He finished the 2025 season with the Bayou Bengals having thrown for more than 1,000 yards and eight touchdowns.
Upon arriving at USF this offseason, Van Buren Jr. battled fellow SEC transfer Luke Kromenhoek for the starting job. Kromenhoek also entered camp with hopes of earning the position following his successful run with the Bulls’ now-former quarterback, Byrum Brown.
The announcement provides clarity for the remainder of fall camp, establishing Van Buren Jr. as the player who will take the reins under center when the Bulls open the 2026 campaign.
Van Buren Jr.’s first start will come against FIU when the Panthers travel to Tampa on Saturday, September 5. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET, with the game streaming live on ESPN+.
The opener will mark the beginning of USF’s 30th football season and the program’s final season at Raymond James Stadium. The Bulls are currently building an all-new on-campus stadium, which is scheduled to open in 2027.
