Kick off today at 5 PM ET as the Old Dominion Monarchs (9-3) take on the South Florida Bulls (9-3) in the StaffDNA Cure Bowl. Both teams seek their tenth victory in this matchup that matters far beyond the scoreboard. The Camping World Stadium in Orlando will host a game dedicated to raising awareness and funds in the fight against cancer.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Kickoff: December 17, 2025 at 5:00 PM ET at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida
- Teams: Old Dominion Monarchs (9-3, Sun Belt Conference 6-2) vs South Florida Bulls (9-3, American Conference 6-2)
- Spread: South Florida favored by 3 points according to BetMGM
- Broadcast: ESPN will televise the game, with both teams chasing their first 10-win season of the year
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The Old Dominion Monarchs and South Florida Bulls arrive at Camping World Stadium with identical 9-3 records. Both teams finished conference play with 6-2 marks in their respective conferences. The Monarchs compete in the Sun Belt Conference East Division, while the Bulls represent the American Athletic Conference. This bowl game represents an opportunity for either team to reach double digits in wins, a milestone that matters deeply in college football.
The Cure Bowl isn’t just another postseason game. Played annually in December in Orlando, this NCAA Division I FCS football bowl is televised nationally on ESPN. The game raises awareness and critical funds in the battle against cancer. For both the Monarchs and Bulls, victory tonight means more than just adding another win to their resumes.
Old Dominion Seeks to Build on Season Momentum
| Team Stat | Old Dominion (ODU) | South Florida (USF) |
| Regular Season Record | 9-3 | 9-3 |
| Conference Record | 6-2 (Sun Belt) | 6-2 (American) |
| Bowl Eligibility | First bowl appearance of season | First bowl appearance of season |
| Recent Form | Looking to extend winning streak | Coming off 52-3 victory over Rice |
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The Old Dominion Monarchs enter the Cure Bowl with momentum built throughout their 9-3 campaign. Coach Ricky Rahne’s squad finished 6-2 in Sun Belt Conference play. The Monarchs have shown competitive strength all season and arrive in Orlando hungry for that elusive tenth victory. Their Sun Belt Conference showing demonstrates consistent play against quality competition.
Meanwhile, the South Florida Bulls demonstrated dominant form in their final regular season game. The Bulls crushed Rice 52-3 just days ago, showing their offensive firepower heading into tonight’s matchup. Coach Alex Golesh’s offense has been prolific throughout the season, averaging 43 points per game. This American Conference team looks to transform that offensive success into a bowl victory.
Key Storylines and Matchup Intrigue
South Florida enters as the favored team, with oddsmakers installing the Bulls as 3-point favorites. This Vegas line reflects confidence in USF‘s explosive offensive system against the Monarchs‘ defense. The Bulls have one of the most dynamic offenses in their conference with 43 points per game, creating challenges for opposing defenses.
For Old Dominion, success tonight means containing South Florida‘s high-octane attack. The Monarchs defense will need to execute Coach Rahne‘s game plan effectively. Both teams seek their first 10-win season, adding urgency to every play. Neither team enters as underdogs in terms of motivation or desire to reach the double-digit win milestone.
The Cure Bowl’s Greater Mission Beyond the Field
The Cure Bowl distinguishes itself from other college football bowl games through its dedication to cancer awareness and fundraising. This eleventh annual Cure Bowl brings together two universities united in a cause larger than football. Both the Old Dominion Monarchs and South Florida Bulls recognize that tonight’s game supports vital cancer research and awareness initiatives.
Playing in Orlando at Camping World Stadium provides a neutral venue where both teams can showcase their talents. The atmosphere of a December bowl game combined with the charitable mission creates a unique environment in college football. This is why the Cure Bowl stands apart as more than just another postseason matchup.
What Does Victory Mean for Old Dominion and South Florida Tonight?
A win for the Old Dominion Monarchs would cap a successful 9-win regular season with a tenth victory, marking a significant achievement. For the Monarchs, bowl success validates their Sun Belt Conference campaign and sends a message about the program’s trajectory heading into the offseason. Coach Rahne’s team will look to prove they belong among the nation’s best college football programs.
The South Florida Bulls seek similar validation. A victory would complement their dominant offensive season with postseason success. The Bulls‘ hopes of a 10-win season rest on tonight’s performance. With their impressive 43 points per game average, USF enters as the betting favorite but faces a Monarchs team standing ready to spoil those plans in Orlando.
Watch the Game Trailer
Sources
- ESPN – Live coverage and official game information
- USA Today Sportsbook Wire – Game predictions and odds data
- Underdog Dynasty – Bowl game preview and analysis
Annabelle Ink is a gaming journalist and lifelong gamer who lives and breathes video game culture. From console releases to esports tournaments, this dedicated journalist brings insider knowledge and genuine enthusiasm to every review and feature. Her expertise spans multiple gaming platforms, helping readers discover their next favorite game while staying connected to the pulse of the gaming industry.