October 16, 2025
Offensive linemen Connor McLaughlin and Thomas Shrader grew up in the Tampa Bay area, but left to pursue their college-football dreams. Now they have returned with the USF Bulls, successfully plugging into starting spots on an offensive unit that's off to a record-setting pace.
Homecoming?
It will be a celebratory mood for everyone Saturday night when the No. 19-ranked Bulls (5-1, 2-0 American Conference) host the Florida Atlantic Owls (3-3, 2-1) at Raymond James Stadium. But the Homecoming tradition has special meaning this season for McLaughlin and Shrader.
"I've enjoyed being here so much, being close to family and being part of a great team like this,'' said Shrader (6-foot-5, 305 pounds), the left guard, the former Venice High School standout who played at Florida State and Appalachian State before joining the Bulls for his final college season.