A Prestigious Watch List
The Paul Hornung Award, established in 2010 by the Louisville Sports Commission, celebrates the most versatile player in college football each season. Being placed on its preseason watch list is a rare honor that puts a athlete on the radar of national voters and fans alike.
Alvon Isaac, a junior running back for the South Florida Bulls, brings a blend of rushing, receiving and special‑teams prowess that aligns perfectly with the award’s criteria. In the 2025 campaign he amassed 350 rushing yards on 73 carries, added 14 receptions for 141 yards and topped the team in punt and kickoff returns.
A Program at a Crossroads
The Bulls are entering their 30th season of football, a milestone that coincides with a transition from Raymond James Stadium to a new on‑campus venue. Under first‑year head coach Brian Hartline, the team returns four starters from a 9‑4 record and welcomes a fresh wave of talent eager to build on that foundation.
Isaac’s versatility will be crucial as the Bulls open the 2026 season against FIU on September 5 at 7 p.m. The matchup not only marks the start of a new chapter for the program but also provides a early test for the player who could shape the team’s identity moving forward.
Beyond the field, the recognition reflects the growing visibility of South Florida athletics and the broader ambition to compete at the highest level of collegiate sport. As the season unfolds, Isaac’s performance will be closely watched by analysts, scouts and fans who see in him a potential catalyst for future success.