In a commanding performance that capped off a historic campaign, the Old Dominion Monarchs defeated the South Florida Bulls 24–10 in the 2025 StaffDNA Cure Bowl, held on December 17 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. The win not only secured Old Dominion’s second bowl victory in program history but also marked the first time the team reached ten wins in a single Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) season—a major milestone for a program still relatively young in the national landscape.
Under the leadership of head coach Ricky Rahne, now in his sixth season at the helm, Old Dominion put together a balanced and determined effort that showcased the growth and maturity of the team. The Monarchs’ defensive dominance was on full display, forcing four interceptions and holding a typically explosive South Florida offense to just 10 points and under 60 rushing yards. The unit was relentless, disrupting drives, stalling momentum, and consistently putting the offense in favorable field positions.
Quarterback Quinn Henicle, starting in only his second collegiate game due to the absence of regular starter Colton Joseph, emerged as the game’s breakout star. Henicle rushed for 107 yards and two touchdowns, including a 51-yard score in the fourth quarter that sealed the victory and energized the Monarchs’ sideline. His dynamic play earned him Most Valuable Player honors, a fitting recognition for an athlete who stepped into the spotlight under pressure and delivered in decisive fashion.
Henicle’s contribution extended beyond his rushing statistics. While his arm was not the primary factor in the win, his passing helped keep South Florida’s defense honest, enabling the Monarchs to maintain a balanced attack. He managed the game with composure, avoided critical mistakes, and made smart decisions when it mattered most.
The game began with Old Dominion striking first, capitalizing on South Florida’s early miscues and methodically building a 10–0 lead. South Florida responded before halftime, tying the game at 10–10 and appearing to gain momentum heading into the locker room. However, the second half belonged entirely to Old Dominion. The defense tightened its grip, led by standout performances from linebacker Jeremy Mack Jr., who recorded a double-digit tackle count, and safety Jerome Carter, who snagged two interceptions. Carter’s efforts helped him break the school’s single-season record for interceptions and further solidified his role as a cornerstone of the Monarchs’ secondary.
Old Dominion’s ability to dominate time of possession and control the tempo in the second half underscored the team’s strategic discipline. Their offensive line provided consistent protection and created openings for Henicle and the running backs to exploit. On the sidelines, Coach Rahne’s calm yet assertive leadership guided the team through a high-stakes environment, reinforcing a culture of focus and execution that has defined the Monarchs’ 2025 season.
South Florida entered the game with a 9–3 record and high hopes, led by head coach Alex Golesh and a fast-paced offense that had lit up scoreboards throughout the year. However, the Bulls were without starting quarterback Byrum Brown, who opted out of the bowl game to prepare for the NFL Draft. His absence, coupled with a determined Old Dominion defense, left the Bulls struggling to find rhythm. While they showed flashes of their regular-season form in the first half, they were ultimately outmatched in the trenches and overwhelmed by Old Dominion’s physicality and defensive scheming.
Despite the loss, South Florida’s season remains a success story, marked by significant improvement and a return to national relevance. Their bowl appearance highlighted a resurgence for the program and set a strong foundation for future campaigns. The Cure Bowl offered a national platform for both programs, and while the outcome favored Old Dominion, the game itself was a testament to the continued growth of mid-major programs in the evolving landscape of college football.
The Cure Bowl, now in its eleventh year, has become a staple of the postseason calendar, traditionally showcasing teams from the Sun Belt and American Athletic Conferences. Beyond the on-field competition, the bowl game serves a charitable mission, raising funds for cancer research and bringing attention to causes beyond the gridiron. This year’s event upheld that tradition, blending competitive football with community impact.
For Old Dominion, the victory represents more than just a trophy. It symbolizes the culmination of years of program development, recruitment, and perseverance. The 2025 season will be remembered as a turning point—a year when the Monarchs not only exceeded expectations but also proved they belong in conversations about the top programs outside the Power Five. As the team looks ahead to the 2026 season, the momentum from this landmark win could serve as a springboard for sustained success and increased national attention.
Old Dominion’s triumph in the 2025 Cure Bowl is not just a historic win—it is a defining moment in the school’s football legacy.
