TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — The University of South Florida Bulls pulled off one of the biggest wins in program history this weekend, upsetting the University of Florida Gators in Gainesville.

For years, USF has carried the underdog label. But Saturday night, the Bulls became one of only nine teams ever to beat Florida inside Ben Hill Griffin Stadium, known as “The Swamp.”

Students who made the trip from Tampa to Gainesville said the atmosphere was unforgettable.

“You grow up and that’s like a Cathedral of college football… everyone was counting us out… it was legendary,” said sophomore Dylan Lewis, a sports marketing major.

“It’s insane, I don’t even know how to describe it,” added sophomore Owen Swatko, who traveled to the game with Lewis.

Back on campus, the celebration continues. Sophomore Tabitha Barr-Strother said she couldn’t wait to call her family, longtime Gators fans, to brag.

“I got to call everyone and say, yeah, we beat y’all,” Barr-Strother laughed.

For many, the win feels like the start of something bigger. Swatko said the culture around USF football is changing, and the excitement will only grow once the school’s new on-campus stadium is built.

Veteran USF broadcaster and writer Joey Johnston said this victory stands apart.

“Unbelievable. To go to the Swamp and win as a USF Bull… people dream of a day like this,” Johnston said. “What makes this different than all the big wins USF has had is this was the Florida Gators at the Swamp. And you cannot underestimate that.”

The Bulls are now ranked No. 18 in the latest AP Top 25 poll. For a program that’s been fighting for respect, students said this win is proof USF belongs on the national stage.