The last time Dan McCarney’s phone rang this much, he was wrapping up his career with the Cyclones. This time, he was opening his career as defensive coordinator with South Florida as the former ISU head coach help guide his team to a 26-23 overtime win over No. 17 Auburn.

“It felt like no matter what it took to win the game, we would get it done,” said McCarney.

The Bulls needed overtime to claim their first victory of the season. Quarterback Matt Grothe connected with Jessie Hester on a 14-yard touchdown pass to lift South Florida over the Tigers.

McCarney, whose defense held Auburn to only six second half points, said he only managed a few hours of sleep after the game. The defensive coordinator said he spent most of the evening and early morning answering phone calls. The last time he had this many calls was after the Missouri game when the former Cyclone coach finished up his career at ISU, McCarney said.

“There were a lot of people that were really happy for our kids, our program, and our football family,” said McCarney of the Missouri win.

Despite the lack of sleep, McCarney said he was excited about his new team.

“It was a great victory for South Florida,” he said.