Tenacious defensive play was the theme throughout the game for the Temple squad. The Owls
traveled to College Park, Maryland to take on the Terps looking to add their first tally in the win
column on the year.
In the first half, Temple laid into the rushing front from the dangerous Maryland offense
responsible for over 400 yards rushing in their last game. The fast start was an important factor
in Temple’s game plan all week. The first score came from a well executed fake punt by
Temple. A 36-yard pass by Todd Centeio connected to Freddie Johnson for his first career touchdown.
Redshirt freshman Anthony Russo, who made his first career collegiate start behind center, talked on the importance of Coach Collins message to the team.
”That was something we harped on all week, the slow starts we’ve been having hurt us so being able to get 14 points up on the board before they had any helped us tremendously.”
Miscommunication led to a pick six by Maryland’s Darnell Savage to cut the Owl lead within a possession. Temple didn’t allow the interception to startle them, following it up with a 1-yard touchdown score by Rob Ritrovato. Settling in after halftime, the next scoring possession saw Anthony Russo connect to Kenny Yeboah for a 47-yard score to extend the lead 28-7.
A 27-yard return off a blocked punt by Maryland’s Jesse Aniebonam gave the Terps some late
life in the 3rd quarter, cutting into the lead 28-14.
With 4 minutes left in the game, Maryland was able to make their way down the field quickly to Temples own 22. The Owls defense adjusted to the late game fast pace with a game sealing interception taken 76 yards to the endzone by Shaun Bradley.
Maryland was unable to score any offensive touchdowns in the contest as Temple defense was too much for them to adjust to. Graduate Michael Dogbe led the game in tackles with seven, 2.5 coming from sacks.
After the game, he reflected on his clubs stellar defensive play. “Just knowing Temple history of having a great D-line, we just wanted to go back to that.”
Ryquell Armstead lead all rushers with 26 carries for 118 yards, his second straight 100-yard
rushing game. That also marked the most carries by a running back in the Coach Collins era.
The Owls improve their record on the year to 1-2. Their next matchup is set for Thursday at
home when they host University of Tulsa. Gametime for matchup is set for 7:30.
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