The spirits were high today at Edberg-Olsen Hall today as over the weekend the Temple Owls had themselves quite a game. The Owls (6-4, 5-1) defeated the Houston Cougars (7-3, 4-2) by a score of 59-49.
It was a game where RB Ryquell Armstead set a conference record with six touchdowns and WR Ventell Bryant became Temple’s all-time leading receiver (2,319 yards). But most importantly, the team went 1-0 and got their sixth win of the season becoming bowl eligible for the fifth straight season.
Also contributing to the rushing attack was Rob Ritrovato who added 91 yards and a touchdown. DT Freddie Booth-Lloyd also got in on the action with his third touchdown of the season in as many carries. As for Ventell Bryant, along with his receiving yards record, he is only two catches away from being Temple’s all-time receptions leader. QB Anthony Russo added 217 yards passing on 14 completions. But it wasn’t at all about the passing game because Houston could not stop the running game.
Defensively, the Owls had some issues again containing a top tier QB, this week it was D’Eriq King. He completed 28 of 46 passes for 322 yards, five touchdowns and one interception (Delvon Randall). King also added 125 rushing yards on 19 carries including a touchdown. Shaun Bradley led the way with 10 total tackles. Michael Dogbe and Zach Mesday each added a sack.
After the game, Ryquell Armstead was asked to be interviewed and he refused to unless he was allowed to bring in his offensive line who made it all possible. “That speaks to the kind of person and the kind of teammate Ryquell Armstead is,” Head Coach Geoff Collins said.
This week, the Owls return home for one final home game for the seniors on the team. One last time to wear the cherry and white at Lincoln Financial Field. The senior class needs one more victory to become the winningest class in program history (34 wins). The Owls will be facing the USF Bulls (7-3, 3-3). USF started out hot winning their first seven games, but since then, have dropped their last three to Houston, Tulane and Cincinnati.
This Saturday’s contest will be the fifth meeting between the two teams. The home team has won each of the first four games, splitting the series at two apiece.
The game is set to kick off from Lincoln Financial Field, Saturday at noon. The game will be broadcasted on ESPNews and you can listen in on WPHT 1210AM radio. You can also listen in to student radio WHIP accessible through the iHeart Radio app and listen to the SportsDesk’s very own Vince Coll analyze the game.
Make sure to follow the SportsDesk on Twitter @TU_SportsDesk for coverage leading up to game day.
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