Temple University announced the firing of Head Coach Stan Drayton on Sunday, less than twenty-four hours after the Owls had secured a narrow win 18-15 win over Florida Atlantic University. Drayton left the University of Texas at Austin and was hired here on December 15th, 2021, in hopes of putting Temple Football on the right path. However, he leaves with a 9-25 overall record and a 4-18 in Conference Play over three seasons.
Drayton brought his daughter into the press conference after the win against Florida Atlantic which puzzled a lot of people.
Senior linebacker DJ Woodbury DJ Woodbury described Drayton as a father figure. “I remember when I lost my father, and being in college, he just kept telling me that the whole week, like I’m here for you, and he’s like a father figure to me.
The firing of head coach Stan Drayton has been a tough moment for the team. Temple players appreciate his impact that goes beyond the field.
Senior tight end James Della Pesca James Della Pesca shared how the team gathered in Drayton’s office to thank him for his guidance. “We just kind of said goodbye and said how much we appreciate him and what he’s done,” said Della Pesca.
Drayton worked to rebuild Temple’s football program, but the outcomes fell short. Freshman Charlie Halikman recognized his efforts, saying, “He had a good plan… it just couldn’t go his way. Whatever they tried, the results weren’t showing.”
Temple’s President, John Fry, criticized the costs and impact of college football programs while he was president at Drexel. Fry supported the Drexel’s decision to drop football. This has raised questions about whether Temple could consider a similar move. However, some Temple students are opposed to the idea and don’t want football to go away.
“I don’t agree with that because I, even though we lose a lot, I do like attending the football games, the ones we do win. So cutting it, I don’t think that’s a good idea at all,” said December Witherspoon, junior.
Looking ahead, Temple’s interim coach, Defensive Coordinator Everett Withers will lead the team for the remainder of the season. Students and fans hope the next head coach can turn the program around. Nick Parr, Assistant Director at WHIP Radio, said, “Getting six wins or a bowl game would be a good step forward.”
Temple football is currently 3-7, with two games left in the season. The team is looking to finish the year strong despite the challenges.
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