After losing their first game of the season, the Owls were able to come up with the win today against South Florida, 39-37. This game, similar to last week’s game against Navy, came down to a two-point conversion. Luckily for the Owls, it was a failed attempt by USF that sealed the win for Temple.
Despite the win, graduate quarterback Anthony Russo felt that he could have done better.
“I think I didn’t play as well as I could, but a win is a win”
Russo had two interceptions, but also had four touchdown passes. Russo’s leadership throughout the game helped the rest of the team stay focused. After the game, wide receiver Jadan Blue (R-JR) endorsed his quarterback’s leadership skills:
“When you have confidence in your quarterback, anything can happen on the offensive side.”
Defensively, the Owls needed to bring the same energy coming out of the half, as they trailed 31-26.
After playing against Navy last week, Temple’s defense was put into question. In the first half of the game the secondary was still quiet. Isaiah Graham-Mobley, who had 14 tackles last week against Navy was out for most of the game due to an ankle injury that happened pre-game.
Early in the fourth quarter, defensive end Arnold Ebiketie (R-JR) recovered a Kelly Joiner fumble for a touchdown that gave Temple’s defense the fire that they needed. After losing defensive-end Quincy Roche last season, Ebitketie’s teammates have nothing but trust in his ability to excel in his position.
“We’ve always believed in AK,” says Blue, “He is going to continue to be disruptive on the defensive line.”
As the game came down to a two point conversion this week, the Owls were now on defense. Redshirt senior Amir Tyler made the critical stop to seal the win for Temple.
After trailing for most of the game, the Owl’s refused to give up which led them to a win. Head coach Rod Carey is proud of his team’s fight.
“No disrespect to last year’s team, but this team hangs in there. They don’t flinch.”
The Owls play their next game on the road at Memphis. Kickoff is set for 12pm next Saturday on ESPN+.
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