Temple University Athletics
OWLS OPEN SEASON WITH KEYSTONE CLASH AT PENN STATE
8.25.03 | Football
Wallace and Paterno are two of just four coaches to be named an American Football Coaches Association Coach of the Year three times or more.
Temple had its third consecutive four-win season under Wallace in 2002, posting a 4-8 mark and 2-5 league record to finish tied for sixth in the Big East Conference. Seven of the Owls' eight losses came against teams that ended their seasons by playing in bowl games. Last season, the defense once again paved the way, finishing 18th nationally in total defense, allowing 315.67 yards per game to become one of just eight Division I-A programs to finish in the top 20 in total defense in 2001 and 2002. The Cherry & White also led the Big East and ranked 15th in rush defense (108.33 ypg.). Temple returns 39 letterwinners (16 offense, 20 defense, three specialists) and 10 starters (six offense, four defense).
Penn State posted a 9-4 record in 2002 and concluded the season ranked 16th by the Associated Press and 15th by the coaches. All four of PSU's losses were by a touchdown or less, with two coming in overtime. The Nittany Lions concluded their season with a 13-9 loss to Auburn in the Capital One Bowl. Penn State returns 36 lettermen, including 11 starters (five offense, six defense).
The Owls are scheduled to depart for State College at approximately 9:30 a.m. on Friday via Stout's Motorcoach and will return to Philadelphia via Stout's Motorcoach immediately following the game.
