Temple University Athletics
Cherry Defeats White, 21-6, in Spring Football Scrimmage
4.19.08 | Football
April 19, 2008
AMBLER, Pa. - Temple football concluded its 2008 spring season on Saturday as Cherry beat White, 21-6, in the team's annual intra-squad scrimmage at the Ambler Sports Complex before 3,804 fans.
"We have a lot of guys right now that we're trying to force into roles, and when you play cherry versus white, you're playing a lot of guys who either wouldn't get into a game or are playing a lot more than they would," head coach Al Golden said. "I told the guys all week that's what this game is all about--who can perform when the lights go on. I think we learned a lot today about that."
TE Steve Maneri put Cherry on the scoreboard on the opening drive with an eight-yard touchdown pass from QB Vaughn Charlton. DE Brian Sanford recovered a fumble in the end zone to give White its only points on the day. CB Evan Cooper, Jr., returned an extra point attempt for two points to close out the first quarter, giving Cherry an 8-6 lead. Both teams were scoreless in the second quarter.
"We started out a little sloppy in the first half, but we kept going," Charlton said. "At halftime we re-organized and came back in the second half and did pretty well."
Midway through the third quarter, Charlton connected with WR Bruce Francis on a 75-yard touchdown pass. The Cherry closed out the quarter with its final score, a one-yard run by Charlton. PK Jake Brownell's extra point attempt was blocked by Daryl Robinson, who saw his first action at defensive back.
Following each day of spring practice, the coaching staff awarded a "Player of the Day" for the offense, defense, and special teams. Today's honorees were WR Jason Harper (offense), LB Alex Joseph and DT Terrance Knighton (defense), and DB Daryl Robinson (special teams).
Overall, WR Marquise Liverpool led Cherry in rushing with 26 yards on 15 carries. WR Josh Hutchison followed with 12 yards on one rush. WR Jason Harper had 58 yards on three catches. Maneri followed with 45 yards on three receptions. Charlton went 13-of-28 for 209 yards and two touchdowns. Defensively, DB Wilbert Brinson and LB Wallace Bates recorded eight tackles each. Bates also had a game-high three sacks and a game-high four TFL. LB Amara Kamara followed with seven solo takedowns.
For the White, FB Lamar McPherson was the leading rusher with 37 yards on eight carries. Freshman RB Jared Williams followed with four yards on eight carries. TE Matt Balasavage led the receiving corps with 14 yards on three catches. WR Dy'Onne Crudup followed with 74 yards on two receptions. At quarterback, Colin Clancy went 8-of-20 for 22 yards, while starter Chester Stewart was 7-of-15 for 123 yards and an interception. Defensively, LB Alex Joseph had a game-high 11 tackles, while Elijah "Peanut" Joseph followed with eight tackles.
At halftime, five players were recognized as the team's annual spring award winners. Junior DE Brian Sanford earned the Mark Bresani Award for spirit and enthusiasm. Redshirt junior LB Jordan Martin was awarded the Gavin White Local 215 Award, presented to the most improved non-scholarship player. Sophomore DE Elijah "Peanut" Joseph was the most improved defensive player, while junior TB/WR Jason Harper earned most improved offensive player accolades. Junior LB Alex Joseph was awarded the inaugural most improved special teams player honor.
Temple opens the 2008 season at Army on Friday, August 29. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. before a national television audience on ESPNU or ESPN Classic. The Owls host Connecticut on Sept. 6 at Lincoln Financial Field in their home opener.
Temple football season tickets are on sale now for as low as $75, and can be purchased by calling the Temple Ticket Office at 215-204-8499. Fans are encouraged to visit www.OwlsTix.com for full season ticket pricing information.
