Simon Says... Make Every Play Count

When Evan Simon made the decision to transfer to Temple University, it wasn't just a fresh start for him; it was an opportunity to reshape his collegiate career. The Lancaster, Pennsylvania, native had already left his mark at Rutgers, but after facing challenges as a backup quarterback, Simon came to Temple with a chip on his shoulder. He was eager to make an impact in the Cherry & White, and with determination, leadership, and an unwavering desire to succeed, this defined his path to Temple's starting position.

Evan Simon's athletic journey began on the soccer field, where he played for most of his childhood. However, his coach noticed his height and athleticism and suggested he give football a try. Though soccer had been his sole focus, Simon decided to take the leap. It wasn't until a sixth-grade flag football game that he first recognized his potential on the football field, realizing this was something he could excel at. The transition from soccer to football came naturally, but Simon had a lot of ground to make up compared to teammates who had been playing the sport since they were kids.

Receiving eight Division l offers out of high school, Simon decided to play at Rutgers University originally. Over the course of three seasons as a Scarlett Knight, he played 17 games and showcased his potential as a reliable quarterback. In six games during his freshman season, Simon completed 16 of 28 passes (57.1%) for 145 yards. He showed up and showed out in a difficult game against No. 11 Ohio State at the time, completing all five of his throwing attempts for 27 yards. Against Maryland, Simon finished with seven completions for 86 yards and led two touchdown drives.

Simon was an important asset in 2022, his sophomore season, playing in nine games with two starts. He threw four touchdown passes and successfully completed 79 of 137 pass attempts (57.7%) for 777 yards. He made his first start at quarterback and completed nine passes in a victory over Temple, one of his best games. Simon also had strong outcomes against elite opponents, throwing for a season-high 300 yards and a touchdown in a difficult game against Iowa, and completing all five of his attempts against No. 11 Penn State.

There are obstacles in every athlete's path, and Simon's was no exception. After three years of being in the shadows, Simon hit the transfer portal and landed on 10th and Diamond. Even when Simon proved himself at Rutgers, he was frequently buried behind a starter who was unpredictable. He didn't get the playing time he thought he deserved, even once he got his chance. "When QB1 got hurt, I came in and threw a touchdown pass, but I still didn't get the playing time I was hoping for," Simon reflects. "That lack of respect really motivated me. It was the driving force behind my decision to transfer. I knew I had something to prove."

However, it wasn't an easy journey to become the Owls' starting quarterback. "I wasn't the first choice for the starting role, and I was pretty disappointed," Simon admits. "But my family kept me grounded, reminding me to stay ready for my chance." Making his family proud was always more important to him than football. Even though he didn't start right away, Simon worked hard until he was given his chance, and his efforts eventually paid off. He had a resilient story, which would serve as a pillar of his leadership at Temple.

This season, Simon has thrown for 1,545 yards and 13 touchdowns. During his second start as an Owl while filling in for an injured Forrest Brock, he had a career-high performance against Utah State with five touchdown passes and one rushing touchdown. Simon says… He's versatile. He threw for 271 yards and connected on each of those five touchdown passes to five different receivers on the team. After embracing the starting quarterback role, he has successfully completed 141 of 232 pass attempts (60.8%).

The move from Rutgers to Temple was a big one for Simon, but he settled in right away. The transition went more smoothly on the field than he had anticipated. Simon credits his adjustment to Danny Langsdorf, Temple's offensive coordinator, who he immediately bonded. He says, "Coach Langsdorf has been a huge support system." "He truly made me feel at home here, both as a person and as a player." Langsdorf has worked closely with Simon by studying film and going over plays in order to develop him into what this team needs to win. "You know, Evan just gets better every day. He's smart. He makes smart decisions with the football. He's very selfless. Whatever he has to do for this team, he will do," said Langsdorf recently.

Off the field, Simon quickly developed a close bond with his teammates, especially wide receiver Dante Wright. It started off as friendly conversation in the locker room and went to hanging out and developing a friendship. Beginning in January, the two forged a close bond that paid off in a play that would become one of the season's highlights, Wright's 91-yard touchdown reception against Utah State. When asked how he feels about playing with Wright, he said, "He's a heck of a player. He makes me feel more confident, and I love seeing #5 on the field." The duo have a strong quarterback and wide receiver bond that makes playing fun.

However, the shift was made simple by more than just football. Simon has a newfound love for Temple's campus life, which contrasts with Rutgers' more traditional college vibe. He says, "Philly is a whole new world compared to Lancaster, where it's all farm fields and Amish country." "There is a lot to do here, and I adore the city's fast-paced way of life." Simon enjoys the city, where there's never a dull moment. He likes to attend professional sporting events, and don't worry, he is a Birds' fan of course. He and his teammates make it a mission to try a new restaurant each time they have time to go out.

Simon takes on the role of leader with pride, particularly while under pressure. He is known for being outspoken and enthusiastic, often motivating his teammates to be focused and prepared for their turn, just like he was. During Temple's intense overtime win against FAU, Simon remembers when he was rallying his teammates on the sidelines. "I kept telling them to stay ready," he says. "I know what each of them is capable of, and I expect them to perform to that standard when it matters the most." When others crumble under stress, Simon rises. "You have to accept the pressure as a quarterback. It would be an issue if they weren't depending on me," he says.

Simon has perfected the skill of balancing the demands of being a student-athlete. "I follow the same schedule every day," he says. "I attend class after practice, then I return to watch film." It all comes down to keeping focused and disciplined. Throughout the season, Simon puts everything else on hold and concentrates mostly on his studies and football. He also makes an effort to keep up his relationships with his family, who have supported him consistently throughout his career. Simon prepares for game day in a structured and targeted manner. "I spend a lot of time going over plays, watching film, and studying the game plan," he says. "I want to keep my confidence high and make sure I'm mentally prepared for whatever happens." Simon's pre-game music is an essential component of his ritual. He has listened to Kodak Black's Skrilla at least a dozen times. He chuckles, "It just puts me in the zone, it keeps me locked in."

For Simon, "Temple Tuff" is a way of thinking rather than just a phrase. For him, it stands for an indication of physical and mental strength that motivates all he does. "I know I have to live up to that level when I think of Temple Tuff. It's about being tough, disciplined, and putting in a lot of effort each and every day," he says. After Temple defeated FAU, Simon looked around the stands and saw his family cheering him after he had just contributed to leading his team to victory. He recalls, "That moment meant a lot to me. It was satisfying to tell them about that win. I also danced with my teammates and signed some autographs for the fans. I will never forget that."

Simon is committed to having a successful season finale for his team as well as for himself. "I want to end the season with a 3-0 record," he says. "I'd like to finish the season with a few more wins and a good send-off for the seniors." His individual goals include being a single-digit player, which is a sought-after symbol of leadership at Temple, and winning AAC Offensive Player of the Week. Evan Simon's path to Temple has been highlighted by diligence, determination, and a drive for excellence. As the starting quarterback, he is not only leading the Owls on the field but also establishing the benchmark for Temple football players. Simon's future is bright.

Temple University Athletics

Simon Says... Make Every Play Count

Players Mentioned

Forrest Brock

Evan Simon

Dante Wright

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