Skip to content
Link copied to clipboard

Prediction: Temple won’t pick up first W against Maryland

Unlike its first two games when Temple was favored, the Owls are a 14 1/2 point underdog.

Temple wide receiver Isaiah Wright runs with the football against Buffalo safety Tyrone Hill on Saturday, September 8, 2018. YONG KIM / Staff Photographer
Temple wide receiver Isaiah Wright runs with the football against Buffalo safety Tyrone Hill on Saturday, September 8, 2018. YONG KIM / Staff PhotographerRead moreYong Kim
    by Marc Narducci | Columnist
    Published 

Here we have teams going in opposite directions, one surpassing early expectations and the other underachieving.

When Temple (0-2) visits Maryland (2-0) in its first road game of the season Saturday at noon, the Owls are not only battling a Power Five school, but also attempting to regain some semblance of confidence.

Losses to Villanova and Buffalo that were considered sure wins in the preseason have shaken the Owls and threatened to ruin their season. Conversely, wins over Texas and Bowling Green have Maryland thinking it may be better than advertised.

The whole key is for Temple to stop the run. Maryland is averaging 293.5 rushing yards per game and a healthy 5.9 average.

Temple is allowing 151.1 yards rushing per game and a 3.9 average. If the Owls get closer to that figure, this one can be competitive.

Winning the game isn't an outlandish thought for Temple. Just last week Maryland led Bowling Green, 17-14 after three quarters before putting the game away with 28 in the fourth quarter.

The Owls must get off to a better start. They have been outscored 19-3 in the first quarters. Another slow start will lead to a bad finish.

Prediction: Maryland 28, Temple 21.