Army Temple Preview

It's an away game Saturday as Army goes to Temple and will do their part to try to spoil the Owls' homecoming. It's Temple's last non-conference game and Army will have its hands full as Temple puts their tough running attack up against Army's tough D.

Temple's is coming off three straight wins. Army is looking to win back to back games for the first time this season and it would be great to for the Black Knights to get their 4th win of the year on the road. Temple's win streak apparently boosts their credibility, but with but their last two opponents remaining winless, just how much of Temple's credibility is deserved?

The Owls are using a freshman RB, Bernard Pierce.

“He’s starting to feel it,” Golden said. “He’s starting to carry it, and he’s getting stronger as the game goes on. He’s giving us a glimpse of obviously what he can be. He’s got to continue to work hard and become an all-around player – catch the ball better and protect a little bit better – but right now, he’s doing a good job in the running game.”

Here are some quick hits from Temple's perspective

During coach Al Golden’s four-year tenure, the Owls have come to play on Homecoming. Their only win of the season in 2006 came on Homecoming, a game-winning field goal in 2007 made it two in a row, and last year, the Owls dropped a tough one, 7-3. After opening last season with a 35-7 drubbing of Army and their strong play on Homecoming, expect a good showing this weekend.

Continue to pound the rock: It’s safe to say the Owls have become a running team led by freshman back Bernard Pierce. On Saturday, Pierce rushed 26 times for 125 yards and scored two touchdowns. He became the first Owl freshman to rush for 100 yards in three straight games, the most since Tanardo Sharps had four straight 100-yard games in 2002.

Defense has to step up: With Army planning to pound the ball this weekend, the responsibility falls on the Owls defense. In the win against Ball State, the defense produced five sacks, two interceptions and nine tackles for loss. Army succeeds when it can control the clock and wear down opposing defenses, so making stops on third down and getting off the field will be crucial.

Temple Football Forever is a Temple Blog that I will be sure to add to the link list.

Rich Ellerson's press conference quotes are up as are Army/Temple game notes.

Army @ Temple Saturday 1:00 PM EST