-
Temple entered its opener against Rhode Island with an unsettled quarterback competition between Penn State transfer Jaxon Smolik and Washington State transfer Ajani Sheppard, and K.C. Keeler declined to publicly name a starter.
-
Smolik appeared to be leading first-team work in the open Monday practice, taking every snap behind an offensive line returning four starters with Kevin Terry replacing injured right tackle Luke Watson.
-
Temple's run-game outlook leaned on Hunter Smith, Keveun Mason, and Rutgers transfer Sam Brown, who looked fast, physical, and dynamic in April and August after two prior season-ending injuries.
-
Temple's pass-catching group gives the new quarterback options with tight end Peter Clarke returning after a 30-catch, 483-yard, six-touchdown season, plus JoJo Bermudez, Colin Chase, and Stony Brook transfer Jayce Freeman at receiver.
-
Temple's defensive line in Brian L. Smith's base 3-4 was described as potentially nine deep, with Lafayette edge transfer Jaylon Joseph and Tiffin defensive tackle transfer Kevin Hornbeak standing out in August and the final preseason scrimmage.