The Temple Owls routed the Villanova Wildcats (FCS) 41-10 in front of 32,000 people Aug. 31 at Lincoln Financial Park in Philadelphia (box score). The Owls had little trouble in with cross-city opponents and won their third consecutive Mayor’s Cup, in what may be the series finale. No future games between the two schools are scheduled.

Quarterback Chris Coyer (and tailback Matt Brown led the way for the Owls in their first game as members of the Big East Conference. Coyer completed five of 11 passes for 61 yards and a touchdown to Kenneth Harper. The quarterback also rushed for 80 yards and a touchdown. Brown racked up 145 rushing yards and a touchdown. He also netted 41 return yards. Newcomer Montel Harris (Boston College transfer) saw limited action, running the ball five times for 12 yards.

As lopsided as the final score was, Villanova had more offense yards (365-362) and plays (68-65) than Temple. The Wildcats also turned over the ball twice leading to Owls scores.

Temple hosts the Maryland Terrapins Sept. 8. The Owls defeated the Terps 38-7 last season.

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