Temple begins spring-practice football

Temple football will start laying the groundwork today for what it hopes is another successful season.

The Owls will hold the first of 15 spring-practice sessions this morning at Chodoff Field at Edberg-Olson Hall.

Returning 17 starters, the Owls hope to build on last season's 9-4 record and an EagleBank Bowl appearance. Temple lost that bowl game to UCLA, 30-21.

The Owls, however, recorded their first winning season since 1990 and first bowl appearance in 30 seasons.

Temple's spring practices will be held on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays stretched over 33 calendar days. The drills will include the Cherry and White intrasquad scrimmage on April 17.

The normal practices are not open to the general public. Temple football alumni, approved high school coaches, and high school prospects, however, are allowed to attend.

The Owls are expected to contend for next season's Mid-American Conference title.

As a true freshman, Bernard Pierce rushed for Temple freshmen records 1,361 yards, 16 touchdowns and six 100-yard single-game performances.

The Owls will open the season against defending NCAA Football Championship Subdivision champion Villanova in the second annual Mayor's Cup game during the Labor Day weekend. The date has not been determined.

Contact staff writer Keith Pompey at 610-313-8029 or kpompey@phillynews.com.