The Temple Owls nearly paid for their in-game mistakes, but blocked a late field goal attempt to top South Florida, 37-28 at Lincoln Financial Field.
USF vs. Temple 2012 final score: Owls block FG, hang on for 37-28 win
The Temple Owls put up a bevy of points in the second half and held off South Florida by blocking a late field goal attempt to win 37-28.
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Temple failed to convert an extra point in the first half and was called for a roughing the passer penalty on the Bulls' final drive that led to a go-ahead field goal attempt. However, kicker Maikon Bonani's 45-yard attempt was blocked and returned for 32 yards. Temple's Motel Harris put the game out of reach with a 35-yard rushing score on the next play.
After a relatively tame first half, the two teams exploded on offense after halftime to the tune of 49 points. The Owls and Bulls traded nearly touchdown for touchdown with Temple hanging on to a lead despite USF’s attempt at a comeback.
Lindsey Lamar opened up the third quarter with a 19-yard rushing score, adding to his receiving touchdown in the first half. The Owls responded with consecutive scores as Matt Brown scored on the ground and quarterback Chris Coyer connected with Cody Booth in the passing game.
Following a Daniels rushing score to close the gap to a two-point deficit with 5:19 remaining, Temple was unable to ice the game and punted back to the Bulls.
Box Score Hero: Temple quarterback Chris Coyer was efficient in the passing game, completing 80 percent of his passes for 167 yards and a passing touchdown. The junior also added 54 rushing yards and a score with his legs.
But Did They Cover? South Florida was unable to cover as the 4.5-point favorites.
For More On This Game: For more on USF football, visit South Florida blog Voodoo Five, plus Big East blog Big East Coast Bias and SB Nation Tampa Bay. For more on Temple football, visit SB Nation Philly and Big East Coast Bias.
Next Week’s Schedule: USF has a bye week upcoming before returning to field against No. 19 Louisville on Oct. 20. The Owls meanwhile go on the road to face UConn next Saturday.
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