Both coaches have said that answering questions about other coaching jobs is nothing but a distraction to to their players.
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I also expect senior defensive tackle Matt Ioannidis to play a critical role in slowing down Houston’s attack.
Houston is known for its high-powered offense, but in Saturday’s AAC title game against Temple, it was the Cougars’ defense that stole the show. Against Navy, probably even higher stakes, we came out like gangbusters.
“Our goal wasn’t to be 11-1, our goal wasn’t to be 12-0, our goal wasn’t to be the West Division Champions, our goal was to win the conference, and we are that close”, Herman said earlier this week. It’s no coincidence that Houston’s one loss came in a turnover-plagued game at UConn in which junior quarterback Greg Ward Jr. was injured. On Saturday his players rewarded him with a 24-13 win over Temple. Houston was in total protect the lead mode at that point, and relied on its defense to close out the win.
Still, had the Owls registered a first down on that late 3rd-and-3 instead of taking the shot into the end zone, they might have scored to make it 24-20 (or 24-21 with a two-point conversion) and it would have been a whole different game. This game won’t be a defensive battle, but if one offense struggles in the first half, they may be in trouble. Combined he’s had a part in 33 touchdowns. Temple fell into a 17-point hold in the second quarter, and while it tried to claw its way back, the deficit was too much – especially since the Owls turned the ball over on downs on their last two drives.
Anderson led Temple with 12 catches for 150 yards and their only touchdown.
For the season, Ward has thrown for 16 touchdowns and run for 17 TDs. The Temple secondary will have their hands full trying to stop the connection between Ward and Ayers.
Jahad Thomas, RB, Temple – Put simply, the key to offensive success for Temple revolves around Jahad Thomas.
Later in the half, Ward made it 17-0 with his ninth run of 30 or more yards this season.
Houston committed no turnovers and caused two, one which led to seven points.
Asked to clarify whether “legal action” mentioned in the statement referred to the contract with CSC or to possible assault charges, Houston athletics spokesman David Bassity replied via email, “Pertaining actions deemed assault”.
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There’s plenty of parity in the American, and a lot of it comes from talented teams.
