Temple vs. UAB: Analysis of the Struggling Offenses & Key Matchups

On Saturday, November 18, Temple and UAB will face off in a college football showdown that promises intrigue despite their matching 3-7 records. Both teams have struggled this season, and their meeting provides an opportunity to dissect their recent performances, offensive strategies, and the key players that might shape the outcome.

The Temple Owls enter this game with a 3-7 record, including a challenging 1-5 mark in American Athletic Conference (AAC) games. Their season has been marked by inconsistency, with wins over Akron, FCS Norfolk State, and Navy, but losses in almost every other encounter. In their last outing, Temple fell short against South Florida with a final score of 27-23.

Quarterback EJ Warner has been the focal point of Temple's pass-oriented offense. Against South Florida, Warner threw for 280 yards, registering three touchdowns and three interceptions. The rushing attack, however, struggled, managing just 109 yards on 26 carries.

On the season, Warner has thrown for 2,423 yards, completing 58% of his passes, with 19 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. His favorite target, David Martin-Robinson, has been a reliable receiver with three touchdowns and an average of 13 yards per reception.

Defensively, the Owls are led by Jordan Magee, boasting 78 total tackles. However, Temple's defensive unit has faced challenges, allowing an average of 35 points per game and ranking 126th in rush defense, conceding 193 yards on the ground per game.

Coach Stan Dryaton acknowledges the team's resilience but expresses frustration at their inconsistent performances, highlighting the need for sustained excellence throughout the game.

Offensively, Temple has struggled to find consistency, averaging 21 points per game, ranking 111th nationally. Their pass-heavy approach sees them as the 37th best passing offense, with 267 yards per game. However, the rushing game lags behind at 96.5 yards per game, ranking 123rd.

From a PA betting perspective, Temple holds a 3-7 against-the-spread (ATS) record this season. They are 1-3 ATS on the road and 2-3 ATS as single-digit underdogs. The total is 5-5 in Temple games this year, with the under prevailing in three out of four road games.

UAB, with an identical 3-7 record, enters this matchup following a disheartening 31-6 loss to Navy. The Blazers, 2-4 in AAC games, have notched wins over North Carolina A&T, South Florida, and Florida Atlantic, but inconsistency has plagued their season.

Against Navy, UAB struggled offensively, scoring points solely through two field goals. Quarterback Jacob Zeno threw for 206 yards but also registered two interceptions. Running back Jermain Brown Jr. managed 55 yards on 15 carries, leading the rushing efforts, while Bryce Damous was the top receiver with one catch for 42 yards.

Zeno has been the key figure in UAB's offense, passing for 2,595 yards, completing 75% of his passes, with 17 touchdowns and nine interceptions. Brown contributes as the leading rusher, averaging 4.4 yards per carry and scoring nine touchdowns. Wide receiver Tejhuan Palmer leads the team with five touchdown catches.

Defensively, Michael Moore spearheads the Blazers with 63 total tackles, and Desmond Little leads in sacks with 4.5. The defense, however, faces challenges, allowing an average of 37.4 points per game and ranking 129th in rush defense, giving up 207 rushing yards per game.

+Coach Trent Dilfer acknowledges the disappointing loss to Navy and emphasizes the importance of turning the page. He looks forward to the last home game, aiming to honor the seniors and their contributions to the program.

UAB's offense has displayed a more balanced approach, averaging 28.3 points per game, with 144 rushing yards (82nd nationally) and 294 passing yards (16th nationally). Despite their offensive output, the Blazers face defensive struggles, allowing 37.4 points per game and ranking 131st nationally. Their rush defense ranks 129th, conceding 207 rushing yards per game, while the pass defense allows 213 yards per game, ranking 45th.

From a betting perspective, UAB holds a 5-5 ATS record this season. They are 3-2 ATS during home games and 2-2 ATS when favored. The over prevails in six out of 10 UAB games this season, with a 4-1 record in home games.

As Temple and UAB prepare to clash, the analysis reveals the intricacies of their struggles and strengths. Key players, offensive tactics, and betting trends provide insights for enthusiasts and Pennsylvania bettors looking to navigate this matchup. Despite their records, both teams bring unique challenges to the field, setting the stage for an intriguing showdown on November 18.