2002 Statistics

written by Collin Mickle

Although the Owls' quarterback job will likely be up for grabs this fall (see below), whoever wins the position will be able to fall back on an experienced group of receivers - seniors Zamir Cobb and Terrance Stubbs and sophomore Sean Szarka all recorded more than 20 receptions in 2002. Szarka, who scored four TDs playing in the slot as the A-back, could see an increased role. Another JUCO All-American, Phil Goodman, will enter fall as the fourth starter despite not participating in spring practice.

The offensive line should also be solid. Senior guards Joe Laudano and Jose Portillo both have starting experience. Tackles Adam Boyd and John Gross are inexperienced, while JUCO transfer C.J. Blomvall appears set to start at center. None of the trio has much Division I experience. This area could be a problem if the experience of the first few games doesn't cause improved play, accordingly.

The departure of running back Tanardo Sharps (1200+ yards) leaves the Owls with a major hole. Senior Makonnen Fenton now has the edge over a host of other players that includes junior (transfer) Jamil Porter.

Another major concern is at quarterback, where junior Mike McGann returns to again start. Although McGann is an athletic runner and a capable passer - 16 combined touchdowns in 2002 - he threw an unacceptable 22 interceptions in just 12 games. Quarterback is a vitally important position in Temple's four-wide, one-back spread offense, and mistakes are too costly to risk a repeated 2002 performance.

Junior college All-American Walter Washington, a sophomore, will challenge McGann for the job in the pre-season. Look for his progress to parallel that of the team - he will likely be a savior if he can adjust as needed and eventually start.

WR Zamir Cobb (PHOTO CREDIT - Harvey Levine)

written by Collin Mickle

Defensive end Rodney Wormley is one of the few returning starters on the defensive line. Wormley, who had 42 tackles as a freshman in 2002, benefited considerably from the presence of All-Big East selection Dan Klecko at defensive tackle. Klecko is gone, so Wormley will have to take a more prominent role. The only other experienced player on the d-line will be senior tackle Taso Apostolidis. Apostolidis had 40 tackles as a backup in 2002 and will replace the talent and hustle of Klecko.

One player to watch on the defensive line will be sophomore end Mike Mendenhall. As a reserve in 2002, Mendenhall recorded 35 tackles. Mendenhall, who will likely play the rush end position, will have to make big plays. If he performs and garners double-teams, others stepping up will dictate how well the line performs as a unit.

The Owls' linebacker corps is expected to be solid behind the leadership of sophomore Rian Wallace, the team's top returning tackler. Senior Troy Bennett - a weight-room monster who bench-presses over 400 pounds - will enter the fall as the starter at the strong side. Temple's 4-2-5 base defense means that Wallace and Bennett will typically be the only linebackers on the field for the Owls. Nickel and dime players will need to think run-support for this to work, but this takes balanced players who make few mistakes when deciding run or pass.

The Owls return just one starter in the secondary. In a conference that promises to air the ball out regularly, inexperience in the defensive backfield does not bode well for TU. That player, senior cornerback Yazid Jackson, is a solid cover corner, but his lack of size (5-10) is a handicap against the tall receivers of Pittsburgh, Boston College, Virginia Tech and Miami.

Senior Donnie Coleman earned the other starting position at cornerback, beating out talented sophomore Mike Holley. Even if Holley does not regain the job in the fall - certainly a possibility - he will see plenty of action as the nickel.

The three safeties - free safety Jonathan McPhee, strong safety Sadeke Conte, and "Owl safety" Lawrence Wade - are extremely inexperienced. The trio combined for just six tackles in 2002 - five stops by McPhee. The unit will get an early trial-by-fire - the Owls face solid passing attacks in three first-half tilts, against Penn State, Cincinnati, and Louisville.

CB Yazid Jackson (PHOTO CREDIT - Harvey Levine)