EagleBank Bowl Preview
December 25th, 2009 by Nick Gerogosian
Dec. 29: EagleBank Bowl – Washington, D.C.
Temple (9-3, 7-1 MAC) vs. UCLA (6-6, 3-6 PAC-10) or Army (5-6 Independent)
Note: 4:30 p.m. ESPN. Temple to make first bowl appearance since 1979
While both offenses average 338-yards per game, Temple is far superior in rushing averaging 192-yards per game while UCLA does more damage through the air with 223 yards per game. Both defenses are almost alike as Temple ranks 36th and UCLA ranks 38th in total defense. Both rank 32 in turnover margin.
For Temple, the big question mark is the health status of star freshman RB Bernard Pierce. Much is made of his season stats of 1308 yards and 15 TDs. However, he really put up the bulk of his damage in 8 games with 1240 yards and all of those TDs. He suffered an injury against Kent State and hasn’t played since that game. Hopefully the time off has proven to be enough days to get back on the field.
Overall, Temple wants this game more as they have a chance to win a bowl game for the first time in 30 years and 10 games for the first time in several decades. Expect a dogfight as the Bruins are a decently talented team overall, yet have no single player that stands out.
Nick’s Pick: Temple 24 – UCLA 21
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