PHILADELPHIA — In a thrilling showdown on Saturday, Maddux Trujillo emerged as the hero for Temple, successfully converting four field goals, the final one being a dramatic walk-off 39-yarder in overtime that sealed an 18-15 victory over Florida Atlantic.
Tyquan King played a pivotal role in the game, registering consecutive sacks that effectively halted FAU’s initial possession during the overtime period.
Trujillo’s impressive performance included long-range field goals of 54, 50, and 47 yards, showcasing his accuracy and skill throughout the matchup. With just 34 seconds remaining in regulation, CJ Campbell orchestrated a 1-yard touchdown run, bringing the Owls closer at 15-13. Following this, Temple executed a creative two-point conversion attempt where Campbell pitched the ball to Omari Hayes on a reverse. Hayes then deftly threw it to quarterback Tyriq Starks, resulting in a successful conversion that tied the game at 15-15.
Earlier in the game, Terrez Worthy had a critical 1-yard touchdown run, capping off a lengthy 15-play, 87-yard drive that allowed the Owls to take a 12-7 lead with 7:15 left in the game. For Temple, quarterback Evan Simon had a productive day, completing 24 out of 41 passes for 218 yards.
In the rushing department, Campbell amassed 70 yards on 20 carries, contributing with his earlier touchdown in the second quarter. On the opposing sidelines, Florida Atlantic’s Kasen Weisman and Starks combined to go 19-for-36 passing, gaining a total of 194 yards. The loss left Florida Atlantic with a record of 2-8 overall and 0-6 in the conference, while Temple improved to 3-7 and 2-4 in the American Athletic Conference.