Aug. 21, 2006
VILLANOVA, Pa. - A local rivalry dating back to the early 20th century will be continued in coming seasons, as Villanova and Temple announced this week the agreement of a four-game commitment between the two teams. The Owls will host Villanova at Lincoln Financial Field each year from 2009 to 2012.
"This four game series will be a great shot in the arm for college football in the city of Philadelphia," head Villanova coach Andy Talley said. "Villanova and Temple is a natural rivalry and the series will be a treat for the local college football fans. Being able to play all four games at Lincoln Financial Field will provide a first class venue and atmosphere for the teams and the fans. This is an agreement that is good for both Villanova and Temple."
The Wildcats and Temple have met on the gridiron 28 previous times, with Villanova currently holding a 14-12-2 edge in the series. In the last meeting between the two squads, the Wildcats defeated the Owls 23-20 in overtime in Temple's first game at Lincoln Financial Field.
Villanova has matched up against a I-A opponent 10 times since reinstating its football program in 1985. The Wildcats have defeated Temple and Rutgers (37-19 win in 2002) in that span and will continue their commitment to facing I-A competition this season with a road contest against the University of Central Florida.
"This agreement is significant for both our program and for college football in Philadelphia," said Temple head coach Al Golden. "This series not only meets our initiative to schedule non-conference opponents within our recruiting footprint, it also helps reenergize the rich tradition of college football in the city. To provide highly anticipated regional contests in a premier venue such as Lincoln Financial Field is a win. Ultimately, it's an agreement that makes sense for the universities, the programs, the fans and the city."
Villanova will host its annual football media day this Tuesday, August 22, beginning at 3:00 p.m. with interviews. An intra-squad scrimmage, open to the media, begins at 3:30 p.m.
The Wildcats open the season on September 2 at 6 p.m. with a road contest against the University of Central Florida. The game against the Golden Knights will mark Villanova's 11th meeting with a I-A team since reinstating its football program in 1985. The Wildcats own wins over Temple and Rutgers (37-19 in 2002) in that span.
Villanova's home opener is on September 9 against Lehigh at 6 p.m. For season ticket packages, visit the Villanova website at www.villanova.com or call the ticket office at 610-519-4100.
