Temple releases statement amid questions about future of football program

Temple University released a statement amid recent media coverage questioning the future of the Owls’ football program.

University president John Fry said the administration had to “step back and assess” the football program following the team’s latest loss to UTSA, falling to 3-8 on the year. Once he said that, local media members in print and on social media questioned if the school should continue with a football program.

Fry and AD Arthur Johnson released a joint statement in response to reaffirm their commitment to Temple football.

“We are writing today to address recent media coverage, which misrepresented Temple’s position with respect to our football program,” the statement read. “Football is an integral part of our identity, and we want to honor and reinvigorate our tradition and legacy. For generations, Temple football has been a source of pride and community, bringing us together to celebrate teamwork, perseverance, and excellence off the field.

“As we write this, we are actively engaged in discussions with several highly-qualified head coach candidates. We are searching for a coach who will infuse energy into the program and position us to compete for conference championships and play in bowl games. We look forward to making an announcement soon.”

Temple competes in the AAC and has had success over the last 25 years, but hasn’t made a bowl game since 2019. In the program’s history, Temple’s made nine bowl games with seven of them coming since 2009.

Since 2019, Temple is 21-45 as a program.

“We recognize that the landscape of college football, and intercollegiate athletics in general, is changing rapidly,” the statement continued. “Conference realignment, the transfer portal, Name, Image and Likeness opportunities, among many other factors, are reshaping the dynamics of competition. These challenges demand that we adapt and innovate to ensure Temple football not only survives but thrives in this evolving environment.

“Last spring, under the leadership of … Arthur Johnson, and with oversight from the Board of Trustees, the university began a comprehensive review and assessment of the athletics program. This evaluation started prior to President Fry’s arrival. No single program is the focus of that review. Any indication to the contrary is not accurate. Like many other schools across the country, this proactive step was taken so the university can strategically plan amidst a dynamic and shifting landscape.”

Temple concludes the season in Philadelphia against North Texas on Saturday.

“As we move into the next chapter of Temple football, we want to reiterate our commitment to the program and send our appreciation for your continued support,” the statement concluded. “We have an opportunity now to position Temple where it belongs in the college football landscape and none of that would be possible without you. Go Owls!”