PHILADELPHIA – Tulane ended October with its first difficult patch of the season, but that appears to be a thing of the past. The Green Wave avoided a third straight loss two weeks ago and will try to win back-to-back contests on Saturday when they visit Temple.
TV: Noon ET, ESPNU. LINE: Tulane -6.
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Justin McMillan threw a touchdown pass and ran for three scores in Tulane's recent win over Tulsa, helping the team earn bowl eligibility with its sixth win of the campaign. Temple also earned its sixth win last week, posting a 17-7 triumph against South Florida (also following two straight defeats). Jager Gardner was one of the stars for the Owls in their last win, registering 133 yards on 25 carries - by far the highest totals of his senior season. The Green Wave have a potent running attack of their own, as the team has rushed for at least 100 yards in 49 consecutive games.
ABOUT TULANE (6-3, 3-2 American)
In addition to serving as Tulane’s quarterback, McMillan is the top rusher on the team with 488 yards and 12 rushing scores. Corey Dauphine has been a dynamic weapon out of the backfield with 455 yards on 46 carries, good for a whopping 9.9 yards per attempt. The Green Wave defense has generally been solid as well, as the team has held six of its nine opponents below its season average in total yards.
ABOUT TEMPLE (6-3, 3-2)
Sam Franklin’s fumble return for a touchdown against USF highlighted a strong defensive effort by Temple, which had allowed 108 points in losing its previous two games. Offensively, Temple actually set a season low with 17 points scored versus the Bulls as Anthony Russo was held under 200 yards passing for the third straight game. Jadan Blue continued to be a bright spot with 11 grabs for 121 yards, bringing his team-leading totals to 55 catches for 672 yards (and two scores).
EXTRA POINTS
1. The teams met in 2014, 2015 and 2016 with Temple winning all three matchups.
2. Tulane is attempting to win at least seven games in back-to-back seasons for the first time since 1997-98.
3. The Owls rank second in the AAC in sacks (29).
PREDICTION: Temple 39, Tulane 30