Temple matchup centers on rushing attack and quarterback uncertainty

USF hosts Temple on Oct. 3 after the Owls lost three straight games, with late collapses contributing to the skid. Temple has produced at least 176 rushing yards in every game, while Jaxon Smolik’s injury has created quarterback uncertainty and elevated Ajani Sheppard’s role. USF’s run defense, protection and slow offensive starts remain the decisive matchup themes.