In a game defined by grit, determination, and the steady leg of Temple kicker Maddux Trujillo, the Owls edged Florida Atlantic 18-15 in overtime in a dramatic Week 11 American Athletic Conference showdown on Saturday. Trujillo’s remarkable performance, highlighted by a walk-off 39-yard field goal in overtime, sealed a much-needed victory for Temple.
Trujillo was the undisputed star of the night, converting on all four of his field-goal attempts, including an impressive trio from long range: 54, 50, and 47 yards. His final 39-yarder in overtime came after Temple’s defense stepped up, led by Tyquan King, who recorded back-to-back sacks to stall FAU’s opening possession in the extra period.
“Every kick felt the same,” Trujillo said postgame. “But that last one, knowing it was for the win, felt a little sweeter.”
The game reached overtime in thrilling fashion. With just 34 seconds left in regulation, FAU running back CJ Campbell punched in a 1-yard touchdown to bring the Owls within 15-13. On the ensuing two-point conversion, FAU executed a perfectly timed trick play: Campbell pitched to Omari Hayes on a reverse, who then found quarterback Tyriq Starks in the end zone to tie the game at 15-15.
Despite the late heroics, FAU’s offense couldn’t capitalize in overtime, with Temple’s defense stepping up at the critical moment.
Earlier in the fourth quarter, Terrez Worthy capped a methodical 15-play, 87-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run, giving Temple a 12-7 lead. Trujillo added his 50-yarder shortly after to extend the advantage to 15-7.
Evan Simon was solid under center for Temple, completing 24 of 41 passes for 218 yards. Though the offense struggled to find the end zone consistently, Trujillo’s reliable kicking provided the scoring edge.
FAU, now winless in AAC play at 0-6 (2-8 overall), showed flashes of creativity and resilience but ultimately fell short. Campbell was the workhorse, rushing 20 times for 70 yards and two touchdowns. Kasen Weisman and Tyriq Starks combined for 194 passing yards, but the Owls’ offense sputtered when it mattered most.
FAU’s defense kept the game competitive, but penalties and missed opportunities prevented them from securing the victory.
The win improves Temple to 3-7 overall and 2-4 in the AAC, offering a morale boost in what has been a challenging season. Meanwhile, FAU will continue searching for their first conference win in their remaining games.
For Temple, Trujillo’s performance will go down as one of the highlights of the season, showcasing the impact a reliable kicker can have in a tight contest. For FAU, the loss encapsulated a season of near-misses and unrealized potential, leaving fans yearning for brighter days ahead.
