Memphis Controls Game, Beats Temple 34-14 in Philadelphia

By Brad Wilson | AP News Updated: Dec. 21, 2025, 11:08 p.m.

PHILADELPHIA — Brendon Lewis passed for 250 yards and three touchdowns, added a rushing score and led Memphis to a convincing 34-14 victory over Temple on Sunday night at Lincoln Financial Field.

The Tigers controlled the game from the opening possession, jumping out to a 10-0 first-quarter lead and never allowing Temple to seriously threaten. Memphis led 20-7 at halftime and consistently answered whenever the Owls showed signs of momentum.

Lewis completed 18 of 22 passes and rushed for 44 yards, delivering one of the most efficient performances of the early season. Memphis improved to 2-0 and continued to build a résumé that has gained national attention following its Week 1 win over Toledo.

“We didn’t want to get caught up in anything outside the building,” Memphis coach John Horak said. “Brendon played with great poise, and when your quarterback is that steady, it elevates everyone around him.”

Running back Sutton Smith provided balance, touching the ball 26 times for 143 total yards. He caught eight passes out of the backfield, repeatedly extending drives when Temple attempted to bring pressure.

Wide receiver Cortez Braham Jr. led the Tigers’ receiving corps with 113 yards and a touchdown, consistently stretching the field and forcing Temple’s defense to defend every blade of grass.

Temple (0-2) struggled to get off the field on third down and faced its second straight game against a ranked-caliber opponent after opening the season against San Diego State.

“Give Memphis credit — they’re playing at a very high level,” Temple coach Grant Easterday said. “We’ve been tested early, and now it’s about learning from it and getting better.”

Joquez Smith was a bright spot for the Owls, totaling 106 yards and scoring Temple’s lone touchdown. Despite the loss, Temple showed flashes of resilience while navigating one of the toughest opening schedules in the conference.

Memphis’ disciplined performance reinforced its early-season standing as one of the league’s most complete teams, pairing explosive offense with mistake-free execution.

“We wanted to show that Week 1 wasn’t a fluke,” Lewis said. “We’re focused on stacking wins.”

The Tigers now return to cross-divisional play with momentum — and increasing expectations — firmly on their side.