Temple’s defense has defined its season — and not for the better. These numbers explain why.

Temple’s defense was supposed to take a step forward in K.C. Keeler’s second season. Instead, after seven games, the Owls are searching for answers.

Following a 38-31 loss to previously winless Charlotte on Oct. 17, Keeler overhauled his defensive coaching staff. He dismissed defensive line coach Cedric Calhoun and reassigned coordinator Brian L. Smith to safeties coach. Assistant head coach Henry Baker was promoted to interim defensive coordinator and will assume play-calling duties.

The changes came after Temple surrendered 72 combined points in consecutive losses to UConn and Charlotte, dropping to 2-5 entering its bye week.

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Baker inherits a defense that has struggled to stop the run, pressure opposing quarterbacks, and prevent opponents from sustaining drives. With five games remaining, the Owls have little time to correct those problems as they enter a road matchup with East Carolina on Saturday (3 p.m.)

Here are five numbers that explain where Temple’s defense has fallen short:

Temple has allowed 28 points per game through seven contests, ranking 108th nationally among 138 FBS programs.

That average, however, does not fully capture the defense’s inconsistency.

Temple held then unbeaten South Florida to 13 points in a 17-13 victory on Oct. 3, one of its strongest defensive performances of the season. The Owls forced two late fourth-down stops and recovered a fumble on the game’s final play.

But that performance has been the exception rather than the standard.

UConn scored 34 points the following week before Charlotte added 38, becoming the latest opponent to exploit Temple’s defensive breakdowns.

Stopping the run has been one of Temple’s most persistent struggles.

The Owls have surrendered 165.9 rushing yards per game, ranking 99th nationally entering Saturday, and it’s been particularly costly near the goal line.

Temple has allowed 15 rushing touchdowns through seven games, including seven across its losses to UConn and Charlotte.

The problems extend beyond missed tackles. Keeler has repeatedly pointed to defensive alignment and communication mistakes that have left players out of position before the snap.

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Those errors have allowed opposing running backs to find open lanes, putting additional pressure on a defensive front that has lacked control of the line of scrimmage.

The challenge becomes more immediate against East Carolina, whose rushing attack features TJ Engleman Jr., a running back who has recorded three consecutive 100-yard performances.

Temple is also allowing opposing offenses to 238.7 passing yards per game, placing Temple 108th nationally.

Keeler explained that Temple’s previous defensive system relied on players communicating adjustments to opposing formations before the snap. When those adjustments were not communicated properly, defenders operated with different assignments.

The result has been breakdowns in coverage and opportunities for opponents to generate explosive plays.

Baker, who also coaches Temple’s defensive backs, will retain much of the unit’s terminology. He plans to adjust the defensive scheme to better fit the personnel.

Temple has recorded nine sacks this season.

The lack of pressure has made it difficult for the Owls’ secondary. It also emphasizes the struggles of a defensive line that Keeler singled out when explaining the coaching changes.

Calhoun’s dismissal was the most significant personnel consequence of those struggles. Chris Raitano, previously responsible for outside linebackers, has taken on additional defensive line responsibilities, with defensive analyst Jordan Hopkins also moving into an expanded role.

Perhaps no number better to explain why Keeler felt compelled to make changes.

Temple allowed 31 second-half points against Charlotte after entering halftime with a 14-7 lead.

The Owls appeared positioned to earn their third victory of the season before their defense unraveled against a team that entered the game averaging 16 points.

Charlotte scored four second-half touchdowns, turning what had been a manageable game into Temple’s fifth loss.

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The collapse also exposed a problem that has followed the Owls: an inability to finish games. Now, with Baker calling plays, Temple has five games to turn around its defense.

Saturday’s matchup will provide the first indication of whether a new voice can help reverse the defensive struggles that have defined much of the season.