Coyer anxious to return

Temple quarterback Chris Coyer anticipated the first question the way he does a defender blitzing. He knew it would be about his shoulder, which was injured in the first offensive series of the Owls' season-ending 34-16 win over visiting Kent State on Nov. 25. The redshirt sophomore didn't return to action.

"I am feeling really well," Coyer said after practice on Tuesday. "I had a week off and had some time to rest and do a lot of rehab and I am doing well."

Coyer and his teammates are preparing for the New Mexico Bowl on Dec. 17 against Wyoming. Both Coyer and coach Steve Addazio feel he will be under center for the game.

When asked if the game were tomorrow could he play, Coyer replied, "I think so."

Since the game won't be played tomorrow, he was more confident.

"It is making progress every day," he said. "I will be fine for the bowl game and be 100 percent."

Addazio is also cautiously optimistic.

"He is getting better and healthy," Addazio said. "I anticipate him playing; I can't guarantee it."

Coyer, who made his third start of the season against Kent State, has given the Owls late-season spark that began when he replaced starter Chester Stewart midway through the first quarter in a 35-31 loss at Ohio and threw for 123 yards and three touchdowns while running for 184.

Coyer has rushed for 491 yards (8.6 average) and three touchdowns. He has completed 22 of 38 passes for 294 yards, five touchdowns and no interceptions.

Coyer waited for his chance and he will be kicking and clawing to get back.

"It was tough having to leave the game," he said. "You always feel you let your team down in some shape or form."

Coyer says his shoulder gets tired, but it will take more than a little fatigue to keep him on the sidelines for the bowl game.

"It takes a lot for me to stay out of a game," he said. "I am excited for this and it's my first chance to play in a bowl game and we're all pumped for this."

-Marc Narducci