Temple University has dismissed head coach Stan Drayton after three seasons at the helm. The university's decision was announced on the heels of an 18-51 overtime victory against Florida Atlantic, a win that did little to alleviate the Owls' dismal 3-7 season tally. Drayton, who accumulated a 9-25 record overall and a 4-18 mark in conference play, exits the program following consecutive losing seasons.

Arthur Johnson, Temple's Director of Athletics expressed his gratitude to Drayton, "I would like to extend my appreciation to Coach Drayton for his commitment to Temple University, our student-athletes and the football program over the past three years," as stated in a report by FOX29.

Notwithstanding the appreciation, Johnson's next steps were clear, citing “Our expectation is to compete for American Athletic Conference titles, appear in bowl games consistently, and build a program that our fans, alumni, and students can be proud of in the classroom and on the field. I am confident that our fans will rally around our student-athletes and support them as they always have,” in a release quoted by WHYY.

There seems to be a consensus that despite the lackluster performance on the gridiron, Drayton's leadership was marked by integrity. "Student-athletes under his leadership have excelled in the classroom and been outstanding members of the community," Johnson noted in a released statement, as per WHYY. Drayton himself echoed a positive sentiment as he departed, saying, "I appreciate the opportunity that I was given to lead a great group of young men at Temple University. I wish them nothing but the best in football and in life," as he remarked according to FOX29.

Everett Withers, previously serving as the defensive coordinator, has now been tasked to take over as interim head coach for the rest of the season. Having led the defense, Withers steps in with more than 35 years of experience in both college and professional coaching ranks. This decision was made despite the struggling season that has had Temple, Drayton left assistant roles at prestigious programs such as the University of Texas to take over as head coach, as 6ABC reports.

The Owls, now navigating the aftermath of Drayton's tenure, will roll into San Antonio to face the UTSA Roadrunners next Saturday.