
In a decisive move aimed at reinvigorating its football program, Temple University has placed its bet on K.C. Keeler. Hailing from Sam Houston State, Keeler steps in as the Owls' head football coach with a mandate to revive the team's competitive spirit and chart a return to winning ways. He fills the void left by Stan Drayton's departure, who Temple parted ways with following a period of underwhelming performances.
Temple's Athletic Director, Arthur Johnson, praised Keeler's appointment, highlighting his remarkable ability to scout and develop adept student-athletes into formidable competitors. As FOX 29 News reported, Johnson is quoted asserting, "Coach Keeler has a track record of evaluating, recruiting, and developing student-athletes into championship-level young men."
K.C. Keeler's coaching tenure glistens with triumphs that span decades and different institutions. Notably, his time at Sam Houston culminated in an unblemished 10-0 2020 season that secured the FCS national title, and he adeptly navigated the Bearkats' transition to the Football Bowl Subdivision. Keeler boasts an enviable career win tally that makes him one of the most successful active college football coaches, as indicated in the articles from CBS News Philadelphia and NBC Philadelphia.
According to a statement shared by CBS News Philadelphia, K.C. Keeler expressed his exhilaration over the new position saying, "I am beyond thrilled to be named Temple University’s next head football coach." He celebrated the opportunity and signalled his eagerness to get down to business. Keeler's return to his roots—as the Pennsylvania native steps into this new role—is infused with a palpable sense of coming home.
The Philadelphia community and Temple fans have shown a wave of optimism, bolstered by the approval of figures like Indianapolis Colts quarterback and Super Bowl MVP Joe Flacco. Reflecting on Keeler's influence, Flacco stated, "Coach Keeler took a chance on me 20 years ago and I'll never forget that. I couldn't be more excited for him and his family. If you're an Owls fan, I’d be excited," as mentioned by CBS News Philadelphia. Temple University President John Fry underscored Keeler's history of building winning programs, anticipating a similar transformation at Temple.