WHAT TO KNOW

What’s at stake

For Temple, a trip to the conference title game is on the line, while UConn is looking to build on an already successful season. Temple controls its destiny to the American Championship game. A win — or a USF loss — clinches the East Division of the American Athletic Conference for the Owls and their first 10-win regular season in school history. UConn became bowl eligible for the first time since 2010 last week. The Huskies can improve their bowl destination with a win.

Key matchup

Temple QB P.J. Walker and RB Thomas vs. UConn’s defense. Walker, Temple’s junior signal caller, has passed for more than 2,000 yards for the third straight season while Thomas, also a junior, has his first 1,000yard rushing season. Temple has done well controlling time of possession this season, but turnovers could be key. And UConn has a defense that leads the American in interceptions.

Players to watch

Temple: LB Tyler Matakevich is a Connecticut native that leads all active tacklers in FBS. He also has five interceptions this season, a new single-season record for linebackers.

UConn: CB Jamar Summers is third in the nation and first in the American in interceptions with seven interceptions on the year.

Facts & figures

UConn hasn’t fared too well against AP Top 25 teams. The Huskies are 3-23 in games against AP Top 25 teams . Robby Anderson needs four catches to have a 50-catch season. He would be the seventh player in Temple history to reach the 50-catch plateau . Walker needs 29 yards and four TDs to reach the career-highs in the respective categories. Walker would also rank send all-time in Temple history in those categories.

Betting line

Temple by 12½