Temple signing day

2009 Temple Football National Letter of Intent Signees

Name Pos. Elig. Ht. Wt. Hometown High School / Other
Cody Bohler OL Fr. 6-7 305 Branchburg, N.J. Immaculata
Levi Brown DT Fr. 6-2 312 Bethlehem, Pa. Liberty
Blaze Caponegro LB Fr. 6-1 205 Allenwood, N.J. Wall Township
Chris Coyer QB Fr. 6-3 210 Vienna, Va. Oakton
Kadeem Custis DT Fr. 6-4 275 Philadelphia, Pa. Neumann-Goretti
Justin Gildea DB Fr. 5-11 180 Hollidaysburg, Pa. Hollidaysburg Area
Elijah Grant OL Fr. 6-6 340 Piscataway, N.J. Piscataway
Marcus Green LB Fr. 6-1 225 Scotch Plains, N.J. Scotch Plains-Fanwood
Aaron Hush DE Fr. 6-4 235 Piscataway, N.J. Piscataway
Alex Jackson * # DE Fr. 6-4 225 Dunnellon, Fla. Dunnellon / Milford Academy
Kamal Johnson DE Fr. 6-4 255 Willingboro, N.J. Willingboro
Kwame Johnson DB Jr. 5-11 185 Parkville, Md. Parkville / Valley Forge MA
Maurice Jones # LB Fr. 5-10 195 Belleville, N.J. Belleville / Fork Union MA
Brandon McManus PK/P Fr. 6-3 185 Hatfield, Pa. North Penn
Deon Miller WR Fr. 6-6 210 Highland Springs, Va. Highland Springs / Fork Union MA
Ryan Murray # OL Fr. 6-6 315 Philadelphia, Pa. Edward Bok Tech / Hargrave MA
Gary Onuekwusi LB Fr. 6-1 215 Baltimore, Md. Dunbar
Byron Parker DB Fr. 5-11 173 Virginia Beach, Va. Tallwood
Deonte Parker * DB Jr. 5-11 190 Lakeland, Fla. Lakeland / Feather River
Chris Parthemore TE Fr. 6-4 230 New Cumberland, Pa. Cedar Cliff
Shahid Paulhill # DL Fr. 6-3 295 Philadelphia, Pa. Northeast Catholic / Fork Union MA
Bernard Pierce RB Fr. 6-0 210 Concordville, Pa. Glen Mills
Geoffrey Prather # LB Fr. 6-2 210 Gulph Mills, Pa. Arch. Carroll / Valley Forge MA
Darryl Pringle OL Fr. 6-6 315 Reading, Pa. Reading
Evan Regas OL Fr. 6-4 320 Toms River, N.J. Toms River North
Jerry Watters WR Fr. 5-10 167 Cherry Hill, N.J. Camden Catholic
Jeff Whittingham DT Fr. 6-2 300 Atlantic City, N.J. Atlantic City

*Mid-year student that enrolled at Temple in January
# signed with Temple in 2008

Cody Bohler
Offensive Lineman
Freshman, 6-7, 305
Branchburg, N.J. (Immaculata HS)

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... three-year letterman at offensive tackle for coach Pierce Frauenheim at Immaculata HS ... first-team All-Area and first-team All-County selection ... also a second-team All-Non-Public, Rivals Top 50, NJFCA Super 100, and Recruits.com NJ Super 60 pick ... three-time player of the week ... had 55 pancake blocks as a senior ... helped team to three consecutive Skyland Conference championships ... team advanced to the non-public state championship all three years, winning the state title in 2006, his sophomore season ... invited to play in the New Jersey vs. the Northeast All-Star Game ... won the Alumni Award as the outstanding offensive lineman ... attended Big time Showcase and Nike Training Camp ... Homecoming king ... four-year Student Council representative ... member of S.A.D.D, R.E.B.E.L., and S.A.V.E. ... chose Temple over Army, Central Florida, and Syracuse.

Personal: Cody Thomas Bohler ... born June 13, 1990, in Somerville, N.J. ... parents are Karen and Tom Bohler ... has an older brother, Ryan (22), and sister, Courtney (20) ... uncle Jeff Brown was an All-Ivy League center at Cornell ... cousin Trevor Brown played defensive back at Southern Mississippi (1992) ... serves as a vacation bible school teacher ... recipient of the Campus Ministry Award ... enjoys working on and racing cars ... builds computers and writes software ... intends to study mechanical engineering.

Coach's Analysis: "Cody is a big and athletic player. He is an offensive lineman who is powerful and can control the line of scrimmage. He is an extremely bright player both on and off the field. He is a tough player that will add some demeanor to the offensive line position. Cody is the total package."

Levi Brown
Defensive Tackle
Freshman, 6-2, 312
Bethlehem, Pa. (Liberty HS)

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... played DT and OL for coach Tim Moncman at Liberty HS ... lead blocker and tackler on Liberty's PIAA Class 4A state championship team ... team finished first in the state rankings ... earned first-team Associated Press Class 4A All-State and Morning Call All-Area honors as a defensive lineman ... also a two-way first-team Lehigh Valley Conference selection ... as a junior, made 35 tackles, 15 TFL, and four sacks ... also had two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries ... chose Temple over Michigan State, Connecticut, and West Virginia.

Personal: Born May 12, 1991 ... parents are Gilda Valencia and Levi Brown, Sr. ... has a sister, Gildinna, and a brother, Quincy.

Coach's Analysis: "Levi is an explosive and very powerful player. He has a low center of gravity and uses that and his strength to command double teams. He is a very competitive player who has been part of a winning program, capped by this season's state championship. He will also bring strong leadership skills to the Owls when he arrives."

Blaze Caponegro
Linebacker
Freshman, 6-1, 205
Allenwood, N.J. (Wall Township HS)

Pronounced CAP-on-NAY-grow

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... 2008 All-State, All-Shore Conference, and All-County honoree for coach Chris Barnes at Wall Township HS ... three-year letterwinner at linebacker and running back ... named the 2008 Shore Conference Player of the Year ... ran for 350 yards against Manasquan ... team went 6-4 en route to the Liberty Division championship during his junior season in 2007 ... earned All-Conference, All-County and All-Division honors as a junior ... selected to play in the All-State Football Team Super 100 and in the New Jersey vs. North East All-Shore All-Star Games ... Honor Roll student ... chose Temple over Akron.

Personal: Blaze Vincent Caponegro ... born February 8, 1991, in Point Pleasant, N.J. ... parents are Tracy and Marc Caponegro ... has two brothers--Marc (20) and Connor (16)--and a younger sister, Gabrielle (11) ... father played football at Seton Hall ... enjoys surfing and swimming ... interested in business and law enforcement.

Coach's Analysis: "Blaze is an explosive and instinctive player. As an offensive player he has great vision and ability to make plays with the ball. He was a team captain and leader who brought toughness to his team. He is throwback type of player."

Chris Coyer
Quarterback
Freshman, 6-3, 210
Vienna, Va. (Oakton HS)

Pronounced COY-your

High School: Two-year team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... lefthanded quarterback for coach Joe Thompson at 2008 Northern Virginia champion Oakton HS ... 2008 Concorde District Offensive Player of the Year and Sun-Gazette Player of the Year ... 2008 all-VHSL Northern Region selection ... two-time All-Concorde District honoree ... named the Comcast Sports National Player of the Week (Nov. 2008) ... as a senior, completed 94-of-142 for 1,401 yards and 32 touchdowns ... also rushed for 1,287 yards on 110 carries ... the team won the 2005 state championship, his freshman year ... also lettered in basketball ... captained the hoops team for two seasons ... earned a starting role as a sophomore ... named a 2007 All-Concorde honoree ... has worked out with fellow lefty QB Tim Tebow, the 2007 Heisman winner from national champion Florida ... selected Temple over Ohio and Central Michigan.

Personal: Christopher Harris Coyer ... born August 27, 1990, in St. Louis Park, Minn. ... parents are Nancy and Chris Coyer ... has twin sisters-- Caroline and Katherine (15)-- who play basketball ... intends to study business.

Coach's Analysis: "Chris is a true dual threat quarterback who has the ability to hurt opponents with his arm and legs. He is an accurate passer with a Division I arm. He led his team from a losing record his junior season to 12-0 in the regular season and a 13-1 state semi-finalist showing, using his tremendous talent and leadership skills."

Kadeem Custis
Defensive Tackle
Freshman, 6-4, 275
Philadelphia, Pa. (Saints John Neumann& Maria HS)

Pronounced kuh-DEEM

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... played offensive tackle and defensive line for coach Bill Sytsma at Saints John Neumann & Maria Goretti HS... first-team All-Catholic League honoree at OL/DL ... second-team All-Catholic pick as a junior ... Honor Roll student ... chose Temple over West Virginia, Pittsburgh, North Carolina State, Maryland, Connecticut, NC State, and Duke.

Personal: Born July 22, 1991 ... mother is Jeanette Miller ... has two younger brothers-- Sharif and Jamal ... interested in a career in sports medicine or sports management.

Coach's Analysis: "Kadeem has a great combination of speed, size, and athleticism. He is a hardworking player that is also a weight room fanatic. His strength and size contribute to him being a very physical player at the point of attack. Kadeem is a natural pass rusher that is versatile enough to play any spot along the defensive line."

Justin Gildea
Defensive Back
Freshman, 5-11, 180
Hollidaysburg, Pa. (Hollidaysburg Area HS)

Pronounced GILL-day

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... three-year letterwinner at cornerback, wide receiver, and running back for coach John Barton at Hollidaysburg Area HS ... All-State honoree as a senior ... team went 10-2 in 2008, winning the Contain Conference championship and District 6 championship ... finished prep career with 26 touchdowns, 210 tackles, and 10 interceptions ... also a three-time All-Area, All-Mountain Conference, and All-County selection ... as a senior, had 19 touchdowns, 520 yards rushing, including 6.84 yards per carry ... in the air, had 522 yards on 37 receptions ... defensively, had 73 tackles, and five interceptions ... also returned kickoffs, averaging 28.75 yards per return ... chose Temple over Marshall, Kent State, Miami, and Ohio.

Personal: Justin Michael Gildea ... born August 15, 1990, in Altoona, Pa. ... parents are Deanne and Stephen Gildea ... has three sisters--Sarah (22), Hannah (15), and Theresa (8)--and a younger brother, Christopher (11) ... comes from a football family--uncles Tom Gildea (Villanova), Doug Rhodes (Navy), and Bill Gildea (Purdue) as well as cousin Corey Gildea (Lock Haven) each played collegiate football ... expected to enroll in the Fox School of Business.

Coach's Analysis: "Justin is a very athletic and versatile player. He was a very productive all-around player who has exceptional cover skills when playing defense and great ball skills when on offense. He has the ability to play several positions in the secondary for us. Justin is also a dynamic kick returner that will have a chance to use those skills in the fall."

Elijah Grant
Offensive Lineman
Freshman, 6-6, 340
Piscataway, N.J. (Piscataway HS)

High School: Two-way lineman for coach Dan Higgins at Piscataway HS ... started at right tackle ... helped the Chiefs to an 11-1 record en route to the 2008 North Jersey Section II Group IV title ... participated in the Chuck Mound Challenge at the Meadowlands.

Personal: Born July 8, 1991 ... parents are Diane and Floyd Grant ... joins fellow Piscataway teammate Aaron Hush as a Temple signee.

Coach's Analysis: "Elijah is an extremely large young man that has great feet and excellent flexibility for his size. He is a raw player that has great upside when he develops. He will have the ability to play guard or tackle at the college level."

Marcus Green
Linebacker
Freshman, 6-1, 225
Scotch Plains, N.J. (Scotch Plains-Fanwood HS)

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... two-way standout for coach Steve Ciccotelli at Scotch Plains-Fanwood HS ... played fullback and linebacker positions ... Newark Star-Ledger second-team All-State honoree ... 2008 Union County Player of the Year ... earned All-Union County, All-Watchung Conference, and All-Area honors in 2007 ... as a junior, had eight touchdowns and 80 tackles ... letterwinner in basketball ... also a pitcher and outfielder for the baseball team ... Honor Roll student ... selected Temple over NC State and Syracuse.

Personal: Born May 29, 1991 ... parents are Anne and Tim Green, Sr. ... has a younger brother, Tim Jr., who plays football at Lincoln University ... plans to study business.

Coach's Analysis: "Marcus is an explosive and physical player that has been very productive on both sides of the ball. He is a very smart and studious player both on and off the field. He is a player that plays with a great motor and will bring that energy and enthusiasm to the team."

Aaron Hush
Defensive End
Freshman, 6-4, 235
Piscataway, N.J. (Piscataway HS)

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... played defensive end and tight end for coach Dan Higgins at Piscataway HS ... as a senior, had six sacks and 27 TFL ... Newark Star-Ledger First-team All-State honoree and Middlesex County Player of the Year ... 2008 Home News Tribune Defensive Player of the Year and All-Area selection ... as a junior, had 65 tackles and seven sacks while helping the Chiefs to the North 2 Group IV Championship ... competed in the BigTime Football Showcase ... will participate in the 2009 New Jersey-North East All-Star Classic ... also lettered in basketball ... selected Temple over Akron and Iowa.

Personal: Born April 23, 1991 ... father is Arnold May ... guardian is Lisa May ... grandmother is Mollie May ... joins fellow Piscataway teammate Elijah Grant as a Temple signee.

Coach's Analysis: "Aaron is an explosive and physical edge rusher. He uses his hands very well and that translates into being an active defensive player that does not get tied up on blocks. He is also a high motor guy that should fit in very well with our defense."

Alex Jackson
Defensive End
Freshman, 6-4, 225
Dunnellon, Fla. (Dunnellon HS / Milford Academy)

Postgraduate: Played tight end for one season for coach Bill Chaplick at Milford (N.Y.) Academy ... team went 9-3.

High School: Played defensive end at Dunnellon HS for coach Frank Beasley ... first year football player for the Tigers ... finished with 45 tackles and eight sacks ... a 2007 "Super "Sleeper" ... 2007 Iron Man Club/Dunnellon Football Award recipient ... also a four-year letterwinner in basketball ... earned All-Area and All-Star accolades on the hardwood ... named to the all-tournament team at the 2007 Tim Brinkley Tournament ... named MVP of the Villages Tournament (Dec. 2007) ... Team MVP for the 2006-07 basketball season.

Personal: Born Dec. 24, 1989, in Ocala, Fla. ... guardians are Sheila and Charlie Patterson ... has two brothers-- Adrian Jones (26) and the late Dreyton Wilkerson-- and an older, sister Ciara Stephenson (20).

Coach's Analysis: "Alex is an extremely talented but raw player that plays the game with great energy. He is an emotional and physical defender that is strong enough to stop plays and fast enough to chase them down from behind. Alex has an explosive first step that makes him a great pass rusher. He is a relentless player with a great motor that has tremendous upside."

Kamal Johnson
Defensive End
Freshman, 6-4, 255
Willingboro, N.J. (Willingboro HS)

Pronounced kuh-MALL

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... played defensive end and tight end for coach Nelson Hayspell at Willingboro HS ... All-State honoree ... selected Temple over South Florida and Syracuse.

Personal: Born December 9, 1991 ... parents are Keith Johnson, Martine Velez (stepmother), and Alisa Johnson (mother)... has two older brothers-- Keith (25), Khary (19)-- and a younger sister, Kalena (3) ... interested in business or engineering.

Coach's Analysis: "Kamal is a defensive lineman with great range and excellent change of direction. He is a raw player that has a long reach and great growth potential. He is physical at the point of attack and will be able to play many positions along the defensive front."

Kwame Johnson
Defensive Back
Junior, 5-11, 185
Parkville, Md. (Parkville HS / Valley Forge Military Academy)

Pronounced QWAH-me

Postgraduate: Played cornerback for two seasons for coach Don DiCarlo at Valley Forge Military Academy ... First-Team All-Seaboard Conference selection in 2008 ... had 32 tackles, 10 break-ups, and two interceptions.

High School: 2007 graduate ... played for coach John Marquette at Parkville HS ... as a senior, helped the Knights to a playoff berth ... also an All-State, All-County, and All-Metro honoree in track ... ran the 55-, 100-, and 200-meter dashes ... won the 2007 state championship in the 200 meters (21.55) ... captured first place at the indoor and outdoor county championships ... named to the 2007 Baltimore Sun's first-team All-Metro and All-County Boys' Track Team.

Personal: Born September 4, 1989 ... raised by grandparents George and Ernestine Johnson ... has two brothers-- Jamal, who played linebacker at Georgia Tech (1991-94), and Irvin, who is a junior on the basketball team at Clark University ... interested in criminal justice.

Coach's Analysis: "Kwame is a dynamic athlete that comes from a family of athletes. He has quick and live feet and combines that with excellent ball skills. He is a very fast and physical player whose instinctive ball-hawking play will be a great addition to our secondary."

Maurice Jones
Defensive Back
Freshman, 5-10, 195
Belleville, N.J. (Belleville HS / Fork Union Military Academy)

Postgraduate: Played one season at cornerback for coach John Shuman at Fork Union Military Academy ... joins FUMA teammates Shahid Paulhill and Deon Miller as Temple signees.

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2007 Al Golden Football Camp ... played safety and running back at Belleville HS for coach Joe Fischer ... first-team All-State Group 4 ... second-team All-State by the Newark Star Ledger ... the Buccaneers earned a state playoff berth in 2007 ... had 51 carries for 622 yards and five touchdowns ... selected to the Governor's Bowl ... as a junior, rushed for 500 yards ... also grabbed nine interceptions and ran a kickoff return 91 yards for a score ... ran the 100 meters in 10.7 seconds for the track team ... a starter for the basketball team ... chose Temple over North Carolina.

Personal: Born July 2, 1989 ... parents are Tracey Jones and Robert Henry ... has an older brother, Travis Jones, and a twin brother, Marcus Jones ... originally from North Carolina ... played against Owl junior DB Anthony Ferla in high school.

Coach's Analysis: "Maurice is the total package. His athleticism would allow him to play on either side of the ball. His range, quickness, instincts, and toughness allow him to be a tremendous player in the defensive secondary. We believe that he should have an immediate impact in the secondary and on special teams."

Brandon McManus
Placekicker/Punter
Freshman, 6-3, 185
Hatfield, Pa. (North Penn HS)

High School: Attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... selected for the 2009 Big 33 All-Star Game ... four-year letterwinner at placekicker and punter for coach Dick Beck (Temple football 1987-90) at North Penn HS ... First-Team All-Suburban One Conference and First-Team Times-Herald All-Area as a senior ...made a perfect 78-of-78 PATs in 2008 ... 68 of 80 kickoffs were touchbacks ... in his prep career, made 15-of-22 field goals, seven FG were longer than 40 yards ... had 229 career points ... helped team to two district championships (2008, 2005) and two conference championships (2008, 2006) during his four years ... earned Honorable Mention All-State, first-team All-League, and first-team All-Area as a junior after making a school record and District 1 record 55-yard field goal ... as a sophomore in 2006, earned first-team All-League and first-team All-Area accolades ... as a freshman, named second-team All-League ... Honor Roll student ... chose Temple over Northwestern, Pittsburgh, and Purdue.

Personal: Brandon Tyler McManus ... born July 25, 1991, in Philadelphia, Pa. ... parents are Susan and Dennis McManus ... has an older sister, Lauren (20) ... mother played basketball and tennis at Philadelphia University ... sister plays soccer at Slippery Rock ...plans to major in kinesiology ... wants to become an orthopedic surgeon.

Coach's Analysis: "Brandon is a kicking specialist with a very explosive leg. He is a kicker whose ball explodes off his foot and creates excellent hang times and height on his kicks. He has the ability to contribute as a field goal kicker, punter, or kickoff specialist."

Deon Miller
Wide Receiver
Freshman, 6-6, 210
Highland Springs, Va. (Highland Springs HS / Fork Union Military Academy)

Postgraduate: Played one season at cornerback for coach John Shuman at Fork Union Military Academy ... joins FUMA teammates Maurice Jones and Shahid Paulhill as Temple signees.

High School: Team captain ... played for coach Scott Burton at Highland Springs HS ... ranked as a three-star recruit by Rivals ... first-team All-Capital District honoree ... Richmond Times-Dispatch Honorable Mention All-Metro pick as a senior, had 29 catches for 509 yards and six touchdowns ...averaged 21 yards per catch in 2007 as a senior for the Springers ... selected Temple over Connecticut.

Personal: Born September 18, 1989 ... mother is Latosha Lewis ... has eight sisters and a brother.

Coach's Analysis: "Deon is a tall, big, and explosive perimeter athlete. He has good speed and the ability to stretch the field with his effortless stride. His long reach and height make him a target for end zone fade routes."

Ryan Murray
Offensive Lineman
Freshman, 6-6, 315
Philadelphia, Pa. (Edward Bok Tech / Hargrave Military Academy)

Postgraduate: Played one season at offensive tackle for coach Robert Prunty at Hargrave Military Academy.

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2007 Al Golden Football Camp ... played tackle at Bok Tech for coach Tom DeFelice, a former Owl quarterback (1965-67) ... helped Bok Tech to back-to-back division championships ... team went 11-1 his senior season in 2007 ... rated the third best OT in Pennsylvania as a senior ... 2007 first-team Associated Press Pennsylvania Class AAA All-State selection ... first-team All-Southeastern Pennsylvania honoree ... first-team All-Public ... defensively as a senior, forced a fumble and recorded three sacks ... first-team All-State honoree ... second-team All-City by the Philadelphia Daily News ... selected for the All-City All-Star Game ... as a junior, forced three fumbles and had three sacks ... All-Public and All-City selection as a junior ... also played basketball as a sophomore ... received the Leadership Award twice (2004, 2005).

Personal: Ryan D. Murray ... born February 12, 1990, in Philadelphia, Pa. ... mother is Leticia Woodson ... has a younger sister, Ashley Woodson (13).

Coach's Analysis: "Ryan is a young man in a huge body. He is an offensive tackle from the City that has his best years of football ahead of him. He is a very good athlete for being 6-6 and over 300 lbs. and has the chance to develop into a dominant offensive lineman."

Gary Onuekwusi
Linebacker
Freshman, 6-1, 215
Baltimore, Md. (Paul Laurence Dunbar HS)

Pronounced AH-nuh-KOO-see

High School: Played linebacker and defensive end for coach Lawrence Smith at Dunbar HS ... top tackler as a senior, helping the Poets to their third consecutive Class 1A state championship in 2008 ... first-team Small School All-State and first-team Baltimore Sun All-Metro honoree ... as a senior, had 156 tackles, three sacks, and five forced fumbles ... as a junior, had 102 tackles, eight sacks, six forced fumbles, and intercepted two passes ... returned one interception for a 25-yard touchdown, and two fumble recoveries for TDs ... also throws the shot put for the track team.

Personal: Born July 23, 1990 ... mother is Rigina Onuekwusi ... has two sisters-- Jennifer (23) and Udoka (10)-- and an older brother, Travis (20).

Coach's Analysis: "Gary is violent high contact hitter that arrives at the ball carrier with an attitude. He plays with great emotion and passion for the game. He has the motor and athleticism to make plays from sideline to sideline."

Byron Parker
Defensive Back
Freshman, 5-11, 173
Virginia Beach, Va. (Tallwood HS)

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... two-way starter for coach Thad Harold at Tallwood HS ... played at the running back and defensive back positions ... ... first-team All-Tidewater and first-team All-Beach District ... helped the Lions to an 8-2 record as a sophomore ... also a member of the basketball and track teams ... selected Temple over East Carolina, Bowling Green, and Ohio.

Personal: Byron Keith Parker, Jr. ... born October 21, 1990, in Harrisburg, Pa. ... parents are Valerie and Byron Parker, Sr. ... has a younger sister, Saria (13) .

Coach's Analysis: "Byron is a very good athlete that has terrific ball skills. As a defensive player he has exceptional cover skills, and as an offensive player he is dynamic with the ball in his hands. He has the ability to play on either side of the ball at the college level."

Deonte Parker
Defensive Back
Junior, 5-11, 190
Lakeland, Fla. (Lakeland Senior HS / Feather River College)

Postgraduate: Two-way player and two-year starter for coach Tom Simi at Feather River College in California ... All-Mid-Empire Conference honoree ... team advanced to the 2008 Eagle Bowl, the team's sixth appearance in seven years ... had 30 tackles, three forced fumbles, and two interceptions.

High School: A 2006 graduate ... played defensive back for coach Bill Castle at Lakeland Senior HS ... helped the team win the state championship as a senior ... had 56 tackles and five interceptions ... also lettered in track and field ... selected Temple over UNLV and South Florida.

Personal: Deonte Lamont Parker ... born December 1, 1986, in Orlando, Fla. ... parents are Sonya Parker and Tony Holmes ... has two brothers-- Tony Parker (24) and Twan Kirby (19)-- and two sisters-- Shanice Parker (20) and Sharice Parker (17) ... intends to study criminal justice.

Coach's Analysis: "Deonte is a good athlete with excellent feet. In coverage he has great transition to the ball. He is a physical tackler that is always around the football. He will vie to be one of the fastest Owls."

Chris Parthemore
Tight End
Freshman, 6-4, 230
New Cumberland, Pa. (Cedar Cliff HS)

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... three-year letterwinner at tight end and defensive end for coach Jim Cantafio ... ranked as the nation's No. 86 tight end prospect by Scout.com ... ranked among the nation's "Fab 50" tight ends ... Honorable Mention Mid-Penn/Keystone Division honoree ... as a senior, had 22 receptions for 328 yards and four touchdowns ... defensively, had six sacks ... also a three-year letterwinner in baseball and basketball.

Personal: Christopher Joseph Parthemore ... born December 20, 1990, in Harrisburg, Pa. ... parents are Joanna and Gib Parthemore ... has an older brother, Gib (21), who attends the University of Pittsburgh ... family owns a funeral home ... uncle Mark Ulsh played football at Temple (1974-75) ... father played football and baseball at West Virginia ...volunteered with Cedar Cliff youth football, basketball, and baseball programs ... intends to study business.

Coach's Analysis: "Chris is an excellent big athlete with very good hands. He runs well and has great ball skills which allow him to be a target all over the field. He is a player that has a great upside and tons of potential."

Shahid Paulhill
Defensive Lineman
Freshman, 6-3, 295
Philadelphia, Pa. (Northeast Catholic HS / Fork Union Military Academy)

Pronounced sha-HEED paul-hill

Postgraduate: Played one season for coach John Shuman at Fork Union Military Academy joins FUMA teammates Maurice Jones and Deon Miller as Temple signees.

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2007 Al Golden Football Camp ... first-team All-Catholic League honoree at defensive end for coach Charlie Szydlik at Northeast Catholic HS ... first-team All-City and first-team All-Catholic League by the Philadelphia Daily News ... played in the Big 33 All-Star game, recording five tackles and two sacks ... also started on the basketball team for the Falcons and the Philadelphia Patriots AAU team.

Personal: Born October 31, 1990 ... son of Terresa and Kevin Paulhill ... siblings are Shanika (21), Christian (21), and Shakira (13) ... interested in criminal justice.

Coach's Analysis: "Shahid is a very versatile first-team All-Catholic League selection. In high school he played defensive end, tight end, and offensive tackle. He has tremendous feet and natural athletic ability. He currently starts on the Catholic League-leading Northeast basketball team."

Bernard Pierce
Running Back
Freshman, 6-0, 210
Concordville, Pa. (Glen Mills School)

High School: Attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... played for coach Kevin Owens at the Glen Mills School ... as a senior, rushed for 1,500 yards and 26 touchdowns ... Second-Team Class AAAA All-State selection as a junior ... also a member of the track team ... ran the 100 meters in 10.6 seconds, the fastest time in the state.

Personal: Born May 10, 1991 ... mother is Tammy Pierce ... intends to major in sports medicine.

Coach's Analysis: "Bernard is a big, strong downhill runner who is very elusive for his size. He has breakaway speed and is a threat to go the distance every time that he touches the ball. He has great hands, allowing him to be a threat when catching the ball out of the backfield. He has superior vision and instincts for the game and that contributes to his success running the ball."

Geoffrey Prather
Linebacker
Freshman, 6-2, 210
Gulph Mills, Pa. (Archbishop Carroll HS / Valley Forge Military Academy)

Postgraduate: Played one season for coach Don DiCarlo at Valley Forge Military Academy ... earned All-Combine honors at the U.S. Army All-American Junior Combine and at the Scout.com All-American Combine in New Jersey.

High School: Attended the 2007 Al Golden Football Camp ... three-star recruit by Scout.com ... ranked No. 37 on the Pittsburgh Sports Insider's PA's Top 50 High School Players list ... played linebacker, safety, wide receiver, and kick returner for coach Dan Bielli at Archbishop Carroll HS ... first-team Scout.com All-Combine honoree ... team went 10-3 in his senior season ... selected to the East-West All-Star Game ... 2007 preseason SportsFever magazine All-State pick ... played defensive back as a sophomore and then linebacker as a junior ... didn't play football until ninth grade ... also played baseball.

Personal: Born June 9, 1990 ... son of Jackie and Charles Prather ... has several family members who are Temple alumni.

Coach's Analysis: "Geoff is one of those players that you look at physically and know he has the ability to be very good. He has the muscular definition of a much older player in his upper body. As a football player he is very athletic and attacks the ball carrier. His athletic ability allows him to drop into coverage and be a factor that quarterbacks have to deal with."

Darryl Pringle
Offensive Lineman
Freshman, 6-6, 315
Reading, Pa. (Reading HS)

High School: Two-year team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... played on the offensive and defensive lines for coach Preston McKnight at Reading HS ... two-time All-Lancaster-Lebanon League honoree ... 2008 BCFCA first-team All-Berks County and All-Section selection at offensive tackle ... recipient of the 2008 Northwest Athletic Association Award ... also a two-year letterwinner in basketball ... selected Temple over Pittsburgh, Syracuse, and Akron.

Personal: Darryl Thomas Lee Pringle ... born September 24, 1990, in Philadelphia, Pa. ... mother is Kenyatta Cade ... has a younger brother, Darren (12) ...volunteered at the Lifeline Youth Center.

Coach's Analysis: "Darryl is a physically gifted player for his size. He has excellent hands and great strength in his punch. He is a physically dominant player at the point of attack. He will be a candidate for the left tackle position."

Evan Regas
Offensive Lineman
Freshman, 6-4, 320
Toms River, N.J. (Toms River HS North)

Pronounced REE-gus

High School: Three-year letterman at guard and tackle for coach Chip LaBarca at Toms River HS North ... first-team All-Shore Conference and first-team All-Ocean County honoree in 2008 ... named to the 2008 New Jersey Super 100 ... team went 26-6 during his three seasons ... won the 2007 and 2008 Shore Division championship .... as a junior, helped the Mariners to a perfect 12-0 season, their first undefeated season in the school's 39-year history, en route to the state championship ... team also won the 2007 state sectional championship ... made 32 consecutive starts, never missed a down in three seasons ... participated in the Shore 44 All-Star Game ... also a four-year letterwinner in shot put for indoor and outdoor track ... Honor Roll student ... four-year T.E.A.M. member, registering more than 60 hours of community service.

Personal: Evangelos E. Regas ... born March 29, 1991, Toms River, N.J. ... parents are George Regas and Susan Untoria ... interested in physical education ... played against Temple signee Jeffrey Whittingham in the 2007 state playoffs.

Coach's Analysis: "Evan is a powerful and physical blocker at the point of attack. He has tremendous flexibility for a big young man. He is an avid weight room guy and possesses a 400-pound bench press."

Jerry Watters
Wide Receiver
Freshman, 5-10, 167
Cherry Hill, N.J. (Camden Catholic HS)

High School: First player to commit to the Owls' 2009 recruiting class ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... played wide receiver and defensive back for coach Rick Brown at Camden Catholic ... as a senior had 43 catches for 882 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 20.5 yards per catch ... as a junior, had 46 receptions for 672 yards and eight touchdowns while helping the team to an 8-2 record ... participated in the 2008 U.S. Army National Combine in San Antonio ... picked Temple over Syracuse and Iowa.

Personal: Born July 23, 1991 ... parents are Pam and Jerry Watters, Sr. ... has three older sisters-- twins Kelly and Kim (30), and Conchita (22) ... mother has worked at Temple for 24 years, 14 years in the Bursar's Office and and 10 years in Student Financial Services.

Coach's Analysis: "Jerry is a fluid athlete who has excellent body control. He has excellent ball skills and is an explosive play maker. He is a very dangerous player with the ball in his hands."

Jeff Whittingham
Defensive Tackle
Freshman, 6-2, 300
Atlantic City, N.J. (Atlantic City HS)

High School: Team captain ... attended the 2008 Al Golden Football Camp ... two-way lineman and three-year starter who played for coach Bob Weiss at Atlantic City HS ... played offensive tackle, defensive tackle and nose guard ... Press of Atlantic City first-team All-Area honoree as a senior ... helped the Vikings with 57 tackles and nine sacks ... earned All-South Jersey, first-team All-Cape Atlantic League, and first-team All-Group IV honors at left tackle as a junior ... selected Temple over Cincinnati and Syracuse.

Personal: Jeffrey Omarii Whittingham ... born December 14, 1990 ... parents are Janice Wells and Horace Whittingham ... has a younger brother, Jordan Whittingham (14), and a younger sister, Jasmine Wells (9) ... parents are Philadelphia natives ... has large feet, wearing size 18 EEE shoes ... played against Temple signee Evan Regas in the 2007 state playoffs.

Coach's Analysis: "Jeff has great speed and quickness for a defensive lineman. He is a powerful player that can hold the point of attack well and control the line of scrimmage. He is a pass rusher that has the ability to push the pocket and force the passer to his edge rushers."