Temple University students, faculty, staff and alumni are buzzing with excitement as ESPN’s College GameDay heads to Philadelphia this week.

The popular college football pregame show will visit the City of Brotherly Love as No. 21/22-ranked Temple gets ready to host No. 9/9-ranked Notre Dame on Halloween night at a sold-out Lincoln Financial Field (kickoff at 8 p.m. on ABC). College GameDay will originate from Philadelphia’s iconic Independence Mall that morning.

The undefeated Owls, who are 7-0, are off to the best start in program history, creating tremendous enthusiasm on campus, on social media and throughout the city.

“I’ve often said that athletics has the ability to generate excitement and pride like no other campus activity,” said Temple President Neil D. Theobald. "This has been a breakthrough year for Temple by every measure, and our 7-0 start has electrified this city. We are proud to celebrate our university and the city of Philadelphia on a national stage.”

Theobald praised Mayor Michael A. Nutter, Sen. Bob Casey and Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick for their help in making it possible for ESPN to broadcast from the city. “The support of those state and local leaders has been invaluable,” he said.

College GameDay draws thousands of cheering fans to its traveling live production, which airs from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Saturdays. The College GameDay bus arrives in host cities a few days in advance of the show.

“The buzz across campus and the way this team brings together students has been tremendous,” said Temple Student Government President Ryan K. Rinaldi. “Now, with College GameDay visiting, it’s time to dial up our energy even more and show the country that there’s no better time to be a Temple Owl.”

More details will be shared on owlsports.com as soon as they are available. All Owls fans are invited to attend GameDay activities and show their Temple pride.

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