New Mexico Bowl 2011 Final Score: Temple Wins First Bowl Since 1979

Read More: Bernard Pierce (RB - Temple), Chris Coyer (QB - Temple), Temple Owls, Wyoming Cowboys

The Temple Owls remain on the rise, posting their second nine-win season in three years, their first bowl victory in 32 and their third four-loss campaign in a row. The latest Owls glory comes at the expense of the Wyoming Cowboys, who lose the 2011 New Mexico Bowl, 37-15, with the latter score coming in garbage time.

As far as bowl season openers go, this one was quite a dud, especially given that Nelly has apparently replaced B.o.B. as this year's relentless interstitial musician.

Temple did it on the ground, putting up 253 yards and led by Bernard Pierce's 99. But Chris Coyer was effective when called upon, throwing for 169 yards and a touchdown on only 12 attempts. The Owls defense held star freshman Brett Smith to 127 yards and three interceptions on 30 tries.

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