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Temple names Anthony Russo its starting QB for the opener

Russo had been nursing a calf injury, but returned to practice Monday and has passed every physical test.

Anthony Russo is healthy enough to start Temple's season opener Saturday.
Anthony Russo is healthy enough to start Temple's season opener Saturday.Read moreYong Kim

To nobody’s surprise, Anthony Russo will start at quarterback for Temple when the Owls open their season at 3 p.m. Saturday against Bucknell at Lincoln Financial Field.

Coach Rod Carey said he would make the announcement before practice Wednesday because he wanted the starter to receive more reps in practice.

Rich Burg, sports information director for Temple football, tweeted out the information.

Russo suffered a calf injury on Aug. 12 and didn’t return as to practice full time until Monday. That was a light practice, said Carey, who added that the real test would be Tuesday.

The redshirt junior went through a rigorous workout Tuesday and said he felt great. The key was if he had any soreness Wednesday, and evidently, things checked out.

In Russo’s absence, redshirt sophomore Todd Centeio, a dual threat, was taking the first-team reps.

Russo made 10 starts last year and completed nearly 58% of his passes for 2,563 yards and 14 touchdowns.

The Owls are coming off an 8-5 season. Bucknell was 1-10 last year.