Watch CBS News

Excitement Growing For Temple Versus Nationally Ranked Villanova

By Diana Rocco

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Excitement is building across Temple's campus for the big 5 match up against the nationally ranked number 1 Villanova Wildcats.

Dan Bartels, a sophomore, says, "We're going to beat Villanova. On to tournament."

Will Bistline adds, "Villanova hasn't impressed me."

The Temple Owls are on a hot streak, winning their last five games and upsetting three top 25 teams this season.

Bartels says, "Our defense is going to have to play well."

While students are wearing their Temple pride and hoping for an upset, not everyone is convinced.

"I believe. I think we can."

Jason Ivey, a former player, says, "A lot on the line for both teams. Big 5 is always a competitive good game."

Former coach and Temple player Jason Ivey flew in from Alabama for the game. He was on the 95-96 team that beat Villanova ranked number 2 that year.

He says anything can happen when titles are on the line.

WATCH: Fran Dunphy And Jay Wright Talk About Temple vs. Villanova

"Nova's number one, Temple needs to win to make tournament big 5. It's going to be a good game."

Student tickets are on a first come first serve basis, so the line starts early. Many will be rushing to the Liacouras Center as soon as doors open.

Kajal Patel says, "Right after we get out of class at 5 we're running over."

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.