Where Does Temple Play Football?

If you are curious where Temple University plays its home football games, you are not alone. Many people expect a big university to have an on-campus stadium, but Temple’s setup is a little different. The Temple Owls play their home games at Lincoln Financial Field in South Philadelphia, the same NFL stadium used by the Philadelphia Eagles. This large, modern venue gives Temple fans a big-league experience with easy access, great sightlines, and plenty of space for tailgating and pregame fun. In this guide, you will find everything you need to know about where Temple plays, how to get there, what game day feels like, and how Temple’s football home has changed over time.

Quick Answer

Temple University plays its home football games at Lincoln Financial Field in South Philadelphia. The stadium is part of the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and is commonly called “The Linc.” It sits a few miles from Temple’s main campus, and it is reachable by car, public transit, and rideshare. This is a full-size NFL stadium with around 69,000 seats, modern amenities, and a lively atmosphere on college game days.

The Stadium Temple Calls Home

What and where is Lincoln Financial Field?

Lincoln Financial Field is a large, open-air football stadium located in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, a hub that also includes Citizens Bank Park and the Wells Fargo Center. The stadium’s address is 1 Lincoln Financial Field Way, Philadelphia, PA 19148. Locals simply call it “The Linc.” On Temple game days, the venue is decorated with cherry and white graphics, Owls logos, and on-field branding that makes it clear this NFL building belongs to Temple for the afternoon or evening.

Why the NFL setting helps Temple fans

Playing in an NFL stadium gives Temple fans strong benefits. The sightlines were designed for football, so seats across the lower and upper decks usually have clear views of the field. The video boards are large and bright. Concessions and restrooms are spread around the concourses, and there are many entrances that keep lines moving. For families, there is plenty of space to walk and places to take a short break if younger fans need it. For students and alumni, the size and sound of the crowd can feel electric, especially during big conference games or a visit from a high-profile opponent.

Capacity, comfort, and accessibility

The Linc seats roughly 69,000 fans for football. Not every Temple game uses the full building, but the stadium’s design makes it flexible. College games often open several seating areas that create a focused, high-energy atmosphere near the field while also offering room for larger crowds when needed. The venue was built with modern accessibility features, including elevators, ramps, and designated ADA seating. If you or someone in your group needs assistance, you can contact Temple Athletics or the stadium’s guest services in advance to arrange support on game day.

How Temple transforms the building

On Temple game days, you will see Temple’s colors, flags, and signs around the stadium. The end zones and midfield logos feature Owls marks, and the in-game music and video content highlight Temple students, alumni, and traditions. The band, spirit squads, and Hooter the Owl mascot help turn an NFL home into a college campus away from campus. It feels like Temple’s house, even though the Eagles play there on other weekends.

Getting There: Transportation and Parking

Using public transit with the Broad Street Line

One of the easiest ways to reach Temple home games is by subway. Take SEPTA’s Broad Street Line to NRG Station, which is the last stop at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex. From there, it is a short walk to the stadium. On game days, trains run often, and rides are simple and affordable. Coming from Temple’s main campus, students can board the Broad Street Line at Cecil B. Moore or Susquehanna-Dauphin stations and ride straight down to NRG with a single transfer-free trip.

Driving directions and arrival tips

If you plan to drive, the stadium sits near major routes like I-76 (the Schuylkill Expressway), I-95, and the Walt Whitman Bridge. Traffic tends to build closer to kickoff, so give yourself extra time. Many fans aim to arrive several hours before the game to enjoy tailgating and avoid the last-minute rush. Follow signs for the South Philadelphia Sports Complex and pay attention to digital boards that direct you to open lots. Using a navigation app is helpful, but stadium signage is clear as you get close.

Parking at the Sports Complex

Parking is available in multiple surface lots around the stadium area. Prices can vary by game and location. Some lots are better for tailgating, while others are best for a quick in-and-out visit. If you prefer a smoother exit, consider parking a bit farther from the stadium or near a roadway you plan to use for your drive home. If you want a lively pregame scene, choose a tailgate-friendly lot and arrive early. Keep in mind that rules on grills, tents, and open flames may differ by lot, so read the posted guidelines and check Temple’s game day info before you go.

Rideshare and drop-off zones

Rideshare is a flexible option, especially for evening games or if you would rather not deal with parking. The Sports Complex usually designates pickup and drop-off points on game days. Plan your pickup location before the final whistle to avoid confusion when crowds leave the building. It helps to walk a block or two away from the stadium to meet your driver where traffic flows more easily.

Temple Game Day: What It Feels Like

Tailgating in cherry and white

Temple fans love to tailgate. On game days, the lots fill with red and white tents, grills, and music. The vibe is friendly and welcoming. You will see alumni reconnecting with classmates, families setting up lawn chairs, and students starting chants. If you want to join the fun, bring simple food to share and a small setup that follows the lot rules. Many lots open several hours before kickoff. Always double-check the schedule because opening times can vary by game time and event schedules around the Sports Complex.

Student section energy

The student section turns the stadium into a true college environment. Students arrive early, stand most of the game, and lead chants that echo throughout the lower bowl. If you are a student, make sure to check how to claim your ticket through Temple Athletics. The band, cheer squad, and dance team are often positioned near the students, so the noise and spirit feel focused and powerful. Even if you are not in the student section, you will hear the chants and feel the energy they bring.

Traditions to watch for

Temple’s colors are cherry and white, and you will see those colors everywhere. The marching band brings big sound to pregame and halftime. Hooter the Owl roams the sidelines and the concourses to take photos with fans. You will also hear the fight song and classic “T for Temple U” chants after big plays. For alumni, these traditions feel like home. For new fans, they are an easy way to join in and feel part of the Owls community.

Food and concessions

Because this is an NFL stadium, food options are wide and varied. Expect classic stadium fare like hot dogs, pretzels, and fries, plus local favorites inspired by Philadelphia’s food culture. You can usually find cheesesteaks, chicken cutlets, and soft pretzels with mustard. Lines move faster if you arrive early or visit during a quieter moment in the game. Some stands accept only cards or mobile payments, so it helps to have a credit card or digital wallet ready.

Tickets, Seating, and Best Views

How to buy tickets

Temple sells tickets through its athletics website and authorized ticket partners. Buying early usually gives you better seat choices and prices. For popular games, plan ahead. Students often have a different claim process tied to their ID, so they should check their campus email or the student ticketing page. If you use third-party resale sites, compare prices and make sure you are purchasing from a trusted source.

Picking your seat

For the best overall view, many fans choose lower-level seats along the sidelines, between the 20-yard lines. If you want a wider perspective, the club level and the first few rows of the upper deck offer a clean look at the whole field and both end zones. If you love being near the band and student section, aim for nearby sections in the lower bowl. For budget-conscious fans, corners and higher rows are usually more affordable and still provide strong sightlines in a stadium designed for football.

Family-friendly choices

Families with young children often prefer seats away from the loudest parts of the student section. Look for areas with easy access to restrooms and family-friendly concessions. Arriving early helps you settle in, find your aisle quickly, and grab snacks before the first quarter starts. If noise is a concern, bring small ear protection for kids. The atmosphere is exciting, but it can get loud during big moments.

Accessibility seating and services

The Linc provides accessible seating and services across multiple sections. If you need wheelchair-accessible locations or companion seats, contact the ticket office ahead of time so they can guide you to the best options. The stadium staff is experienced with large crowds, and guest services can help with elevators, ramps, and directions. Planning early makes the day easier and more enjoyable.

Weather and what to wear

College football runs from late summer into late fall, and Philadelphia weather can change quickly. Early-season games can be hot, so bring sunscreen and a hat. Mid-season games are often perfect for a light jacket. Late-season kickoffs can be chilly, and the wind may feel stronger in the upper deck. Layer up in cherry and white, and check the forecast the morning of the game. Ponchos are better than umbrellas in stadium seating because they do not block the view.

Temple Football Venues Through the Years

Temple Stadium: the early home

Long before the Owls played at an NFL venue, Temple had its own football stadium in the city. Temple Stadium opened in 1928 in Northwest Philadelphia and served as the home field for decades. It was a proud symbol of the program and hosted memorable games in the mid-20th century. Over time, the building aged, and college football changed. By the 1970s, Temple needed a different home to keep up with modern stadium expectations.

Franklin Field and city venues

As Temple’s schedule evolved, the team played some games at Franklin Field, the historic stadium on the University of Pennsylvania’s campus. Franklin Field is one of America’s oldest football sites and has its own deep traditions, especially around track and field. It provided a place for Temple to host larger crowds and keep the program visible in the city. While not a permanent solution, it showed that Temple could thrive in bigger Philadelphia venues.

Veterans Stadium era

Starting in the late 1970s, Temple used Veterans Stadium, the old multi-purpose building that also hosted the Phillies and the Eagles. “The Vet” had massive seating and a distinctive circular design. Many Temple fans remember cold November games there, with the breeze cutting across the upper deck. It was not a perfect college setting, but it gave the Owls a big stage, good capacity, and room to grow. When the Eagles and Phillies moved into new buildings in the early 2000s, Temple also prepared for a new home.

The move to Lincoln Financial Field

In 2003, Temple began playing at Lincoln Financial Field, the Eagles’ new stadium. This move gave the Owls a modern football home with improved sightlines, upgraded fan amenities, and better access to transit and parking. Since then, the Linc has been the place most people picture when they think of Temple football. The setting has hosted major opponents, bowl-eligible seasons, and ranked showdowns that drew city-wide attention.

Why Not On Campus?

The on-campus stadium idea

Over the years, Temple explored the idea of building an on-campus football stadium. The concept often centered on a mid-sized venue that would seat far fewer fans than the Linc but offer the classic college feel, with the field a short walk from lecture halls and residence halls. Many fans liked the vision of Saturday strolls to the game, with student tailgates lining campus streets.

Community, cost, and logistics

Building a new stadium in a busy city neighborhood is complex. Costs can be high, space is limited, and community voices matter. Temple listened to neighbors and stakeholders who had concerns about noise, traffic, and the impact on daily life. The university also weighed the economics of maintaining a large venue year-round. After study and debate, Temple decided to focus on using the Linc for home games while investing in campus facilities that support all student-athletes, not just football.

The current plan

Today, Temple continues to play at Lincoln Financial Field under a long-term agreement, and there is no on-campus football stadium in use for home games. The strategy lets Temple offer a top-tier game day experience without assuming the cost and complexity of building a new football venue on campus. If plans change in the future, the university would share updates. For now, the Linc remains home.

Practice, Offices, and Daily Home

Edberg-Olson Hall on campus

While Temple does not play home games on campus, the football program lives there Monday through Friday. Edberg-Olson Hall is the team’s hub for offices, meeting rooms, and training. Right next to it are practice fields where the Owls prepare during the season and in spring. If you pass through Main Campus on a weekday afternoon in the fall, you might hear whistles and see the team working through drills on those practice fields.

Strength, film, and academics

The football facility includes a weight room, athletic training spaces, and meeting rooms for position groups. Players lift, watch film, and work on game plans there throughout the week. Academics are a major focus too. Support staff help student-athletes manage classes, tutoring, and study halls. This on-campus base keeps the program plugged into university life even though games are played a few miles away at the Linc.

Who Temple Plays and When

The American Athletic Conference

Temple competes in the American Athletic Conference, also known simply as “The American.” Conference opponents change from time to time due to realignment in college sports, but the AAC includes competitive programs across multiple states. Conference games often bring high stakes because they affect standings and bowl eligibility. These matchups are a big part of what makes mid-season Saturdays at the Linc feel important and intense.

Nonconference games and rivalries

Temple’s schedule usually includes a mix of nonconference opponents early in the season. Sometimes the Owls will host regional rivals or national brands that draw big crowds. One local matchup that carries history is the Mayor’s Cup versus Villanova, a city-based series that brings out alumni from both schools. Temple has also hosted power-conference teams, and those games can create electric atmospheres and strong attendance.

Memorable moments at the Linc

Temple has produced several unforgettable days at Lincoln Financial Field. One that stands out to many fans is the 2015 win over Penn State, a statement victory that sent a loud message about the program’s toughness and potential. Later that season, Temple hosted a nationally ranked showdown that packed the stadium and put the Owls in the national spotlight. These games showed how the Linc can feel like a true college cauldron when the Owls are rolling.

Planning Your Visit to a Temple Home Game

Before you go

Look up the kickoff time, check the weather, and review transportation options. If you plan to tailgate, buy your food and supplies the day before and confirm lot opening times. If you prefer public transit, add the SEPTA schedule to your phone and load your fare. If you have tickets on your phone, charge your device and consider bringing a portable charger.

At the stadium

Arrive early to take a lap around the concourse, choose a food stand, and find your seats without a rush. Enjoy warmups, listen to the band, and watch the players run out. When the game starts, join the chants, sing the fight song, and celebrate big plays. If you need a break, take a few minutes on the concourse and then head back in for the next drive. College football moves fast, but it also leaves time for a conversation with friends between plays.

After the game

As the final minutes wind down, decide whether you prefer a quick exit or hanging back a bit to let the crowds spread out. If you used rideshare, meet your driver away from the busiest corner so they can pull in and out safely. If you took the subway, follow the crowd back to NRG Station and keep your fare ready. If you drove, take your time getting to your car and follow staff directions to the nearest open exit.

Helpful Tips and Friendly Reminders

Clear bag policy and security

Lincoln Financial Field follows a clear bag policy similar to the NFL standard. Pack light and use a small clear bag or a small clutch to speed up screening. Leave large backpacks and bulky items at home. Security moves efficiently, but lines can form near kickoff, so arrive early if you want to be in your seat for the opening kick.

Dress for comfort and spirit

Wear comfortable shoes for walking and standing. Dress in layers so you can adjust as the sun shifts or the wind picks up. Add a hat for sunny days or a warm beanie for late-season games. A cherry and white scarf is both practical and spirited when fall temperatures dip.

Respect the game and fellow fans

Temple football attracts students, alumni, families, and visitors from across the region. Cheer hard and keep it positive. Celebrate great plays, sing along with the band, and make memories. A welcoming environment brings people back and helps the program grow stronger each year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Temple have an on-campus football stadium?

No, Temple does not currently have an on-campus stadium for home football games. The team plays at Lincoln Financial Field in South Philadelphia. The university has studied on-campus ideas in the past, but the current plan is to continue at the Linc.

How far is Lincoln Financial Field from Temple’s main campus?

It is only a few miles away. By subway, the Broad Street Line runs directly from stations near campus to NRG Station at the Sports Complex. By car, the drive can be 20 to 30 minutes depending on traffic.

Where do the Owls practice?

Temple practices on campus at the football facility near Edberg-Olson Hall. This is where the team lifts, studies film, meets, and runs daily practices during the season and in spring.

Can I tailgate at Temple home games?

Yes, tailgating is a big part of Temple game day at the Sports Complex. Rules vary by lot, and opening times can change based on kickoff. Always check Temple Athletics and stadium guidelines for the latest details on grills, tents, and permitted items.

What about tickets for students?

Temple students usually claim tickets through a student portal linked to their ID. Details can change by season, so students should watch school announcements and the athletics site for the latest instructions.

Is Lincoln Financial Field family-friendly for college games?

Yes. The stadium has modern amenities, helpful staff, and many seating options. Families may prefer sections farther from the loudest parts of the student section and should arrive early to settle in.

What time should I arrive?

Arriving 60 to 90 minutes before kickoff gives you time to park, pass security, and find your seats. If you want to tailgate, plan for several hours before kickoff, depending on when lots open for that game.

What if it rains?

Temple games at the Linc are played in most weather conditions. Bring a poncho instead of an umbrella, wear waterproof layers, and watch your step on wet concourses. Check the forecast and pack smart.

A Closer Look at Atmosphere and Identity

The city backdrop

Temple football’s home setting is part of the Philadelphia sports story. On a fall Saturday, you share the Sports Complex with other events and the buzz of a big city weekend. You might grab a meal before the game, hear music from nearby pregame events, and feel that rhythm that only a major city can provide. It is not a small campus setting, but it is undeniably Philadelphia.

Temple pride in a big venue

Some fans wonder if a large NFL stadium can feel like a true college home. Temple has shown that it can. The band fills the air, the student section leads the energy, and the cherry and white colors paint the scene. When opponents come to town, the Owls and their fans make the Linc feel like it was built for Temple, especially in high-stakes conference battles.

Growing the fan base

Playing at the Linc helps Temple welcome more fans: students, alumni from across the region, and families who want space, parking, and modern amenities. It is easy to bring a group, meet friends, and make a full day of it. The more people experience Temple football at the Linc, the stronger the game day tradition becomes.

Why This Setup Works

Big-stage benefits

An NFL stadium offers professional-grade video boards, sound, and seating that make even a routine game feel special. It is built with efficiency in mind, so getting in and out is smoother than at older venues. The infrastructure can handle larger crowds when a marquee opponent comes to town, which means Temple is ready when big moments arrive.

Transit and location

Few college programs can say their home stadium sits on the end of a subway line with frequent service. For students, alumni, and visiting fans, this is a major advantage. The ability to hop on the Broad Street Line and ride straight to the stadium makes game day simpler and often cheaper than driving.

Focus on athletes and academics

By using the Linc for home games, Temple can focus its campus investments on practice facilities, academic support, and student-athlete services. The daily work happens on campus, where the team lives, studies, and trains. Then, on game day, everyone heads to a top-tier venue to showcase the program.

Conclusion

So, where does Temple play football? The answer is clear and proud: at Lincoln Financial Field in South Philadelphia. The Owls take the field in an NFL-caliber stadium that offers easy transit, wide concourses, and strong sightlines, all dressed in cherry and white on Saturdays. While Temple’s daily football life lives on campus at Edberg-Olson Hall, game day belongs to the Linc, where students, alumni, and families come together to cheer. If you are planning your first visit, arrive early, ride the Broad Street Line if you can, wear layers in team colors, and be ready to sing along with the band. You will find a welcoming crowd, the energy of a big city venue, and a Temple football experience that is simple to reach and fun to love.