MAC commissioner says Temple, Big East talking

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February 22, 2012

PHILADELPHIA (AP) - The commissioner of the Mid-American Conference says Temple and the Big East are talking about the Owls leaving the league to rejoin their old conference.

MAC Commissioner Jon. A Steinbrecher said in a statement Wednesday that his league is ``aware that Temple has been in discussions with the Big East regarding membership.''

A person familiar with the talks says the Philadelphia-based school and the Big East are trying to negotiate a deal that could have Temple in the league for all sports by next season. The person spoke Wednesday to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the talks are still ongoing.

Temple played in the Big East in football only from 1991-2004, but was forced out of the league. It played as an independent and eventually landed in the Mid-American Conference in 2007. The Owls' other sports programs, including men's and women's basketball, are in the Atlantic 10.

The Big East has an opening now that West Virginia is being allowed to leave immediately for the Big 12.

The New York Times reported on the talks earlier Wednesday.

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AP College Football Writer Ralph Russo contributed to this report.