The book closed on the first chapter of The Anderson Story at Temple two weeks ago when Robbie accepted a scholarship to Florida Tech, hopefully not to major in nuclear physics. That’s when all Temple fans finally gave in to any ill-advised hope that Robbie, an academic casualty, would return.

Patrick Anderson scores on a halfback touchdown pass (remember those?) against Beaver Falls.

A new chapter started this week when Patrick Anderson (no relation) signed at Temple. Let’s hope this book is a lot thicker than the first one.

Robbie was like a Halley’s Comet, giving Owls’ fans a brief glimpse of what a big-time receiver can be. In five games, Anderson caught nine touchdown passes from P.J. Walker, who obviously formed a cosmic connection with Robbie. Against Memphis, Anderson caught three touchdown passes from Walker—three more touchdown passes than Owl receivers were able to get the next season against the same team in a 16-13 loss.

That was the most disappointing thing with the departure of the first Anderson. The Owls knew he was leaving and recruited five receivers in last year’s class and none of them were good enough to make it onto the field for any length of time.

The reviews are yet to be written for Patrick Anderson, but the first draft of his work looks good. Consider the production for the final high school years of each player. My only concern is does Patrick have the 40-speed of Robbie? At 225 pounds, that would be tough to match but, if he does, watch out:

The Two Anderson’s in Their Best High School Years: