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Quick 2018 Recap: Maryland started the 2018 season with a respectable 3-1 record in September, including an upset victory over Texas in the season opener. However, the Terps ended the season by losing four straight against Michigan State, Indiana, Ohio State, and a 38-3 drubbing at the hands of the Nittany Lions in the season finale. Redshirt freshman running back Anthony McFarland was one of the bright spots, rushing for 1, 034 yards and four touchdowns. Quarterback duties were split between redshirt freshman Kasim Hill and redshirt sophomore Tyrrell Pigrome, with the two combining for just over 1,600 yards, 11 touchdowns, and five interceptions. Maryland also tied for the NCAA lead with 18 interceptions. Of course, much of the beginning of the season was dominated by the controversy over Jordan McNair’s passing in the summer and the administrative and coaching turmoil that followed. Matt Canada did an admirable job attempting to keep the ship afloat, but the head job went to former coach Mike Locksley in the offseason.
Offensive Player to Watch: RB Anthony McFarland, Jr: Without question, McFarland is the most explosive player on the Terrapin offense. He rushed for 298 yards against Ohio State after gaining 210 yards the previous week versus Indiana, but carried the ball just six times for 12 yards against the Nittany Lions.
Defensive Player to Watch: LB Isaiah Davis: Davis is the leading returning tackler and also has the most sacks from last year. The 6’1’’, 245 pounder recorded six tackles against Penn State.
Penn State Wins If: The Nittany Lion defense shuts down McFarland, and is able to contain either Pigrome or Virginia Tech QB transfer Josh Jackson. Offensively, Ricky Slade needs to have a big day to take the pressure off of Sean Clifford and the Blue and White’s passing attack.
Maryland Wins If: McFarland goes insane on the ground, and freshman safety Nick Cross proves his top ranking in the state by making things difficult in the secondary. Not probable, Bob. Although the game is on a Friday-maybe Penn State will forget?
Major Changes for 2019: Mike Locksley steps in as the head man, while Maryland must replace much of their defensive production, as well as running back Ty Johnson, four starters on the offensive line, quarterback Hill (currently in the transfer portal), and former offensive coordinator and interim head coach Matt Canada.