NFL
By Nathan Snell:
Friday night at SECU Stadium from a Fan Perspective was a great experience. Seeing them for the first time in person, never having been to a game there, was a different perspective.
Maryland was coming off a high-momentum win against FAU this past Saturday afternoon. Exponential growth is something. However, in football, week to week, that can differ.
In this case, winning 20-9 against Northern Illinois on Friday, there were many positives, but there were also many inconsistencies.
Nate’s Breakdown
Red Zone Opportunities
While the Terrapins scored 20 points, it was a largely underwhelming effort. Maryland reached the red zone six times but only managed to score one touchdown. They also converted two field goals, and there were three turnovers, including a fumble by Washington, a dropped ball by Donald Fleming, and a missed field goal. This was evident last weekend. The Terrapins must continue to improve on having an efficient offense.
NIU won the ground game
The Huskies, after their victory over Holy Cross, relied on their core strength. Smash-mouth football is their style, and the time of possession reflected that. Late in the third quarter, with the score at 13-3, Telly Johnson Jr. broke free for a 74-yard run that shifted the momentum. For a run-first team, Maryland struggled to adapt to the new style. NIU finished with 180 rushing yards, while Maryland had 87 rushing yards. This was an MAC opponent. Big Ten play is approaching soon; adjustments need to be made quickly.
Malik Washington Will Be Fine
Washington threw forty passes in the win against FAU. Should your quarterback throw that many passes in a game? As the offense develops, what could that look like? On Friday, 35 passes were attempted, but within five yards of the line of scrimmage. However, every game is different, and he occasionally showed some flaws. There were missed throws, and he fumbled the ball while running to his left toward the end zone. Give the Huskies credit; NIU made it tough. But the young freshman still showed poise.
Buy Maryland’s Secondary Stock
Last season, the Terrapins had one of the worst pass defenses in the Big Ten. Jamare Glasker, Dontay Joyner, and Kevyn Humes have been doing wonders. NIU completed only 64% of their passes for 91 yards. Although the defense had a good day against the pass, NIU performed even better in the trenches.
