Looking at Maryland-Nevada
For some reason, I'm not loving Maryland's chances against Nevada.
Could it be because:
*The Terps haven't played well on the road. They won just one away game this season, coming back against Clemson after a dismal first half at Death Valley. Maryland was far better at Byrd -- a different team, really. Except for the Florida State game.
*Maryland had such great expectations until so late in the season. Fridge says they practiced well last week -- with intensity. But it's not easy picking yourself up off the mat and traveling to a bowl game that was far from your first postseason choice. The Terps can't help but be disappointed. And that's not an emotion that is conducive to playing good football.
*Nevada has the easier "commute," being located much closer to Boise. The Terps will need to adjust to Mountain Time Zone.
*Nevada's offense poses challenges for the Terps. The Wolf Pack have two 1,000-yard rushers -- including quarterback Colin Kaepernick. Think it's easy to defense a mobile quarterback? Remember how nervous N.C. State quarterback Russell Wilson made the Maryland defense? Nevada also has a 1,000-yard receiver. This is a first-rate offense.
*Making matters worse for the Terps: Nevada has a top field-goal kicker, Brett Jaekle, who scored 100 points on was 14 of 17 on field goals. He can really help his team in a close game.
*Nevada hung in against some talented teams (Texas Tech, Boise State). The Wolf Pack won four games away from home.
I'm not saying Maryland can't win-- I think they can score on Nevada's defense. But the Terps will need to play better than they have on the road all season if they want to give their 30 seniors a happy going-away party.
Comments
i hope md wins but don't expect them to. in regards to the 30 seniors..they collectively haven't had great success on the field so the idea of having "senior" experience being an advantage is out the window. of course next yr fridge will be saying the team lacks experience to ready fans for another disappointing season.
Posted by: fkterp | December 15, 2008 7:42 AM
The only reason we have a chance is cuz Cosh isn't here.
Posted by: Shawn | December 15, 2008 9:56 AM
Jeff, I completely agree with your analysis. Add in the fact that Terps sucked at night this season and have lost 2 coaches and I would not be surprised at all with an L. That being said, MD certainly has the talent to put it all together and put a whipping on NV.
Posted by: CA Terp Fan | December 15, 2008 10:49 AM
Nevada can run the ball and score points. Hope we see a different, i.e., more aggressive defense now that coach cosh is gone. Just seemed to me we played too far off the receivers, never blitzed as much as we should, and never pursued the ball carrier and gang tackled. Also, hit the QB every opportunity you have (legally of course).
On offense, this is the last chance for that huge, experienced offensive line to perform. they were such underachievers during the season. Need to get that running game going and then let Turner throw to our talented receivers.
High scoring game...Terps to win 31-24.
Posted by: UMDFAN | December 15, 2008 12:21 PM
I was worried about how Nevada has the second best rushing offense, but a few days ago I read that they have the dead last passing defense.
I know it's hard to get excited about, but it may be a very entertaining, high-scoring game.
Posted by: martin | December 15, 2008 1:03 PM
uh oh," terps practice well" may mean that the best practice qb will be rewarded-steffy! Fridge is loyal,stubborn,and has a long term contract.
Posted by: doc | December 15, 2008 11:36 PM
Cold weather will challenge the ambitions of the Terps,I predict.I would rather plow it out with a fine running game than see recievers bounce passes off their cold hands.Terps D could revitalize itself without Cosh and keep the game respectable.Who wants to end college without that last W?Note that I said the team will feel challenged by cold weather;not done in.
Posted by: Dan R. | December 16, 2008 7:04 PM
As a UM Grad (and big fan) living in Reno, let me tell you, if Maryland does not slow down Nevada's running game, it will be a very long day for the Terps. BUT, Missouri put up over 60 against Nevada so Turner should be able to throw the ball. Overall, I will take a good running team over a good passing team. Turner will make mistakes.
NV 34 Terps 24. Oh, and its freezing out here!
Posted by: NV/Terp fan | December 17, 2008 12:05 AM