Maryland Football Depth Chart Observations
By Chris Bengel
Dec 27, 2013; Annapolis, MD, USA; Maryland Terrapins quarterback C.J. Brown (16) runs with the ball past Marshall Thundering Herd defensive lineman James Rouse (11) in the third quarter during the 2013 Military Bowl at Navy Marine Corps Memorial Stadium. The Thundering Herd won 31-20. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
- One of the first things that you may notice is the same makeshift offensive line that ended last season remains. However, it only remains for the time being. Transfer Larry Mazyck and freshman Derwin Gray aren’t expected to report until June. I’d assume fellow freshman Damian Prince will report around that time as well. The unit could go from a solid unit to a position of strength for Maryland. The current group is comprised of Ryan Doyle (tackle), Michael Dunn (tackle), Silvano Altamirano (guard), Andrew Zeller (guard), and Sal Conaboy (center).
- Brandon Ross and Albert Reid are listed as co-starters at the running back position with Wes Brown serving as the backup along with Jacquille Veii and Joe Riddle. This isn’t a huge surprise given that the duo were in this situation all summer leading up to the 2013 season. Ross showed flashes of just how good he can be in 2013, so my guess is that he’ll be the starter when the Terps open the season.
- Injuries dominate the wide receiver position. Stefon Diggs and Deon Long are still recovering from their broken legs that they suffered against Wake Forest. Coach Randy Edsall told the media on Friday that both are progressing as scheduled and Diggs could return towards the end of spring practice. Amba Etta-Tawo and Levern Jacobs are currently listed as the starters at wideout.
- The defense is pretty much what you would expect at most positions. Sophomore Yannick Ngakoue will assume Marcus Whitfield’s outside linebacker spot. Andre Monroe will start at defensive end after registering 9.5 sacks for Maryland this past season.
- A few freshmen could be starting by the time the season opens. Prince will almost definitely start at left tackle, especially after spending the summer with new offensive line coach Greg Studrawa. While it’s not a glamorous position, Arizona native Nate Adams could be the starting long snapper.