Oct 19, 2013; Winston-Salem, NC, USA; Maryland Terrapins wide receiver Deon Long (6) has a pass knocked away by the Wake Forest Demon Deacons defense during the second quarter at BB&T Field. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
The Maryland Terrapins may be the underdog newcomers to the Big Ten this season, but according to the legendary college football guru Phil Steele, the Terrapins aren’t without hope.
Steele released his All-Big Ten team yesterday, and with that came a slight distinction for a few Terps players. Maryland’s dynamic wide receiver pair of Stefon Diggs and Deon Long made Steele’s First Team offense and comprised two of the three wideouts chosen for the small accolade. Only Ohio State and Wisconsin had two or more players chosen for the First Team. It doesn’t look like anyone is expecting Diggs or Long to miss much of a beat from last year despite being injured during last season’s Wake Forest game.
No doubt about it, that receiving pair is exceptionally talented. Stefon Diggs is arguably one of the most electric receivers in the country and as surefire of an NFL draft pick as they come. He’s probably going to break most Maryland receiving and yardage records should he stay all four years, and is the most talented player in an incredibly deep receiving unit. Long, meanwhile, has proven to be equally as explosive despite having only been in College Park one season. Long proved to be a lethal #1 receiver masquerading as a #2 last year with steady hands.
Outside of those two, no other Terp made Steele’s offensive teams. On defense, however, Andre Monroe, Cole Farrand, and Sean Davis made third team. Matt Robinson and William Likely both joined in on the fun with a 4th team selection. On special teams, Brad Craddock made second team kicker after Michigan State’s Michael Geiger took the first team spot. William Likely snagged another third team selection as a punt returner on special teams.
Overall, it’s encouraging that Maryland at least has enough talent to compete in the Big Ten at key positions. Two of the top receivers, linebackers, and some very solid special teamers is an encouraging sign for the Terps. Congrats to the players!