Maryland Football: Five things to watch for Maryland/Ohio State

Gap in the quarterback battle

When it comes to the quarterback position, this game features two signal callers at complete opposite ends of the spectrum.

Ohio State’s J.T. Barrett is a grizzled veteran that has been the face of the program over the past four years. Even since Barrett took over for Braxton Miller as a true freshman, there’s been no looking back.

In each year that he’s been the full-time starter, Barrett has thrown for at least 2,500 yards and 24 touchdowns. He’s also been a threat on the ground as he’s rushed for at least 845 yards and nine touchdowns in his Buckeye career.

Barrett is the definition of a dual-threat quarterback, but he’s as savvy as they come. If there’s a play to made, he normally makes the right call in terms of throwing the football or taking off with it.

On the other hand, Max Bortenschlager will get his third career start for Maryland on Saturday.

Bortenschlager turned in an admirable performance last Saturday against Minnesota on the road. The Indiana native completed 18-of-28 passes for 154 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for another score.

It was clear that offensive coordinator Walt Bell constructed a phenomenal gameplan that was tailored to Bortenschlager’s skillset. The Terps came out of the gate running the football at a very high clip.

Bortenschlager made some very tough throws to his credit, including a 27-touchdown pass to D.J. Moore.

In order for Maryland to make a statement, the Terps are going to come out mixing in the run with the pass like last week. If Bortenschlager can play with similar confidence this week, Maryland could give Ohio State a run for their money.