Maryland Football: What to watch for against Indiana
By Wesley Brown
Maryland faces Indiana for homecoming this weekend, so it is time to point out five keys to a Terrapins win.
Get pressure on the quarterback, but also contain him.
Peyton Ramsey is a dual threat quarterback with an emphasis on threat. He completes over 62 percent of his passes, including seven touchdowns, but has also ran for over 200 yards and two more scores. The 6’2 freshman could have his way with the Maryland defense if they don’t focus on containing him to the pocket, as DJ Durkin mentioned in his press conference earlier in the week.
Run Maryland, Run!
Last week Maryland found themselves able to move the ball on the ground for the first time in awhile. The offensive line got some push and Ty Johnson was able to blow past defenders for some decent gains. Indiana’s defense ranks 60th in the nation, allowing upwards of 160 yards rushing pergame. Ty Johnson and Lorenzo Harrison need to blow this game open from the first snap.
Convert…
Maryland’s biggest issue in Big Ten play has ben converting on third downs. The Hoosiers come in ranked 18th in the country for third down defense, allowing just 30 percent of opponents to convert. The Terrapins rank 117th for third down offense, converting just under 30% of their attempts, including just 25% in their last three games. Either not getting to third down or simply converting at a higher rate will streamline the scoring process.
Trust the kicking game
Maryland does sport a 62% conversion on field goals this season, but giving the kickers a chance could bode better in the long run. Henry Darmstadter has missed just one field goal and has hit from 51 yards. there is no reason why Durkin should be going for it on fourth down inside the 35 yard line. The Terrapins need to at least attempt to get three rather than getting nothing.