The Maryland Terrapins(6-5,3-5 B1G), fresh off a thrilling victory over Nebraska(11/11), are gearing up for another crucial matchup against the Rutgers Scarlet Knights(6-5,3-5 B1G) on Saturday, November 25, 2023. For the first time since 2006-8, Maryland is eligible for a bowl, for the third season in a row.
The game is set to kickoff at 3:40 pm GMT, will broadcast on Big Ten Network, anchored by Analysts: Matt Millen, Play-by-Play: Connor Onion, and the Maryland Sports Radio Network on 105.7 FM (balt), anchored by Analyst: Steve Suter, Play-by-Play: Johnny Holiday. The game, scheduled to take place at the SHI Stadium, holds significant implications for both teams as they strive to secure their place in the Big Ten standings.
Maryland, under the leadership of head coach Mike Locksley, has demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the season. Locksley, a native of Washington D.C, became the head coach on December, 2018. With a coaching experience of 30 years, this year will be his 15th season with the Terps and 5th season as head coach.
Despite facing a challenging schedule, the Terrapins have emerged victorious in six of their ten games, showcasing their potential to compete at the highest level of college football.
The terps has beaten Rutgers on a combined score of 77-16 over the last two years according to ESPN Sport. Two seasons ago they went home with a 40-16 victory in Piscataway, and last season in College Pack, was an outsanding 37-0 win against the Rutgers.
Since joining the Big Ten in 2014, the Terps have scored more than 23 points in each of their nine games against the Scarlet Knights, averaging 35.8 points per game. Maryland is 6-3 against the Rutgers, and has an average of 250.2 yards per game against the Scarlet Knights.
Quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa, the heart and soul of Maryland’s offense, has been instrumental in the team’s success. His impressive passing skills, combined with his ability to extend plays with his legs, have made him a formidable force on the field.
The red shirt senior from Ewa Beach, has a career record of 10,895 passing yards, 73 passing touchdown, and 85 total touchdown, 931 completions with total offense of 11,115. He is one of the only two quarters back with at least 2,500 passing yards in each of the last three season, along with Memphis Seth Henigan, with only 268 yards away from becoming the all-time Big Ten Passing leader, he currently is no.4, 22 yards behind Adam weber from Minnesota, and 14 yards behind Purdue’s Drew Brees.
On the second of October, 2023, he was recognized as the Big Ten offensive player of the week, set career high with five passing touchdowns and six total touchdowns in a win over Indiana, became the first QB to surpass 10,000 yards passing in Maryland history, with a passing efficiency of 144.9.
The Terrapins’ defense, led by linebacker Ruben Hyppolite Sr., from Davie FL, has also played a pivotal role in their victories. His aggressive play style and ability to create turnovers have disrupted opposing offenses and kept Maryland in contention in close games. Set the season high with 10 tackles (five solo) against Michigan, notched three solo tackle and a six-yard sack at Northwestern, led the Terps with seven tackles (five solo) againt Illinois.
Rutgers, on the other hand, has had a more inconsistent season, with a record of 4-6. However, they have shown flashes of brilliance, particularly in their upset victory over Nebraska.
Quarterback Gavin Wimsatt, a transfer from West Virginia, has brought stability and leadership to the Scarlet Knights’ offense. His ability to make quick decisions and distribute the ball effectively has been crucial for their success.
Rutgers’ defense, anchored by linebacker Tyreek Maddox, has been a force to be reckoned with. Their physicality and ability to create pressure have made them a difficult opponent for many teams.
The upcoming matchup between Maryland and Rutgers promises to be a captivating and competitive affair. Both teams have demonstrated their ability to play at a high level, and the outcome will likely hinge on which team can execute their game plan more effectively.
For Maryland, a victory would solidify their position in the Big Ten standings and potentially put them in contention for a bowl game. For Rutgers, a win would not only boost their morale but also keep their hopes of a postseason appearance alive.
With so much at stake, both teams are expected to bring their A-game to the field. The Terrapins’ offensive firepower will clash with Rutgers’ defensive prowess, creating a thrilling spectacle for fans of both teams.
As the excitement mounts for this pivotal matchup, the question remains: who will emerge victorious in this clash of titans? The answer will be revealed on Saturday, November 25, as Maryland and Rutgers face off in a battle that could shape their respective seasons.
