By Garin Turner
The Maryland Terrapins (4-4) are looking to bounce back and take a major step toward bowl eligibility when they host the Rutgers Scarlet Knights (4-5) on Saturday at 2:30 p.m. ET on FS1.
Last Game
Maryland’s offense never found rhythm in last week’s 55-10 loss to No. 2 Indiana. Quarterback Malik Washington threw for 242 yards and a touchdown but was intercepted twice. Running back DeJuan Williams led the team through the air, catching four passes for 78 yards and a score. On the ground, the Terrapins managed just 12 rushing yards total, with Iverson Howard contributing 12 yards on four carries.
What’s at Stake
Both programs are in nearly identical positions entering Week 11. Maryland sits at 4-4, while Rutgers is 4-5, each needing two wins to secure postseason eligibility. With only a handful of games left, this matchup could define which team reaches the six-win mark — and which one runs out of time.
What to Watch For
The Terrapins’ biggest challenge this season has been their ground game. Ranked 129th in the FBS in rushing offense at just 95 yards per game, Maryland will look to take advantage of a Rutgers defense that allows 184 rushing yards per game, 117th nationally.
If Maryland can establish balance and take pressure off Washington, it could open up their offense and control the pace against a Scarlet Knights team that thrives in grind-it-out contests.
Key Stats
Passing: Malik Washington — 1,958 yards, 12 TD, 5 INT
Rushing: DeJuan Williams — 88 carries, 302 yards, 2 TD
Receiving: Shaleak Knotts — 26 receptions, 421 yards, 5 TD
Team Breakdown
Maryland Offense
• Total: 344.6 yards per game (103rd FBS)
• Passing: 249.6 ypg (49th)
• Rushing: 95.0 ypg (129th)
• Scoring: 26.0 ppg (80th)
Maryland Defense
• Total: 380.9 yards allowed (85th FBS)
• Passing: 226.3 ypg (77th)
• Rushing: 154.6 ypg (82nd)
• Scoring: 22.0 ppg (46th)
Prediction
Expect a close, physical Big Ten matchup where every possession matters. If Maryland’s offense can find traction on the ground, it should be enough to hold off Rutgers late.
Final Score: Maryland 28, Rutgers 21.
