By Garin Turner
The Maryland Terrapins kept their perfect start alive with a commanding 44-17 victory over Towson on Saturday. From the opening kick, the Terps set the tone, storming to a 17-0 first-quarter lead and never looking back.
A Fast Start
Maryland wasted no time putting the game out of reach. After a field goal to get on the board, DeJuan Williams powered into the end zone from two yards out to make it 10-0. Quarterback Malik Williams added a rushing score of his own later in the quarter, stretching the advantage to 17-0.
The second quarter only widened the gap. Williams connected with Shaleak Knotts on a 32-yard touchdown strike, and following a Towson fumble, Nolan Ray capped another quick drive with a five-yard rushing score. By halftime, the Terrapins had built a commanding 34-0 lead.
Defensive Dominance
The defense matched the offense’s energy, stifling Towson on third down (1-for-13) and forcing two turnovers. The highlight came in the third quarter, when defensive back Andrew Indorf jumped a pass and raced 100 yards the other way for a touchdown, the longest pick-six in program history.
Towson finally found the end zone midway through the third quarter, but by then, the outcome had long been decided.
By the Numbers
- Passing: Malik Williams went 16-of-22 for 261 yards with one touchdown and one interception.
- Rushing: Iverson Howard carried 15 times for 60 yards. DeJuan Williams added 47 yards and a touchdown on 12 carries, while Williams chipped in 29 yards and another score on the ground. Nolan Ray also punched in a five-yard touchdown run.
- Receiving: Octavian Smith Jr. led the way with four catches for 103 yards. Knotts hauled in four for 79 yards and a touchdown.
- Defense: Indorf etched his name into the record book with the 100-yard interception return. Carlton Smith added six tackles and half a sack.
Maryland outgained Towson 428-281 in total yardage, dictated time of possession, and dominated the trenches on both sides.
What’s Next
The Terrapins (3-0) now turn their attention to Big Ten play, opening conference action next week against Wisconsin (2-1). It’s a pivotal matchup for a Maryland team with confidence and momentum. With three ranked opponents still ahead — Indiana, Illinois, and Michigan — stacking early wins will be critical if the Terps want to remain a factor in the Big Ten race.
Final Score: Maryland 44, Towson 17.
