The Maryland Terrapins (2–0) will look to extend their unbeaten start to 3–0 when they host the Towson Tigers (2–0) on Saturday at noon ET on Peacock. Maryland opened the season with a convincing 39–7 win over Florida Atlantic before grinding out a 20–9 victory over Northern Illinois in Week Two.
Week Two Recap: Maryland 20, NIU 9
Maryland’s win over Northern Illinois wasn’t flashy, but it was effective. The Terrapins put the game away late in the fourth quarter when quarterback Malik Washington connected with Shaleak Knotts on a 42-yard touchdown on fourth down. That score sealed the win and highlighted Maryland’s ability to execute in key moments.
- Washington’s Performance: The redshirt freshman QB went 19 of 35 for 254 yards and two touchdowns. For the season, Washington is 46 of 78 (59%) for 512 yards, five touchdowns, and no interceptions. He has also yet to be sacked, showing both poise and strong protection from his offensive line.
- Top Targets: Knotts had two catches for 58 yards, including the back-breaking TD. He now has seven receptions for 117 yards and two scores on the season. TE Dorian Fleming has emerged as another reliable option, with 10 catches for 106 yards and a touchdown. Kaleb Webb has chipped in with three catches for 58 yards and a score.
Offensive Concerns: Ground Game Missing
While Washington has impressed through the air, Maryland’s running game has yet to establish itself. Through two games, the Terrapins have not scored a rushing touchdown. Nolan Ray leads the team with 19 carries for 75 yards. To compete deeper into the Big Ten slate, Maryland will need more balance on offense.
Defensive Strength
Maryland’s defense carried the load against NIU, generating four sacks and consistent backfield pressure.
- Sack Leaders: Trey Riddick, Zahir Mathis, and Sidney Stewart each notched a sack, while Dillan Fontus and Nahsir Taylor added half-sacks.
- Tackling Machine: Linebacker Daniel Wingate has been the heartbeat of the defense, tallying a team-high 24 tackles through two games. Riddick is second with 15, while Mathis and Stewart have contributed five and eight tackles respectively.
The Terrapins are allowing just 9 points per game, making their defense one of the early storylines of the season.
Towson Preview
Towson also enters Saturday’s matchup 2–0, looking to spring an upset against its in-state rival. While the Tigers don’t carry the same level of talent across the board, they’ve shown offensive firepower at the FCS level and will look to test Maryland’s secondary with quick strikes.
Maryland’s defense should be the deciding factor in this matchup, but the Terrapins can’t afford to overlook Towson ahead of tougher conference play.
Keys to the Game
- Establish the Run: Maryland must find answers in the rushing attack to complement Washington’s passing game.
- Limit Big Plays: Towson thrives on momentum swings. The Terps can’t allow explosive plays to keep the Tigers hanging around.
- Washington’s Consistency: Another efficient, turnover-free performance will keep Maryland on track.
- Defensive Intensity: Continuing to generate sacks and pressure will force Towson out of rhythm early.
Prediction
Maryland has the talent edge on both sides of the ball. Towson may bring fight early, but expect the Terps’ defense and Washington’s steady arm to take control as the game wears on.
Projected Final: Maryland 34, Towson 13.
