Rutgers football is set to kick off against Maryland at 2:30 pm on Saturday at home. With the Scarlet Knights’ small hopes of making a bowl game hanging in the balance, this game is as must-win as it can
get.
The Terrapins (4-4) aren’t going to back down from the challenge, as they too are pushing hard to make a bowl game in this final stretch of the season. They have Rutgers, Illinois, No.21 Michigan, and Michigan State left to play.
Maryland’s roster poses several issues for Rutgers, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Maryland’s quarterback, Malik Washington, and their wide receiver core, consisting of Shaleak Knotts, Octavian Smith Jr., and Jalil Farooq, combine for a very potent passing attack. When running back DeJuan Williams and tight end Dorian Fleming are factored in, the Terrapins have five pass catchers who have over 250 receiving yards on 24 or more catches. Washington has totaled 1,958 passing yards and 12 passing touchdowns to just 5 interceptions so far this season.
Washington does appear to have a favorite target in the end zone, as Knotts has five touchdown catches, three more than anyone else on the team.
Maryland’s rushing attack leaves a lot to be desired, as it is one of the worst in the Big Ten. Williams has 88 carries for 302 yards and two touchdowns on the season, while backup running back Nolan Ray has 54 carries for 201 yards and two touchdowns. Washington, while not being a run-first quarterback, doesn’t have cinder blocks on his feet, as he can move around the pocket and take off when needed. He has 99 yards rushing on 27 attempts, with three touchdowns to go along with it. He will likely be the main rushing threat that Rutgers will have to look out for because of their issues stopping the quarterback run.
On the flip side, Maryland’s defense has a stout secondary. They currently have 15 interceptions on the year, with four of them being returned for touchdowns, which is tied for the most by any college football team this season. Their pass rush is also a threat, as they have combined for 23 sacks this season. Rutgers quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis will have to play a smart game to avoid any disastrous shifts in momentum.
If there is one area where the Terrapin defense is somewhat lacking, it’s in stopping the run. The Maryland rush defense is surrendering an average of 169.4 yards per game. The Knights’ best chance to win this game will come by grinding it out on the ground. Whether or not they can do that with a depleted offensive line remains to be seen.
