Maryland Beats Texas, Exercises Demons in Season Opener
Maryland defeated Texas 34-29 yesterday. The dark cloud over the game turned from figurative to literal, as play was suspended due to lightning in the area midway through the second half. When it was all said and done, a matchup that started at noon finished up around 5:30 but the victory was so necessary for the program that no one on the team seemed to mind.
On the first play of the game the Terps lined up with 10 men, leaving Jordan McNair’s spot open while electing to take the delay of game. It was a move among many others dedicated to McNair’s memory, as Maryland also had helmet patches, a flag, and officially dedicated every snap to their fallen teammate. In a move of fantastic sportsmanship, Texas declined the penalty yardage.
The actual gameplay started superbly for Maryland, as they scored quickly on their first drive to set the tone for the rest of the game. Texas responded with a touchdown, but the Terps dominated for the next quarter or so to take a 24-7 lead in the second quarter. The star of the fast start was freshman Jesean Jones, whose first three touches led to Maryland touchdowns. Jones led the Terps despite playing in his first career college game.
Despite the 17 point lead, Texas scored 22 unanswered to go up 29-24 late in the third quarter, but Kasim Hill, who was phenomenal on the day led Maryland right down the field to retake the lead 31-29 before the weather delay. A couple hours and 15 minutes of very wet, plodding, unproductive football, the Terps defeated the Longhorns.
Maryland quarterbacks on the day showed they can compete against elite FBS defenses, putting up a combined stat line of 20/33, 244yds, a Td, and most importantly 0 ints. The defense was unquestionably led by Darnell Savage. The senior was all over the field making tackles and calling huddles.
The Terps return to action next Saturday at Bowling Green.
