Maryland Football Preview: Terrapins Host Wisconsin With Bowl Hopes on the Line
By Brian Hradsky
Maryland Sports Blog | November 13, 2026
Wisconsin Badgers (6-3) at Maryland Terrapins (3-6)
Kickoff: Noon ET | Location: SECU Stadium, College Park | TV: FS1
Maryland returns to SECU Stadium on Saturday afternoon looking to build momentum after securing its first Big Ten victory of the season. The Terrapins (3-6, 1-5 Big Ten) welcome Wisconsin (6-3, 4-2), a team that has already secured bowl eligibility and remains competitive in the conference standings. For Maryland, the stakes are significant because another defeat would eliminate its opportunity to reach the traditional six-win threshold for bowl eligibility.
Maryland Looks to Build on Purdue Victory
The Terrapins enter Saturday’s matchup with renewed confidence following a 34-29 road victory over Purdue. Quarterback Malik Washington delivered one of his strongest performances of the season, completing 13 of 18 passes for 253 yards and two touchdowns. Washington also rushed for two touchdowns, demonstrating the dual-threat ability that makes him Maryland’s most important offensive weapon.
Running back DeJuan Williams contributed 99 rushing yards and a touchdown against the Boilermakers. Wide receiver Chris Durr Jr. added 127 receiving yards and a touchdown on four receptions, giving Maryland a dangerous combination of passing and rushing production. The Terrapins will need another balanced offensive performance against a Wisconsin defense that has been among the nation’s strongest.
Wisconsin Brings One of the Big Ten’s Best Defenses
Wisconsin enters the contest following a convincing 31-10 victory over Rutgers. True freshman quarterback Ryan Hopkins made his first career start in that game, completing 18 of 24 passes for 241 yards and three touchdowns. His performance earned him Big Ten Freshman of the Week honors and provided the Badgers with an encouraging development at quarterback.
The Badgers have allowed just 16.3 points and 286.4 total yards per game this season. Their rushing defense has been particularly effective, surrendering approximately 101 yards per contest. Maryland must establish an effective ground game without relying exclusively on Williams to create explosive plays.
Statistical Comparison
| Category | Maryland | Wisconsin |
|---|---|---|
| Overall record | 3-6 | 6-3 |
| Big Ten record | 1-5 | 4-2 |
| Points per game | 27.7 | 24.4 |
| Total offense | 369.1 | 323.2 |
| Passing yards/game | 239.6 | 186.7 |
| Rushing yards/game | 129.6 | 136.6 |
| Points allowed/game | 31.3 | 16.3 |
| Total defense yards/game | 377.6 | 286.4 |
Three Keys to a Maryland Victory
1. Protect Malik Washington. Wisconsin’s defense has consistently limited opposing offenses, meaning Maryland cannot afford unnecessary sacks or turnovers. Washington’s mobility could help the Terrapins extend plays and create opportunities downfield.
2. Win on third down. Maryland has allowed opponents to convert approximately 41.3% of third-down opportunities. Wisconsin’s offense converts at a similar rate, making third-down defense particularly important for the Terrapins. Sustaining drives offensively while getting Wisconsin off the field could significantly change the matchup.
3. Finish drives with touchdowns. Wisconsin has converted scoring opportunities inside the red zone at a high rate this season. Maryland’s defense has struggled in that area, allowing opponents to score on 93.3% of red-zone trips. The Terrapins cannot afford to settle for field goals while allowing Wisconsin to finish possessions with touchdowns.
A Chance to Celebrate Maryland Football History
Saturday will also feature a celebration of Maryland’s 2001 ACC championship team. That historic squad, coached by Ralph Friedgen, finished 10-2 and earned a trip to the Orange Bowl. The university will recognize the team’s 25th anniversary as part of a game that also features Military Appreciation Day.
Brian’s Take: Maryland Has a Chance, but Defense Must Improve
Maryland has enough offensive talent to challenge Wisconsin, particularly if Washington continues producing explosive plays with his arm and legs. However, the defensive differences between these programs are substantial, and Wisconsin enters as the more complete team. The Badgers have demonstrated the ability to control games defensively while Maryland has struggled to consistently prevent opponents from scoring.
The Terrapins have home-field advantage, momentum from their Purdue victory and plenty of motivation to keep their postseason hopes alive. Washington gives Maryland a legitimate opportunity to produce an upset, but the Terrapins must avoid turnovers and prevent Wisconsin from controlling the line of scrimmage. A competitive game is possible, although Maryland will need one of its best defensive performances of the season.
MSB Prediction: Wisconsin 27, Maryland 24.
The Badgers deserve to be favored based on their defensive production, but Maryland’s offensive improvement makes this a potentially competitive matchup.
Sources:
