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MSB Weekly Magazine – 2026-10-18

Maryland’s Weekly Sports Magazine • October 11 – October 18, 2026

Maryland Sports Blog Weekly

Preview: Ravens Look to Maintain First Place in AFC North Against Browns

The Baltimore Ravens set their sight on an AFC North division showdown as they travel to Huntington Bank Field to take on the Cleveland Browns on Sunday. The Ravens enter Week six riding high at…

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Baltimore Ravens

Huntley Leads Ravens Past Falcons in Overtime

The Baltimore Ravens pulled off another thrilling victory on Sunday night, escaping Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta with a hard-fought 30–23 overtime win over the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday Night Football. The win moves Baltimore…

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Brian’s Take: The Week That Was

Brian's Take recaps 21 MSB opinion takes published during the week. These are the key conclusions from MSB's reporting, analysis and game coverage.

1

Washington Capitals Loan Justin Holl to Hershey Bears Despite Historic NHL Start

Washington's decision to loan Justin Holl back to Hershey is somewhat surprising considering the veteran defenseman's impressive offensive production during his brief recall. Scoring twice in three games and establishing an NHL record should strengthen his case for additional opportunities with the Capitals, especially when defensive injuries remain a concern. However, roster decisions involve more than offensive statistics, and Washington must balance its available personnel with the long-term needs of the organization. Holl demonstrated that he remains capable of contributing at the NHL level, and his performance should not go unnoticed. For Hershey, the move represents an immediate boost to a defensive group that can benefit from another experienced veteran. Holl's size, physical presence and…

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2

Capitals Score Four Straight Goals to Defeat Devils 4-2, Ryan Leonard Shines in Washington Victory

The Capitals delivered one of their more complete offensive performances of the young season, showing the ability to respond after surrendering the opening goal. Leonard's outstanding individual effort was the turning point, but Washington's three-goal second period demonstrated that the team can generate offense throughout its lineup. The combination of young talent, experienced veterans and strong goaltending gives Washington several encouraging reasons for optimism. If the Capitals can consistently maintain the intensity they displayed during the first two periods, they should remain competitive against the Metropolitan Division's stronger opponents. The biggest concern from Saturday's victory was Washington's inability to maintain offensive pressure during the third period. New Jersey outshot the Capitals 17-5 in the final…

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3

Washington Capitals Recall Jonny Brodzinski From Hershey Bears, Place Pierre-Luc Dubois on Injured Reserve

The Capitals made a sensible decision by recalling Brodzinski rather than rushing an inexperienced prospect into an NHL role during a difficult stretch. Brodzinski has demonstrated that he can produce offensively in Hershey while providing dependable minutes when called upon at the NHL level. His three preseason goals and five points through four AHL games suggest that he is playing with confidence entering this opportunity. Washington needs that type of experienced depth while Dubois remains unavailable. The bigger concern involves the growing number of injuries and illnesses affecting Washington's roster early in the season. Losing Dubois removes an important two-way presence, and the Capitals cannot expect Brodzinski to completely replace his production and responsibilities. However,…

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4

Washington Capitals Look to Build Momentum Against Red-Hot New Jersey Devils in Metropolitan Division Showdown

Saturday's matchup represents an important early test for a Capitals team still searching for consistency. Washington has enough offensive talent to compete with New Jersey, particularly with Tuch providing an immediate impact and several younger forwards continuing to develop. However, the Devils' recent offensive explosion demonstrates how dangerous they can become when their top players find open ice. The Capitals must play a disciplined, physical game and avoid turning the contest into an unrestricted offensive exchange. Washington's home-ice advantage and additional rest following Wednesday's victory could provide a meaningful edge. The Capitals have already demonstrated their ability to respond to adversity, but they must find ways to produce complete 60-minute performances rather than relying on…

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5

Alex Tuch Scores Twice as Capitals Outlast Canadiens 5-4 in Wild Back-and-Forth Battle

Wednesday's victory was not perfect, but it was exactly the kind of response Washington needed after losing two consecutive games. Tuch is already showing why he can be such an important addition to the Capitals, contributing offensively while providing the size, energy and versatility that make him dangerous in different situations. His shorthanded goal was particularly impressive, and his late insurance tally proved essential when Montreal scored during its final push. The biggest concern remains Washington's defensive consistency, particularly after allowing four goals and surrendering 30 shots. The Capitals cannot expect to win every night by trading scoring chances and relying on late offensive production, especially against stronger opponents. However, their third-period response demonstrated resilience,…

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6

Capitals Look to End Two-Game Skid Against Canadiens as Five-Game Homestand Begins

The Capitals have enough offensive talent to defeat Montreal, but their recent defensive mistakes remain concerning. Washington cannot continue surrendering leads and expecting its goaltenders to rescue games against quality opponents. Ovechkin's final season deserves a competitive playoff push, and avoiding extended losing streaks will be essential to that goal. The Capitals should have opportunities against Dobes, particularly if Tuch, Wilson and Leonard establish a strong net-front presence. MSB Prediction: Capitals 4, Canadiens 3. Washington responds to consecutive defeats with a stronger offensive performance and earns an important victory to begin its five-game homestand. Lindgren provides enough stability in goal, while Washington's forward depth makes the difference in a competitive matchup. The Capitals need this…

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7

Capitals Fall to Hurricanes 4-2 as Late Power-Play Goal Seals Washington’s Second Straight Loss

The Capitals have some concerning issues to address following their second consecutive defeat, particularly their inability to maintain offensive pressure against aggressive opponents. Washington played well enough to establish two leads, but Carolina dictated the pace for much of the final 40 minutes. Thompson gave the Capitals an opportunity to win, but relying on the goaltender to withstand that much pressure is not a sustainable formula. Washington must generate more shots, improve its defensive-zone exits and find a way to keep opponents from controlling extended stretches of play. One encouraging development was Leonard's two-assist performance, while Holl made an immediate contribution after arriving from Hershey. However, the Capitals need more production from their established offensive…

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8

Capitals Look to Rebound Against Red-Hot Hurricanes in Tuesday Night Metropolitan Division Showdown

Washington has already proven it can defeat Carolina, but Tuesday's rematch presents a considerably more difficult challenge than the season opener. The Hurricanes have responded to their early loss by winning five consecutive games, and their offensive depth makes them dangerous throughout the lineup. The Capitals must play a disciplined, structured game and avoid the careless decisions that cost them against Seattle. If Washington attempts to exchange scoring chances with Carolina throughout the evening, the Hurricanes could take advantage of the Capitals' depleted defensive lineup. The biggest concern for Washington remains the absence of Dubois, Roy and Sandin against an opponent that thrives on aggressive pressure. However, the Capitals have enough offensive talent to remain…

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9

Capitals Recall Veteran Defenseman Justin Holl as Matt Roy and Rasmus Sandin Land on Injured Reserve

The Capitals recalling Justin Holl is a sensible move considering the injuries to Matt Roy and Rasmus Sandin, but the fact that Washington already needs to rely on organizational depth is concerning. Roy and Sandin are important pieces of the defensive unit, and losing both players creates a difficult situation for Carbery early in the season. Holl is not a flashy addition, but his size, experience and familiarity with professional hockey make him a reasonable option while the team navigates its injury problems. Washington does not necessarily need Holl to produce offensively, but it absolutely needs him to play responsible defensive hockey and avoid the mistakes that contributed to Sunday's loss against Seattle. The biggest…

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10

Capitals Fall to Kraken 5-3 Despite Ovechkin’s First Goal of Season and Kyrou’s Washington Debut Goal

The Capitals had plenty of reasons to feel optimistic during Sunday's game, especially after Ovechkin finally found the back of the net and Kyrou scored his first goal in a Washington uniform. Those moments should have helped propel the Capitals toward another home victory, but careless mistakes allowed Seattle to remain competitive and eventually take control. Giving up a goal with 11 seconds remaining in the first period was particularly frustrating because Washington had just worked hard to establish a lead. The Capitals cannot continue surrendering momentum through preventable defensive mistakes against teams capable of capitalizing on those opportunities. Ovechkin's first goal is an encouraging sign as the captain continues what he has indicated will…

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11

Navy Falls to UTSA 38-34 in Fourth-Quarter Thriller Despite Record-Breaking Performance From Jackson Gutierrez

Navy's 38-34 loss to UTSA was one of the most entertaining games of the season, but the result was another frustrating reminder of the Midshipmen's inability to close out tight contests. Gutierrez delivered an outstanding performance, accounting for four touchdowns and producing a school-record 92-yard touchdown pass to Collins. Woodson's return also provided an important offensive boost, particularly during the fourth-quarter touchdown drive that briefly restored Navy's lead. However, those offensive accomplishments were overshadowed by the defense's inability to prevent UTSA from scoring the winning touchdown during the final minutes. The Midshipmen demonstrated that their offense can compete against strong conference opponents, generating 477 yards and repeatedly producing explosive plays. The combination of Gutierrez's rushing…

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12

No. 24 Morgan State Falls to Tennessee State 25-16, Four-Game Winning Streak Comes to an End

Morgan State's loss to Tennessee State was disappointing because the Bears entered the contest with considerable momentum and an opportunity to strengthen their national standing. The team had won four consecutive games and demonstrated the ability to compete against quality opponents, but Saturday's performance exposed several areas that require improvement. Two first-quarter interceptions immediately placed Morgan State in a difficult position, while its inability to convert third downs prevented the offense from establishing consistency. The Bears cannot expect to defeat quality opponents when they repeatedly give away possessions and struggle to maintain drives. Jenkins deserves considerable credit for another productive rushing performance, and Towler provided an important scoring contribution during the third quarter. However, Morgan…

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13

Towson Football Falls to No. 16 Campbell 24-20 in Heartbreaking Road Loss, Remains Winless

Towson's 24-20 loss to Campbell might be its most frustrating defeat of the season because the Tigers did enough offensively and defensively to beat a nationally ranked opponent. The Tigers outgained Campbell by more than 100 yards, controlled possession and created several opportunities to take the lead during the fourth quarter. Unfortunately, football games are decided by points rather than total yardage, and Towson continues struggling to finish drives when scoring opportunities become available. The missed field goal, costly interception and unsuccessful final possession ultimately overshadowed an otherwise encouraging performance. Davis demonstrated that he can lead Towson's offense against quality competition, while Pugh continues establishing himself as a dependable rushing threat. The defense also deserves…

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14

Maryland Blows 10-Point Halftime Lead, Falls to Rutgers 37-30 for Fifth Straight Loss

Maryland's 37-30 loss to Rutgers was particularly frustrating because the Terrapins demonstrated they were capable of controlling the game during the first half. Washington showed flashes of his potential, Durr continued producing at a high level and Maryland's special teams delivered one of the most impressive plays of the afternoon. However, none of those positives can overshadow the fact that Maryland surrendered 24 unanswered points after taking a 10-point halftime lead. A Big Ten team cannot expect to consistently win when it fails to score for an entire quarter while allowing its opponent to dominate possession. The most concerning development is that Maryland continues finding ways to lose games that appear winnable. Rutgers entered Saturday…

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15

Rockville High School girls varsity soccer to host Thomas S. Wootton High School on October 19, 2026

The scheduled home game against Thomas S. Wootton High School offers Rockville High School an early-season opportunity to measure their team development in a familiar environment. Matches like this can foster team chemistry and give both players and coaches critical insight as they progress through the 2026 season. Performing on home turf also provides a boost from local support as the girls prepare for the challenges ahead in their schedule. Source: Original report

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16

Hope Chinese School to Host Community Event at Reservoir High School on October 24, 2026

Hosting the Hope Chinese School event at Reservoir High School underscores the school's dedication to fostering cultural diversity and community connections beyond athletics. Events such as this enrich the student experience and strengthen ties within the Howard County community, complementing the dynamic spirit of the Reservoir Gators by promoting greater cultural awareness and inclusion. Source: Original report

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17

Reservoir High School to Host Football Officials Meeting on October 23, 2026

The Football Officials Meeting at Reservoir High School underscores the Howard County Public School System's and Reservoir Gators' investment in upholding fair play and consistency in high school football officiating. Events like this are critical for ensuring that officials are aligned on rules and procedures, which ultimately benefits players, coaches, and fans by fostering a safe and equitable environment on the field. Hosting the meeting at Reservoir highlights the school's role as a community hub for high school athletics in Howard County. Source: Original report

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18

St. Charles Spartans Girls Varsity Flag Football Schedule and October 19 Game Preview at Huntingtown High School

The St. Charles Spartans girls varsity flag football team faces a competitive 2026 season with a balanced mix of home and away games against regional opponents. The October 19 matchup at Huntingtown High School presents an opportunity for the Spartans to test their skills late in the season against a familiar rival. Following a series of early season games against local teams, this contest could be pivotal for momentum and team development as they progress through the schedule. Source: Original report

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19

Milford Mill Millers Boys Varsity Soccer Lose 1-3 to Western Tech on October 16

The loss to Western Tech highlights key areas for improvement for the Milford Mill Millers boys varsity soccer program. Facing a team capable of scoring multiple goals makes clear that defensive adjustments and enhanced offensive production will be essential in upcoming games. Contests such as this emphasize the competitive nature of Maryland boys high school soccer and the importance of resilience and tactical discipline as the Millers seek to improve their results this season. Source: Original report

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20

Washington Wizards Fall to New Orleans Pelicans 107-106 in Narrow Preseason Defeat

The Wizards may have lost their preseason finale, but Friday's performance offered several encouraging developments. Davis looked comfortable protecting the basket, George continued demonstrating his offensive improvement and Sarr provided another productive performance in the frontcourt. Washington's defensive communication also appeared improved, particularly during several possessions involving Young and the team's younger players. Those developments matter more than the final score in a preseason contest. However, the Wizards cannot ignore the problems that contributed to the defeat. Committing 23 turnovers and allowing 64 points in the paint will make winning regular-season games extremely difficult, particularly against stronger Eastern Conference opponents. Young must become more efficient offensively, while Washington needs to establish better ball movement and…

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21

Washington Wizards Look to Finish Preseason Strong Against New Orleans Pelicans

Friday's preseason finale represents another important evaluation opportunity for a Washington franchise hoping to become competitive again. The additions of Young, Davis and Ayton have dramatically changed the team's potential, but Washington still needs to prove that its veterans and young players can develop chemistry. George's recent performance provides encouragement, while the continued development of Sarr and Dybantsa could determine how quickly the Wizards improve. New Orleans should present a competitive challenge, especially if Williamson and Murphy receive meaningful minutes. Washington has enough size and offensive talent to compete, although preseason rotations make predicting a winner difficult. More importantly, the Wizards need to finish the exhibition schedule with improved defensive execution, a clearer rotation and…

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By the Numbers

40

Full stories

6

Sports sections

21

MSB Takes

7

Days covered

This Week in Maryland Sports

Full Issue

Baltimore Ravens

Washington Capitals and Hershey Bears

Maryland College Sports

Maryland High School Sports

Washington Wizards

Washington Mystics

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