Maryland football will face Northwestern at 8 p.m. on Oct.11 after returning from the bye week.
The Terps (3-2, 0-2) are looking for their first Big Ten win after falling to Michigan State and Indiana. Northwestern will also be looking for its first conference win.
Maryland needs to get back on track to reach a bowl game for the fourth consecutive season, but first, here are three things to look for against Northwestern:
Can Maryland run the ball effectively?
Northwestern currently ranks seventh in the league at stopping the run, allowing just 93.2 yards per game and three rushing touchdowns.
On the other hand, the Terps average 146.6 rushing yards per game and have run for nine touchdowns. Maryland has run for a touchdown in each game this season, including two from junior quarterback Billy Edwards Jr.
“Up front, they have a lot of experience in the front seven, a lot of guys that play the run well,” Edwards said. “They’re stout. They play long-armed and physical in the run game.”
Who will be healthy enough to play?
Maryland could be without senior receivers Tai Felton or Kaden Prather and senior safety Dante Trader Jr.
The three were dinged up heading into the bye but according to Locksley at least two of the three will play.
“Two of the three have practiced,” Locksley said. “We’ll see how the one who hasn’t practiced manages. It’s hard to say he’s out yet. … Two of the three will be ready to go.”
Can Maryland limit the penalties?
Penalties have been an ongoing issue for the Terps this season, whether it’s pass interference, holding or false starts.
Maryland is fourth in the Big Ten in penalties (40), first in penalties per game (8) and second in penalties yards per game (74.6).
One of those penalties also thwarted the Terps’ attempt to win their conference opener against Michigan State. A defensive pass interference on third down helped lead to the Spartans’ game-winning field goal.
“Penalties, I hate them. I die with every one,” Locksley said.
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