Maryland Terrapins

Maryland returns 71% of its 2025 production, second nationally, but that production came from a team that lost eight straight. The pressure is on eighth-year head coach Mike Locksley to turn that experience into wins. The Terps have a veteran offensive line anchored by Big Ten All-Academic center Michael Hershey and tackles Rahtrel Perry and Isaiah Wright, a unit that allowed the fifth-fewest sacks per game nationally. But the rushing attack was next-to-last in the Big Ten at 104.3 yards per game, and the wide receiver group ranked among the national leaders in drops. The offense must prove it can be more than just a passing show.

Quarterback Malik Washington set freshman school records for completions and yards in 2025, and new offensive coordinator Clint Trickett wants him to run more and push a faster pace. Washington is a 6-foot-5, 231-pound athlete who impressed opposing scouts with his toughness and poise. But he needs help: top returning receiver Kaleb Webb had just 22 catches, while running back DeJuan Williams (45 receptions) and tight end Dorian Fleming (40) were actually the most targeted pass-catchers. Transfers Na'eem Abdul-Rahim Gladding (Old Dominion) and Chris Durr Jr. (Wyoming) were brought in to address the drop issues and add depth.

Defensive coordinator Ted Monachino returns eight starters, and the defensive line is the most intriguing group. Freshman All-America ends Sidney Stewart and Zahir Mathis are joined by Zion Elee, arguably the most highly touted recruit in program history. Inside, 300-pounders Lavon Johnson and Eyan Thomas give Maryland the size to compete in the Big Ten. If this group generates consistent pressure, it could mask some of the questions in the back seven and help the Terps flip field position.

Kicker Sean O'Haire was first-team All-Big Ten, leading the conference with 1.75 made field goals per game and posting the second-most accurate season (87.5%) in Maryland history. Punter Bryce McFerson averaged 44.2 yards per punt, earning second-team All-Big Ten honors. In a season where margins could be thin, having a reliable kicking game and a punter who can flip the field is a significant advantage for the Terrapins.

Maryland opens at home against Howard, a game that should provide a chance to build confidence and establish an identity. But the Big Ten slate is unforgiving, and Locksley's seat is warm after seven seasons with a 37-49 record. The Terps have recruited well, but the narrative of last year's eight-game losing streak lingers. The rest of the season will be about whether this experienced, talented roster can finally turn promise into consistent results, or if the same old issues will resurface.