First Down: Must wins for 2010 Terps

LOCAL POWER RANKINGS WHO’S GENERATING BUZZ IN THE D.C. AREA?

ALEX OVECHKIN

The Moscow Dynamo was banned two games for his latest ejection. Maybe this time he’ll finally learn a lesson: He can’t fight everybody’s battles.

RALPH FRIEDGEN

Despite a 2-10 record, he will return as Maryland’s coach. Translation: There wasn’t enough money in the coffers to pay his buyout.

EARL BOYKINS

Even those who think the NBA is like watching paint dry must enjoy seeing the 5-foot-5 guard play for the Wizards. Entering Wednesday, he was averaging 20.8 minutes and 9.6 points.

GREGG WILLIAMS

Sacked by Dan Snyder during the Great Coach Search in January 2008, he returns with the 11-0 Saints on Sunday. He’ll absolutely want to destroy the Redskins.

CLINTON PORTIS

Out for a third game with a concussion, the Redskins running back wants to return this year, but the right decision is to put him on injured reserve.

TWT FIVE MUST WINS FOR 2010 MARYLAND FOOTBALL

1. Sept. 4 vs. Navy (in Baltimore) — This year’s 2-10 season started with a debacle at California. The Terps need to get off faster in 2010, and this would be a big step.

2. Sept. 11 vs. Eastern Michigan — The Eagles were 0-12 this season and allowed 36 points a game. No excuses.

3. TBA vs. Wake Forest — The Demon Deacons fell back to earth this year, but they still scorched Maryland for 42 points.

4. TBA at Virginia — The Al Groh error is finally over in Charlottesville, and the Cavaliers will be in rebuilding mode under a new staff.

5. TBA vs. Duke — The Terps were 2-5 at home this year; getting back to being bowl eligibility includes winning games like this.

THURSDAY’S BEST BET ON TELEVISION

Minus Alex Ovechkin, the Capitals play host to Florida. 7 p.m., CSN