Some tidbits from Maryland coach Randy Edsall‘s weekly press conference, starting with the kicking situation …
Probably the most notable absence on Maryland’s depth chart —- at least in terms of a mild surprise —- was kicker Nick Ferrara.
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The senior was limited late in camp after he developed soreness. Earlier this year, Ferrara underwent hip surgery that kept him out of spring practice.
“Nick is really kind of a day-to-day situation,” Edsall said. “He’ll probably do some kicking today. They told me they’ll probably let him kick 10 field goals today. We’ll just see where he’s at.”
Freshman Brad Craddock will kick if Ferrara is unable to play Saturday.
Meanwhile, Craddock and Nathan Renfro remained deadlocked in the punting competition, and Edsall anticipates a game-time decision at that spot.
THE ONUS ON HILLS?
Edsall emphasized at several junctures Maryland needs freshman quarterback Perry Hills to realize he has help.
In short, the onus on the first true freshman to start a season opener at quarterback in school history will be to play smart and within the offense.
“What Perry has to do is go out and make first downs and have the team move the ball,” Edsall said. “We have to make sure he understands every play doesn’t have to be a big play, doesn’t have to be a touchdown. His job is to move the chains, work the ball downfield and get the ball into the end zone. He doesn’t have to make a spectacular play each and every play.”
WHO’S THE No. 2 QB?
Should a backup be needed for Hills, it’s anyone’s guess who will take his place.
Among those who don’t know is Edsall.
“I don’t yet,” Edsall said. “That’s why they’re here.”
“They” refers to Devin Burns and Caleb Rowe, who are listed as co-backups. Like Hills, neither has taken a college snap as a quarterback.
BOWERS DOUBTFUL
Maryland’s injury-depleted defense is unlikely to have anyone back in time for Saturday, with the possible exception of sophomore end Keith Bowers.
“I think Keith out of all those guys … right now, as we go to practice today, he’s doubtful,” Edsall said. “It doesn’t look good to have any of those guys for this game.”
The group certain to miss Saturday includes safeties A.J. Hendy and Matt Robinson, defensive ends Andre Monroe and Isaiah Ross and linebacker Kenny Tate.
The absence of Ross severely limits the chances of Maryland establishing a seven-man rotation on the defensive line. Instead, the Terps will likely have four ends (Justin Anderson, A.J. Francis, Quinton Jefferson and Joe Vellano) and two nose tackles (Darius Kilgo and Alex Walker) to shuttle in and out.
—- Patrick Stevens
