A few thoughts on Saturday’s first half at Byrd Stadium, where Maryland trails 14-7 to Connecticut.
UPSIDE
SEE RELATED:
* Tailback Wes Brown has distinguished himself, with three carries for 38 yards and Maryland’s lone touchdown. The freshman now has 10 rushes for 88 yards and a score (and two lost fumbles) this season.
* The pass defense has been solid enough so far. Connecticut’s only gain of more than seven yards was a desperate toss over the middle to tight end John Delahunt, who rumbled 19 yards. That’s not secondary-torching stuff by any stretch.
* A.J. Francis and Cole Farrand both had crunching tackles for loss, while Darin Drakeford made a fine play to force a fumble early in the game.
DOWNSIDE
* Perry Hills had a half to forget. He was 2-for-11 for 24 yards and an interception, though it’s not his fault a few of his long pass attempts have been broken up.
* Maryland could rue its special teams breakdowns on Nick Williams‘ 58-yard punt return for a score. The offenses, such as they are, have each scored a touchdown. UConn’s return touchdown stands as the difference to date.
* Third down has not treated Maryland well. The Terps are 0-for-6 on third down, with only one of the attempts coming on less than third-and-7. Maryland has been behind schedule all day and has only 80 yards on 28 plays.
—- Patrick Stevens
