Story By: Sol Tucker
Photos By: Sol Tucker
College Park, MD–
There was a lot of talk about the offseason moves that Terps Head Coach Mike Locksley had made to put together a winning team for this upcoming season. Today, Locksley proved some of what he has envisioned for this season came together for a 31-10 season opening victory over Buffalo.
“It’s always great to be able to get a first victory, especially here at home,” head coach Mike Locksley said. “We’re pleased with the way we were able to do some things today on offense, defense, special teams, but obviously, game one, there’s obviously a lot of things we’ve still got to get corrected, as I expect us to.”
Maryland’s offense showed its potential on the opening drive of the season. It took the Terps just five plays to drive 78 yards down the field for their first score of the season. Redshirt freshman running back Roman Hemby punctuated the drive with a 33-yard touchdown run to give Maryland a 7-0 lead.
Buffalo’s first drive was a three-and-out, forcing a quick punt from the Bulls. On the ensuing Buffalo drive, Maryland transfers Henry Chibueze (Liberty) and Vandarius Cowan (West Virginia) teamed up for a sack.
The Bulls failed to put any points on the board on their first five drives thanks to Maryland’s stifling defense.
On quite a few drives in the second half, it looked like Buffalo was confused about what play would work against the Maryland defense. Their 2 and 3 yard carries just did not move the ball down in scoring position and they spent all of the third quarter scoreless.
Maryland was driving again midway through the third quarter when Tagovailoa threw his first interception of the season trying to target tight end Corey Dyches across the middle of the field.
“You are going to make a few mistakes in your opening game, said Locksley. You just have to hope those mistakes don’t cost you the game. In this case, Buffalo was unable to do anything but punt again after the interception.
