Staff Roundtable: Michigan vs Maryland, who wins and why?
By Josh LaFond
In our second week of the staff roundtable, we discuss the Michigan football game against Maryland, what to look for, and give a score prediction.
A matchup that was once dubbed a “trap game” in the pre-season is not looking as challenging as it once did in the offseason.
Maryland’s passing defense ranks in the bottom 25 nationally, coming in at 107th, and you better believe the Wolverines are primed and ready to see the national emergence of the J.J. McCarthy-led aerial assault take flight.
On the other hand, the Terrapins can score in bunches and under head coach Mike Locksley, have been known to give some of the big dogs in the conference a scare or two. How will Michigan football’s defense respond? That’ll be my biggest question going into this game.
But enough of just my ramblings, what does our staff think about this game?
Join me as we preview the Maryland game in this week’s edition of our roundtable.
Enjoy.
What potential challenge does Maryland present?
Jared Dettmer: The Terrapins are undoubtedly the toughest opponent yet for Michigan football, and that starts with their offensive attack. With third-year starter Taulia Tagovailoa at quarterback, Maryland may have the best passing offense the Wolverines will see all year other than Ohio State. The defense will be tested in this one for sure, especially on the outside.
Josh LaFond: Maryland is going to be the first offense Michigan has played to date with a pulse. Though Taulia Tagovailoa isn’t the most accurate quarterback and is prone to making mistakes, his gun-slinger mentality and dual-threat ability will be tough to handle if he gets hot early.
Chris Peterson: The Terps have the best offense and defense Michigan has seen so far. And a quarterback with the potential to get hot, as well as a talented group of receivers gives me cause for concern.