A 30-16 loss to Florida State knocked Maryland out of the race for the ACC Atlantic title. But there were plenty of positives Saturday night at Byrd Stadium.
1. Offensive line » Despite another major injury (Justin Lewis), the Terps produced their best work up front this season. Going against a defense that ranked second in the ACC against the rush and first in sacks, the line paved the way for Da’Rel Scott (10 carries, 87 yards) and Davin Meggett (11 carries, 72 yards), and protected quarterback Danny O’Brien. Freshman Pete White was solid as a fill-in at right guard. The Terps also used talented true freshman Max Garcia, who will play a lot in the final two games now that the Terps have burned his redshirt.
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2. Kenny Tate » The junior safety, who had an interception and seven tackles — including two for losses, finally is realizing his enormous potential.
3. James Franklin » The offensive coordinator mixed plays, keeping the FSU defense off-balance. With more confidence in his line and quarterback, Franklin is free to open up the playbook and use his creativity.
4. The crowd » Let’s not get crazy here. The Terps drew more for games against Villanova (2007) and Central Michigan (2008). But the crowd of 48,115 was at least a sign that some disenchanted fans are buying back into Ralph Friedgen’s reclamation project.
