Over the final 25 minutes of regulation, the Terps played the “rope-a-dope” against the bigger Demon Deacons.

After the Terps jumped out to a 23-15 lead in the first half, a 15-4 Wake Forest run erased the advantage and seemingly put Maryland on the verge of a blowout loss. However, every time it appeared Wake Forest was ready to seize complete control and put Maryland away, the Terps grabbed the loose ball, capitalized with a put-back, or forced a turnover, keeping themselves within striking distance despite shooting only 40 percent from the field and struggling with their half-court offense.

The scrappy effort—and huge 3-point baskets by Landon Milbourne and Eric Hayes in the final minutes—landed the Terps temporary leads and eventually into overtime before Maryland lost its punching power, falling to Wake Forest, 85-83.

As has been the case for much of his four-year career in College Park, Greivis Vasquez kept the Terps (10-5, 1-1) in the game seemingly by himself, scoring 30 points and handing out seven assists. Unfortunately, even Vasquez ran out of gas in overtime, shooting only 1-for-6 and missing a key free throw. The senior missed a 3-pointer with 10 seconds remaining before Sean Mosley missed another, ending Maryland’s hopes of stealing a huge ACC road win.

Expectations were relatively high for this year’s team with experts pointing to the Terps’ experience—led by seniors Vasquez, Hayes, and Milbourne—as the main reason, but none of the three had what it took to get Maryland over the hump in overtime, as they combined for only three points in the extra period.

Aside from their late second-half heroics, Milbourne and Hayes were quiet throughout the night, as the undersized Milbourne (11 points on 5-for-15 shooting) wore down against the Deacons’ frontcourt and Hayes (8 points) never got into the flow of the game after first-half foul trouble.

And while Mosley (8 points, 13 rebounds) looked to be emerging earlier in the season as a consistent scoring option to complement Vasquez, the sophomore hasn’t looked the same since spraining his ankle in practice on Christmas night. Mosley has averaged just 8 points per game since coming back from the injury, though his defensive prowess cannot be overlooked.

So, once again, it was Vasquez needing to do it. It’s no secret the Terps live and die with the senior from Caracas, Venezuela, but it’s clear no one other than Vasquez could step up to help secure the win Tuesday night. To his credit, freshman Jordan Williams (12 points) stood his ground against the imposing Wake big men, but it was hardly enough to compensate for the Terps’ other deficiencies in the paint.

Maryland clearly lacks the talent of a young big man such as Al-Farouq Aminu (24 points and 13 rebounds) who can seemingly take over a game in the low post, so it must rely on its transition game and experience to come up big on the road. And while Vasquez did it for most of the night, his effort alone wasn’t enough.

It may not have been a game the Terps were expected—or even needed—to win, but it hurts knowing they came so painfully close to the knockout and a road win, something the Terps will need to do at least a few times this season if they want to be “dancing” in March.

Tuesday night could have been an impressive win to jump-start another NCAA tournament push, but instead, it will simply go down as a blown opportunity for the Terrapins.

Check out the final stats right here and the live blog below.

____________________________________________________

10:28 p.m. — SO close, but the Terps come up just short.

Mosley got a great look on the 3-pointer off the dribble after grabbing the rebound off the Vasquez miss.

Maryland falls in overtime, 85-83.

I agree with Gary Williams’ decision to go for the victory there. Just wish it had been a different result.

Back shortly with some final post-game thoughts.

10:24 p.m. — Smith hits the off-balanced runner to give Wake the lead at 85-83.

I don’t know how he made that.

Timeout, Maryland, with 14.8 seconds remaining. You would have to think Vasquez gets the ball here.

10:22 p.m. — A Vasquez foul sends Aminu to the line for two. He makes 1-of-2.

On the other end, Jordan Williams gets the tip-in off the Vasquez miss to tie it at 83!

10:20 p.m. — Two poor shots by Vasquez on that possession. No other way to describe it.

Maryland trails 82-81 with 1:01 remaining.

10:19 p.m. — Maryland gets out in transition, and Mosley takes it to the hole and draws the foul.

Can we PLEASE make our free throws?

Mosley drains both of them to make it a one-point game.

10:17 p.m. — Aminu picks up his fourth foul, sending Vasquez to the line. The senior misses the first but gets the second. Free throw shooting letting the Terps down here in overtime.

10:16 p.m. — Vasquez tries to draw the foul and puts up an air ball. Mosley grabs the offensive board but steps on the line. Gary Williams does not like the call.

Stewart hits another jumper, and Wake leads by 4.

10:14 p.m. — Ari Stewart gets the jumper to fall to give Wake a lead of 80-78 with 3:09 remaining. Timeout, Maryland.

10:13 p.m. — Williams misses two free throws. That hurts.

10:12 p.m. — Aminu hits a pair of freebies, and we’re tied at 78 with 3:45 to play.

10:10 p.m. — Vasquez hits the first basket of overtime to give Maryland the lead.

Wake cannot generate any offense on the other end, but the Deacons grab the offensive board. Following another miss, Milbourne pulls the board but travels with it.

Jordan Williams returns, giving Maryland a big lineup, but a few seconds later, Gregory fouls out. So much for the big lineup.

10:08 p.m. — As Glenn Clark pointed out on our Twitter feed (@WNST), it was hard not to think about another contest down in Winston-Salem when Laron Profit hit a game-winnter against Wake. Too bad we didn’t see a similar ending, but we’ll take overtime.

10:05 p.m. — OVERTIME. You’d like to get a better look than a Sean Mosley fadeaway jumper, but it was the right play by Vasquez to dish it to him.

10:04 p.m. — Aminu hits the free throw to tie the game. Timeout is called by Dino Gaudio.

10:03 p.m. — Vasquez with a huge jumper to regain the lead for the Terps.

A few moments later, Aminu pump fakes and draws a foul from Milbourne on a 3-point shot. A terrible play from a senior in that spot.

Aminu misses the first, makes the second, and Gary Williams will use a timeout to ice the sophomore on the third one.

10:00 p.m. — McFarland gets the tip-in off the Smith miss. Tie game.

9:59 p.m. — Hayes with a big three to give Maryland a 74-72 lead.

Maryland’s other seniors have finally emerged after quiet nights.

9:58 p.m. — Harris is fouled by Vasquez, and the frosh hits both free throws to give Wake a two-point lead.

Hayes cannot hit a deep three, but Milbourne chases it down. A moment later, Milbourne hits a THREE to give Maryland a one-point lead!

9:55 p.m. — Milbourne with a HUGE jumper from the corner to tie it at 65.

Harris hits another three to immediately grab the lead back, but Vasquez hits a three of his own. WOW!

9:53 p.m. — We’ve reached the final media timeout of the second half with Maryland trailing Wake, 65-63, with 3:54 to play.

What more could the Terps ask for despite shooting only 38 percent from the field in this one?

9:51 p.m. — Vasquez almost hits the runner in the lane after being fouled by L.D. Williams, his fifth foul. That’s a big loss for the Deacons.

The senior hits both free throws, cutting the lead to two. Maryland continues to hang right there despite their offensive woes.

9:49 p.m. — Another offensive rebound for the Deacons will send L.D. Williams to the charity stripe. He makes 1-of-2 to push the lead to four points.

9:47 p.m. — Vasquez has now gone ice cold. It’s just hard to envision the Terps pulling this one out with no one shooting well at this point.

9:45 p.m. — Does anyone else get the feeling the deficit is bigger than only five? This game has the feel of Wake being in complete control, but the Terps are one big run away from retaking the lead.

9:43 p.m. — We’ve reached the under-8 timeout with Wake Forest leading by five points. Maryland is just doing nothing on the offensive end.

9:41 p.m. – Smith drains a jumper, and the senior now has 12.

With Vasquez out of the game, it’s clear no one wants to take the shot. Following the block on Bowie, Wake finishes in transition with an Aminu dunk. Ugh.

9:39 p.m. — With Vasquez now cooling off, it’s imperative that SOMEONE steps up for the Terps.

A beautiful look from Vasquez on the in-bounds play leads to a layup for Jordan Williams. Maryland trails by three points at 60-57.

9:36 p.m. — Great anticipation from Bowie, grabbing the steal and going the distance for the layup, giving him 10 points for the game.

Perhaps that play can get the Terps going with 10 minutes to play.

9:35 p.m. — We’ve reached an official timeout with Wake leading the Terps, 58-53.

Though Mosley is the Terps’ leading rebounding with eight in the game, I’m beginning to wonder what toll the sprained ankle sustained on Christmas night has taken on the sophomore. The improved shooting stroke and offensive production we saw early in the year has disappeared.

Mosley has averaged only 8.0 ppg since the injury going into tonight, and he only has four in this one. He appeared to be the best candidate to become that second scoring option behind Vasquez, but it simply hasn’t happened since the injury.

9:30 p.m. — Padgett simply NEEDS to play stronger in the paint. Efforts like that are not going to draw any calls from officials—or any more playing time from Gary Williams.

Someone has to step up for the Terps other than Vasquez. Just nothing going offensively.

9:27 p.m. — Woods just ERASED that shot from Vasquez. Maryland then has trouble getting the ball in and has to throw it to the backcourt.

Vasquez turns it over, leading to a layup for Smith.

Timeout, Maryland. Wake leads by six as the Terps are having trouble generating much of anything on the offensive end.

9:23 p.m. — Smith hits a jumper from behind the free throw line. He’s been quite tonight.

Following a Mosley miss, Woods gets the jam and Wake leads by six. Danger time for the Terps here.

9:21 p.m. — A very smart play by Vasquez to draw the foul on the long jumper (foot on the line), leading to L.D. Williams picking up his third foul.

9:19 p.m. — Maryland is REALLY struggling on the glass now as the bigger Demon Deacons are beginning to show why they’re the top rebounding team in the conference.

We’ve reached our first official timeout of the second half with Wake Forest leading the Terps, 50-47.

9:17 p.m. — The one-handed runner by Vasquez cuts the lead to three. The Terps will need their leader to have a similar effort to what he showed against Florida State on Sunday.

9:15 p.m. — Mosley with a nice offensive board and finds Williams for a close-range shot. However, McFarland drains a long one for Wake.

Mosley with a beautiful pass to Milbourne, but the senior forward blows the layup. You cannot miss that shot.

9:14 p.m. — Hayes loses the ball out of bounds, Maryland’s ninth turnover. The Terps did a better job protecting the ball as the first half progressed, but it’s been a sloppy effort overall.

Aminu’s one-handed jam gives Wake a five-point advantage.

9:12 p.m. — Mike Gminski REALLY doesn’t have HD television? Wow, I thought I was the last one before finally seeing the light a couple months ago.

9:00 p.m. — Check out the first half stats right here.

8:55 p.m. — Gregory picks up his third foul with five seconds to go in the half. Not good, but I suppose it’s better than Jordan Williams picking it up.

Following a timeout, Vasquez misses a long three at the buzzer to close out the first half.

Wake Forest leads Maryland, 42-39. Definitely a disappointing finish to the half as the Terps had control of this one up until the seven-minute mark.

8:53 p.m. — Vasquez grabs the offensive rebound and is fouled. In the double bonus, Vasquez drains a pair of free throws for the Terps.

Smith misses a layup, and the Terps get out in transition, leading to Bowie being fouled on the layup attempt. The junior hits both freebies, giving him eight points. Bowie has played some quality minutes in Hayes’ absence due to foul trouble.

8:51 p.m. — Foul trouble is clearly plaguing the Terps as Williams, Gregory, and Hayes are all stuck on the bench with two fouls. It’s not coincidence the Deacons–and Aminu–began to wake up after that.

Harris hits a long triple to give Wake a five-point advantage. However, Bowie hits a RARE 3-pointer on the other end.

C.J. Harris just drilled ANOTHER triple from Raleigh to give him 13 points for the game. He’s only averaging 11.6 a game.

Timeout, Maryland.

8:47 p.m. — Remember when I said Aminu was hung over from Saturday’s loss? So much for that as the sophomore now has 11 points.

8:42 p.m. — A 6-0 run followed by a 7-0 run a couple minutes later has turned an eight-point lead into a 3-point lead for Wake.

The Deacons are on a 15-4 run since the Terps lead 23-15 with just over seven minutes to go in the half.

8:41 p.m. — Chas McFarland with a nice play, keeping the loose ball alive, which leads to the Harris layup. That looked more like a volleyball game than anything.

Harris hits a 3-pointer and Maryland’s lead is gone. Wake leads 28-27 with 4:15 to go.

8:37 p.m. — Maryland is beaten in transition again, leading to a Gary Clark layup and Hayes’ second foul. Clark completes the three-point play to shave the lead to five points.

Milbourne’s shot is blocked by Aminu, and the big sophomore scores on the other end plus the foul. Aminu hits the free throw, and the momentum has clearly shifted in favor of the Deacons.

Timeout, Maryland.

8:34 p.m. — The Terps continue to impress, holding a 23-15 lead and rebounding advantage against the Demon Deacons as we reach the under-8 timeout.

8:31 p.m. — Tony Woods with the big two-handed dunk, drawing a second foul on Williams as the freshman was beaten on the baseline. I guess my previous compliment jinxed the big man.

Gregory is fouled on the other end and makes a pair of free throws after a lane violation gives him a second chance.

8:30 p.m. — Aminu is definitely showing a bit of a hangover from his poor effort against Miami. The star sophomore only has two free throws and has not made a field goal in the game’s first 10 minutes.

8:28 p.m. — Jordan Williams with the block, forcing the jump ball. He’s continuing to be more assertive in the paint as a frosh.

8:26 p.m. — Vasquez throws it away as he was clearly anticipating that Gregory would cut to the basket. I know Gary Williams loves the junior forward’s energy, but he has to show a bit more of an offensive game near the basket.

8:24 p.m. — Smith is off to a quick start of his own against the Terps as the senior has six points.

Milbourne scores on the other end to push the lead back up to four points.

Following a Smith miss on the other end, a huge scrum with multiple players diving for the loose ball results in it going out of bounds to Wake. The Terps weren’t able to secure the loose ball off the long rebound, but it’s nice to see the effort after some uninspiring rebounding efforts earlier in the year.

8:21 p.m. — Adrian Bowie and Dino Gregory have checked in as Vasquez drains another three. The Venezuelan is en fuego with eight points already!

Maryland leads Wake, 15-11, with 11:47 remaining at the second media timeout.

8:19 p.m. — Vasquez drives the lane and finds a wide-open Jordan Williams on the dunk, an absolutely beautiful look!

8:18 p.m. — Smith drains the long jumper and the Deacons regain the lead. Vasquez answers with a 3-ball.

L.D. Williams hits a triple of his own as we’re seeing a bit of a shootout right now.

8:17 p.m. — Vasquez posts up and hits the jump hook, taking advantage of the mismatch.

After Hayes picks up a foul, Ari Stewart misses a shot and it goes out of bounds to Maryland. Vasquez’s shot is blocked, but the Terps will keep it and then immediately turn it over.

Very sloppy start for the Terps in the turnover department.

8:12 p.m. — Aminu settles for another long jumper and misses. On the other end, Hayes splashes a triple.

We’ve reached our first official timeout with Wake leading the Terps, 6-5.

8:11 p.m. — Mosley with the foul on Aminu, sending the big sophomore to the line. He makes a pair of freebies, and the Deacons lead 4-0.

Hayes with a beautiful dish to a wide-open Jordan Williams for the dunk, but the Terps are beat on the other end for a L.D. Williams layup. The Terps CANNOT get beat in transition if they want a chance in this one.

8:09 p.m. — Maryland with two turnovers in about 10 seconds. Not taking care of the basketball early with three turnovers in a little over a minute.

Jordan Williams did a great job defending the Williams dunk, but Milbourne misses the jumper on the other end. Maryland scoreless in the first 2+ minutes of the game.

8:07 p.m. — Maryland grabs the opening tip (dressed in red). Mosley misses the first shot of the game, but Aminu takes a three on the other end and misses. He can stay out there all day long if it were up to me.

Williams is called for the offensive foul a possession later.

8:00 p.m. — Here are tonight’s starting lineups:

Maryland
G Greivis Vasquez
G Eric Hayes
G Sean Mosley
F Landon Milbourne
C Jordan Williams

Wake Forest
G Ishmael Smith
G C.J. Harris
G L.D. Williams
F Al-Farouq Aminu
C David Weaver

Steve Martin (no, not THAT one) and Mike Gminski will provide the call for Raycom Sports.

7:47 p.m. — As Terps fanatic and WNST host Bob Haynie astutely pointed out, the Demon Deacons’ size figures to be a serious concern for Gary Williams’s squad, but the Deacons are coming off a poor rebounding effort against Miami in which Gaudio criticized his team’s effort in boxing out.

The Terps won the rebounding effort against the Seminoles, an effort they will need to duplicate against Wake. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Gary Williams show some bigger looks at times tonight by using Jordan Williams and Dino Gregory or James Padgett at the same time, with Milbourne sliding down to the 3.

7:35 p.m. — Good evening, Terps fans, and Happy Festivus as we await the start of Maryland’s ACC road opener in Winston-Salem against Dino Gaudio’s Demon Deacons (11-3, 1-1). The Terps (10-4, 1-0) are fresh off a conference-opening 77-68 victory over Florida State at the Comcast Center on Sunday evening. My apologies for the lack of coverage as I was returning from Foxborough after the Ravens’ huge playoff victory over the Patriots.

Wake Forest will try to rebound from a disappointing 67-66 loss at Miami on Saturday. The Demon Deacons are led by sophomore forward Al-Farouq Aminu who leads the team in both points (16.8 per game) and rebounds (11.6 per game). The 6-foot-9 big man—along with 7-footer Chas McFarland—will clearly provide a huge challenge to Jordan Williams, Landon Milbourne, and the Maryland frontcourt.

Greivis Vasquez, as he’s done so many times in his four years in College Park, saved the Terps in the second half with a 17-point effort and 22 for the game, his sixth-straight game with 20 or more points. The senior drilled a 3-pointer with 2:23 remaining to push the Terps’ advantage to nine points after the Seminoles were trying to climb back into the game in the final minutes.

Maryland has an opportunity to post its most impressive win of the season if it can steal an ACC road victory after a quick turnaround from Sunday’s game. Interestingly enough, both the Terps and Demon Deacons have lost to William & Mary this season, so both schools would clearly like to earn a win against an opponent expected to be in the upper half of the conference this season.

Senior Eric Hayes needs only seven points to become the 48th Terp to reach the 1000-point mark in school history. The guard scored 17 points against the Seminoles in Sunday’s win.

Tonight’s game can be seen on WNUV-TV in Baltimore (the Raycom Sports network) at 8:00 p.m.

And don’t forget to follow us on Twitter (@WNST) for thoughts and updates throughout the contest.

Happy Tuesday!

Look, I’m trying to figure out how I feel about this whole steroids situation personally. I mean, clearly Mark McGwire has been embarrassed by having to finally publicly admit to steroid use, and there is little to no chance he will ever be able to shake it off and enter Baseball’s Hall of Fame.

BUT-using steroids to hit all of those home runs did help him get this……

So….they can’t be all bad, right?

Let’s see what everyone has to say…..

1. The AP’s David Ginsburg says Ravens taking similar path this year as they did last

With his point being that a season ago, the Ravens went on the road to blow out the AFC East champs, then went on the road to beat the #1 seed in the AFC. The Ravens have a chance to do the same thing this year, but I don’t think the comparison is fair. With no offense to Chad Pennington and Kerry Collins, I think it says a lot that the quarterbacks the Ravens beat last year are each currently NOT starters in the NFL.

The opponents the Ravens are facing this year are MUCH better than the ones they faced last year-and it absolutely starts at the QB position. The Ravens made a major statement by beating a team with an elite QB (Tom Brady is ABSOLUTELY “elite”), and that could help them build confidence as they look to beat an elite QB in Peyton Manning this week as well.

Me personally, I’d much rather be facing this guy in the playoffs…..

2. The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Harbaugh believes Flacco ‘healthy enough to play well’

I really don’t have much of an idea of just how bad things are for Joe Flacco. We can ALL tell that he’s laboring, but none of us really know just how bad it is because Joe and the coach of the team continue to dismiss it.

It is well understood that come playoff time-everyone in the league is banged up. But having your quarterback banged up and having a starting cornerback banged up are two VERY different things. This isn’t a case of whether or not Joe can play-obviously he can. But this IS a question of “what might happen?” if the Ravens trail 31-26 with 1:16 left and 1 timeout.

It could be an issue.

3. Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Todd Heap ‘expected to play’ Saturday night

ESPN.com’s James Walker added last night that the x-rays on Todd’s back came back negative, which is good news for everyone. Todd Heap won’t be the difference in Saturday night’s game, but we all know the Ravens are better off with a healthy Todd Heap than they are without one.

4. Indianapolis Star’s Mike Chappell says Colts have never won playoff game after first round bye

I think this is a completely relevant statistic that CANNOT be overlooked. Peyton Manning has NEVER won a playoff game after shutting things down or getting out of rhythm late in the season. Maybe the Colts will just be better at turning things back on under Jim Caldwell than they were under Jim Mora and Tony Dungy, but I somehow doubt it.

More importantly, whoever wins the toss in this game really needs to take the ball. If the Ravens can come out and dictate pace the way they did in Foxborough, a Colts offense that hasn’t tried to score points in weeks might be in a position to struggle a bit more.

We can at least hope.

5. NFL.com’s Vic Carucci says Colts most ‘vulnerable’ of home teams in 2nd round

Sure.

But they’re also the only home team in the 2nd round of the playoffs with Peyton Manning at quarterback and Reggie Wayne at wide receiver.

Look, the Colts are beatable. But not beatable with a big margin for error. Just beatable. As in, it’s possible.

6. WNST.net’s Nestor Aparicio announces Purple Playoff Parties in Broad Ripple section of Indy Friday night and Saturday afternoon

And who WOULDN’T want to come out and hang with a group of jerks like this???

Here’s what you should know about this picture:

1-Chris Bonetti (the fella on the right whose voice you’ve heard on commercials during the day on AM1570) IS a Jets fan, but they don’t play until Sunday-so you won’t have to worry about him rambling on. Also, he’s ABSOLUTELY rooting for the Ravens on Sunday night (partly because it helps New York), so he’s one of us.

2-Mike Gross (the 2nd guy on the right) is the webmaster at WNST.net. He also lost a game of Pop-A-Shot basketball to his girlfriend by a score of 22-4 on Saturday night at Dave & Buster’s. Is that relevant? No. Did I want to share it anyway? Of course I did.

7. Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Al-Farouq Aminu leads way as Wake Forest hosts Maryland tonight

The good news again here is that much like Florida State, the Demon Deacons are unlikely to reel off 12-16 points in a row thanks to outside shooting. The Terrapins can’t completely take away Wake’s size, but they should be able to stay close throughout. It’s a tall order to go to Winston-Salem just 48 hours after a big ACC win.

Boy.

75-71 Deacs.

But who knows.

8. WNST.net’s Drew Forrester wonders why Orioles haven’t signed Adam LaRoche

I have no problem with the Birds signing Adam LaRoche. Mostly because he’s capable of playing baseball.

Drew’s right, LaRoche is better than a number of the guys that are available-which of course means he probably wants some money-or maybe 2-3 years.

I get the feeling that might not work here.

9. The AP says Reggie Holmes’ 16 lead Morgan State in win over Hampton

This is what we expect from Todd Bozeman’s team, it’s MEAC season and they are VERY capable of winning any game they play. The combination of Holmes and Thompson will present problems for everyone in the conference. If they play well, they’ll beat everyone in the league.

10. Loyola Official Site says 22 turnovers doom Greyhounds in loss to Iona

As they would if Loyola was playing Stevenson, for the record.

Jimmy Patsos’ bunch is in a tough spot now in the MAAC. They had a great chance to make some noise early on in conference play, but very quickly they’re now 1-5.

I don’t think I need to be the one to tell anyone that 1-5 isn’t a good place to be.

11. The AP says Coppin fell to 5-9 overall after loss to Howard

This isn’t a “bad” loss for Fang Mitchell’s crew-but they certainly can’t afford to think that they can just turn things on come MEAC Tournament time. Replacing Tywain McKee’s scoring continues to be an issue for the Eagles.

12. The AP says Maryland women hung on late to beat ranked Cavaliers in Charlottesville

By far the best win of the season for Brenda Frese’s crew, even if it wasn’t overly impressive. When Tchatchouang missed those freebies at the end of the game, I really wished I could pronounce her name better when I was cursing it.

And finally, I offer this.

It wasn’t exactly Bret Hart, but the WWE managed to keep my interest last night by bringing in Iron Mike Tyson to guest “host” RAW. He even decided to step in the ring and tag with Chris Jericho to take on Shawn Michaels and HHH at the end of the night. It did provide one pretty cool moment….

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vBokxrZvUs[/youtube]

Talk to you later.

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…..

-G

Maryland was pathetic in their 17-13 loss to Duke on Saturday.

The play-calling was pathetic. The play-execution was pathetic. They rotated being pathetic offensively, defensively, and on special teams.

It was an embarrassing loss for a team that has made a season out of embarrassment.

They’re just not good enough.

And with the loss, it is time for Ralph Friedgen to let go of his trust in and respect for Senior QB Chris Turner and begin to look at the future.

Being 2-6 this season (1-3 ACC) is NOT Chris Turner’s fault alone. Moreover, if we were putting together a Drew Forrester “percentage pie” to assign blame for why this team has been so bad this season, Turner would probably get less than half of the pie. Not because he’s been good this season (he hasn’t), but because there are MANY more areas of blame. The defense was bad early in the season. The offensive line has been bad THROUGHOUT the season. Da’Rel Scott and Davin Meggett have been much too “fumble-y” for talented Running Backs.

However, those are areas where the current players NEED to play. The defense is young and has improved vastly. The offensive line is young, and the veterans are actual NFL prospects (Phil Costa and Bruce Campbell). Da’Rel Scott (junior) and Davin Meggett (sophomore) will each be back next season. Quarterback is the only position where this team isn’t building for the future of building a player for his own football future.

Chris Turner is not going to be a professional football player. The next 4 games will not help get him ready for the NFL Draft. They will not make him a better option for the CFL. Chris just isn’t good enough to play professionally. While Ralph Friedgen may feel as though he “owes it” to Chris to continue to play him, it will do nothing for either party other than help the QB’s pride. Chris has carved his place in Maryland’s record books, and he will always be remembered as the quarterback who helped the Terps to some VERY big wins (@Rutgers, Boston College, Cal, North Carolina, etc.). But the Terps don’t need a big game winner anymore. Hopes of an EagleBank Bowl trip have about as much life in them as Y.A. Tittle did on The Comcast Morning Show Friday.

The first question to be asked will be “What do Jamarr Robinson and Danny O’Brien have to gain by facing NC State, Virginia Tech, Florida State and Boston College? The only possible answer is that the quarterbacks will at least have game experience before taking the field in September. One of these guys is going to HAVE to play. This isn’t the same as sticking a QB in to be a sacrificial lamb. One of them HAS to play, and the offensive line will not suddenly be WORLDS better next season. Robinson would presumably be the better choice given the fact that this is his 3rd year in the system, he can’t get a redshirt year, and he is a bit more mobile.

The Terps will play Fork Union in a JV game this week. These games are known as chances for head coaches to learn about what they have for the future. My suggestion is that this coaching staff-which has had no problem going with younger players (like Caleb Porzel) at other positions now add quarterback to the list of positions they take time to evaluate.

-G

————————————————————–

4:36-Scratch that. What a disaster. Duke can run out the rest of the clock after a Tony Logan muff. 17-13 Devils. I’ll put the finishing thoughts on this one in a minute.

4:35-Hey now! A big defensive play! Duke has to punt! Maryland gets one more chance! Good luck Chris!

4:34-Duke faces 3rd and 18 after a holding call. I’m sorry I’m not updating much, I guess I just have a feeling about how this story will end…..

4:28-I just poked over to InsideMDSports.com to see if John Turner had any thoughts on the 4th quarter. Nothing that I’ve seen so far.

I thought we were going to see Jamarr Robinson in this game?

4:24-A first down on a penalty is still a first down.

An interception is NOT a first down. Vincent Ray intercepts Chris Turner, and Duke takes over with 4:09 to play in the game.

Chris Turner is not exactly re-writing his legacy…..

4:19-Great play by Jared Harrell, and Duke forced to punt. Maryland will take over at their own 21. 5:03 to play, I say this is 4 down territory. But few care about what I say.

4:12-Maryland forced to punt, and Duke will take over from their own 40 with under 7 minutes to play in the game. Not sure why Maryland has insisted on trying to run when it has done basically nothing for them.

4:10-Big pass interference call drawn by LaQuan Williams. Maryland gets a first down at the 14. I would probably be throwing more on this drive.

Drew-maybe just react accordingly?

4:06-I can’t tell if it was a fumble or not. I guess they can’t overturn it.

4:03-With under 10 minutes to play, Thad Lewis took off for the goal line-and HUGE DEFENSIVE PLAY! MARYLAND BALL! Wow, I didn’t even see the fumble. What a big play.

3:58-And a great screen play to Jay Hollingsworth. Argh.

3:57-Conner Vernon goes over 100 yards receiving, and Thad Lewis had plenty of time to throw the ball. Frustrating.

3:54-Nice play by Vince Oghobaase to knock down that pass, and Maryland will be forced to punt. Of course…….

3:50-BIG throw by Chris Turner and BIG catch by Adrian Cannon for a first down. Maryland is actually moving the ball….

3:49-And instead of a 10 yard gain for Porzel, the Terps go backwards due to a holding call. 2 plays later, it’s 3rd and long again. Think they have another Davin Meggett screen in them?

3:47-Hey now! A 3 and out from the Maryland defense, and they’ll take over at their own 34. Tony Foster with a nice spceial teams play for Duke.

3:43-Chris Turner now has 6.284 career passing yards. He surpasses Boomer Esiason on the all-time career passing yards list in Maryland history, now 2nd all-time just behind Scott Milanovich. (Thanks ESPN360!) Also, Maryland scored their first TD since the 4th quarter against the Demon Deacons.

3:41-And I spoke too soon. Davin Meggett breaks off a 67 yard TD score on 3rd and long; and they cut the lead to 17-13. Thank God.

3:40-This is not an offense. This is nothing.

3:36-Great catch by Danny Parker on the 2 yard TD pass by Thad Lewis. I have to keep watching because????? 17-6 Duke.

3:29-The 360 guys are pretty certain Conner Vernon pushed off there. Don’t know that it matters.

3:28-At least they’ve been able to get some sacks in recent weeks. There’s a nice one from Ben Pooler.

3:26-Deege Galt is down; but was able to get back up and leave the field under his own power. Maybe just had the wind knocked out of him.

3:23-Big downfield pass from Thad Lewis to Johnny Williams. Would like to see the team wearing white make some nice downfield passes.

3:20-Caleb Porzel is best used in a Ray Rice type of role. James Franklin needs to continue to do a better job of getting Porzel the ball in space. He cannot expect Porzel to be successful with the same plays Da’Rel Scott is successful with.

3:12-Hey, the 2nd half started. That’s neat. Chris Turner was 0/1 in the 2nd quarter. That isn’t good. Porzel 11 rushes for 21 yards? He actually has had some good runs, too. Genyk thinks Tom Brattan was probably pretty angry at halftime. I bet he’s right.

2:47-Snyderwine field goal made it 10-6 Duke. Maryland has to find their way into the end zone at some point.

2:38-It has been a long time since this team has scored a TD. 4th quarter against Wake.

Duke faces 3rd and 5. PLEASE GET THEM OFF THE FIELD!

2:34-Duke with a screen for 35 on 3rd and 5. Do I have to keep doing this?

2:29-Terps again get nothing going and are forced to settle for a 40 yard FG from Ferrara. 7-6 Duke.

2:26-Pass intended for Conner Vernon intercepted by Cam Chism, who I think has shown serious signs of being a future star for this team. If the Devils are going to continue to force the ball through the air, the Terps MUST force turnovers.

2:22-Probably the right decision to have Chris Turner run there, and a GREAT special teams play by Trenton Hughes.

2:21-I’m happy to see Ralph play Porzel, but that doesn’t mean he should ONLY play Porzel, right? Davin Meggett and Morgan Green DID make the trip. Terps face 3rd and 14….

2:20-Bruce Campbell described as “answering the bell.” At least someone is….

2:18-FINALLY a big defensive play, as the Terps recover a fumble and take over at their own 28.

Some solid running from Caleb Porzel thus far. I’ve said before that they need to call him Caleb “Touches” Porzel.

RJ Dill started at Right Tackle today? Maybe Fridge should wander around campus one day looking for a big guy…..

2:16-Can I take this time to remind everyone that they care so much about football in Durham that they actually use Wallace Wade Stadium as a parking lot for Cameron Indoor Stadium?

2:14-Bubble screen to Austin Kelly gets Devils inside the 40 as the 1st quarter comes to a close. It might as well.

2:10-Antwine Perez is going to have to be taken off the field via stretcher. More bad news for Terps’ defense.

2:06-Thaddeus Lewis is a HELL of an athlete. Terps must be careful to not let him get things going on the ground, either.

It’s raining in Durham. I don’t feel bad for anyone there after the nightmare we had at Byrd Stadium last week.

There’s a big throw to Donovan Varner. Of course there is. And Antwine Perez is down. Good news all around.

2:03-Chris Turner can’t find Adrian Cannon in the endzone, and the Terps are forced to settle for a Nick Ferrara field goal to make things 7-3 Duke. Good to see Ferrara make his first kick after missing his last 2 against the Cavaliers in the rain. Ferrara should benefit from having Travis Baltz able to punt again this week, as that should allow him to approve on kickoffs.

2:00-Very successful passing drive here. Completions to Adrian Cannon, Kevin Dorsey, Porzel, and Torrey Smith have the Terps inside the 10. The “Wild Turtle” play by Torrey Smith got nothing.

1:52-Solid defensive play by Adrian Moten, but not a play later Lewis finds Brandon King on a slant, and he takes it in to give Duke an early 7-0 lead. Christ.

1:50-Duke wasn’t afraid to go right back to Donovan Varner, and they have the ball to Maryland’s 30. David Cutcliffe’s Devils aren’t going to be afraid to throw the ball today; so they Maryland defense is going to need to force some turnovers.

1:49-Great play by Cam Chism to force Duke into a 3rd and 7. Donovan Varner must be HURTING.

1:47-The Terps would be more than willing to let Thad Lewis throw the ball into triple coverage all day.

1:45-Some commercials today on ESPN360. Weird.

1:43-Terps have REALLY struggled on 4th down conversions. Porzel (who is SMALL) stopped well short on 4th and 1 by Vincent Ray, and Duke takes over.

1:41-Terps went to Porzel for their first 4 offensive plays of the game, including a 15 yard reception from Chris Turner on 3rd down. Terps worked their way to the Devils’ 40, where Turner’s pass to Ronnie Tyler left them a yard short.

I’d go for it here.

1:39-Don Brown’s defense with a big 3 and out against a fairly powerful Duke offense. Thaddeus Lewis had plenty of time to throw, though.

Nice punt return by Tony Logan, and Caleb Porzel is your first back into the game. The team is playing without both Da’Rel Scott and Gary Douglas. Think Davin Meggett’s fumbles are the reason Ralph Friedgen and James Franklin started the freshman?

1:22-Luke Jones is in College Park today for the Maryland basketball scrimmage, so I am here on my couch to keep you company as the Terrapins battle Duke in Durham. The Terps come into the game 2-5 (1-2 ACC) after back to back losses to Wake Forest and Virginia. The Devils come into the game 3-3 (1-1) ACC off a bye week following a 49-28 win over NC State.

The game can be seen live on ESPN360 with Bob Weekley and Jeff Genyk on the call.

-G

Here are your weekend picks….

Maryland 23, Duke 13

I don’t care what Eron Riley (and everyone else) says. Maryland is NOT losing a football game to Duke. They’re NOT. I refuse to believe so.

Wake Forest 28, Navy 17

I think losing Ricky Dobbs REALLY hurts the Mids.

Towson 16, Northeastern 6

The Huskies are TERRIBLE. Rob Ambrose’s bunch can’t lose games that are should-win, since there are only a couple on the schedule.

Morgan State 20, Delaware State 12

The Bears are playing REALLY good football right now.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say….

Best of Thursday’s WNST Blogs:

Bob Haynie wonders who Ravens’ MVP is 6 weeks in

Drew Forrester calls out nameless commentators

Ed Frankovic says Caps 5-4 winners over Thrashers

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ngata believes defense needs to play ‘technically-sound football’

The Official Site says Ray Lewis, Todd Heap, Domonique Foxworth nominated for Community Service Award

The Sun’s Ken Murray says Dwan Edwards making difference after undergoing spinal fusion

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Samari Rolle believes secondary needs to ‘make plays’

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Dwan Edwards made most of chance to start for Trevor Pryce

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco says Ravens do NOT have dominant defense

ESPN.com’s James Walker interested in seeing how much secondary improves during bye week

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Terrell Skinner, Danny Edwards will carry flags on field for tomorrow’s trip to Duke

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Gary Douglas OUT, Davin Meggett and Caleb Porzel will have to shoulder load at RB

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Chris Turner explained squabble with Friedgen as ‘misunderstanding’

Carroll County Times’ Matt Zenitz says Bruce Campbell’s injury has really hurt Chris Turner

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Kerry Boykins, Bennett Fulper will also miss tomorrow’s game against Devils

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Fridge may have to choose between giving Morgan Green another shot or burning D.J. Adams’ redshirt

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Turner thinks Terps will be ‘loaded’ at QB in Spring

Washington Post’s Matt Bonesteel says Linganore OL prospect Havenstein picked Wisconsin over Terps

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps facing Devils for first time in 5 years

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens picks Duke 28-21

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says RB Re’quan Boyette, LB Abraham Kromah, WR Tyree Watkins will all miss tomorrow’s game for Duke

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says class of ’08 already panning out

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Gary Douglas will miss game with shoulder injury

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Stephen St. John not moving up to varsity yet, will play in JV game

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Lansford Watson will also miss game

Washington Examiner’s Kevin Dunleavy says Maryland, Duke battling to avoid being worst team in ACC

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich picks Duke 28-20

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Carl Russell has improved this season (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says TE Schlothhauer called up to varsity, will travel to Durham (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Matt Owings offers quick facts for Terps, Blue Devils

Turtle Sports Report’s Pete Volk says Tyler Smith still fully committed to Terps (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Dino Gregory likely to be 5th starter

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says Adrian Bowie, Cliff Tucker, Dino Gregory worked out with trainer Jay Hernandez in offseason

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Gary Williams doesn’t want to stick around too long, ‘cheat’ college basketball

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Terrence Ross hung with future teammates James Padgett, Jordan Williams earlier this month (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says guard prospect Kenny Chery playing for former Terps assistant Michael Adams at Archbishop Carroll (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports’ Report’s Pete Volk checks in with ’10 prospect Tsafack (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter expects Dara Taylor, Anjale Barrett, Lynetta Kizer, Essence Townsend, Diandra Tchatchouang to be starting 5 for Terps (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says kicker Joe Buckley hot right now

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Dobbs OUT for tomorrow’s game against Wake

Washington Post’s Camille Powell stacks up Proctor against Wake Forest QB Riley Skinner

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Kriss Proctor will start for Dobbs

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Dobbs hurt himself on 2nd play of win over SMU

Winston-Salem Journal says Niumatalolo has ‘confidence’ in Proctor

Go Mids’ David Ausiello says Dobbs could return next week against Temple

Go Mids’ Adam Nettina says Mids will need ‘resiliency’ to beat Demon Deacons (must subscribe)

Go Mids offers quick facts for Terps, Deacs

NAVY BASKETBALL:

The Official Site checks in with Midshipmen during first week of practice

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site’s Dan O’Connell remembers Tigers’ ’92 thriller over Northeastern

UMBC BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says 4 Retrievers games will air on MASN

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Alden Gonzalez says Birds must make decisions on free agents Danys Baez, Mark Hendrickson

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Perrault threw scoreless inning of relief in Arizona Fall League

HORSE RACING:

The Sun’s Sandra McKee says Laurel-based Ravalo happy to be running at home in De Francis Dash

SWIMMING:

UK Press says Phelps headed to Great Britain for first time in December for ‘Duel in the Pool’

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-John Turner asked that we not discuss anything further, but here is what I can share with you from him….

“It’s gotten WAY too much attention. It’s a message board. Never meant for it to go to the media.

There have been other threads on the same topic and it was never publicized. I should have kept quiet. It’s embarrassing me and my family.”

I’m not gonna bother to go any farther than this. John needs to know that his public comments on a message board are available for ANYONE to see; but he was right to say he “should have kept quiet.”

-I was talking to a NFC Scout yesterday-who played for 10 years as a defensive player in the NFL. He said this to me about the blame everyone through towards Frank Walker in the 2nd half of the loss to the Vikings….

“Blaming Frank Walker for what happened in that game would be akin to blaming a wide receiver for not catching a football that is thrown 2 feet over his head. In those situations, there is nothing else a cornerback can do. The ball is WAY over his head because a play has broken down due to missed assignments and too much time for a CB to throw the ball.”

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

The invitation is out there. If John Turner would like to come on with us (or just respond personally to my follow-up email) regarding our questions about his statements regarding Debbie Yow, I’d be happy to rescind my statements regarding him. If you’re not sure what I’m talking about, I invite you to head over to the Audio Vault at WNST.net to listen to this morning’s “Cheap Shots From The Bleachers” segment.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…..

Best of Wednesday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark says Harbaugh originally planned to have Ravens practice today as well

Drew Forrester says Ravens fans need bye week as much as Ravens players

Derek Arnold says Flacco, Ray Rice ‘played like a Raven’ in loss to Vikings

Ed Frankovic says Semin may miss Caps’ game against Thrashers tonight

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Flacco missed practice this week with swollen ankle

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Frank Walker knows he needs to ‘improve’ after 2 pass interference calls in loss to Vikings

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ray Rice so good even some people in front office surprised

The Official Site says Harbs went out of his way to defend Oher in final press conference before bye week

The Official Site says Lardarius Webb has been learning from Ed Reed, Domonique Foxworth, Fabian Washington, Frank Walker

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Flacco rolled right ankle after Jared Allen stepped on left ankle

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Ray Rice leads NFL with 766 yards from scrimmage

The Sun’s Kevin Cowherd says Derrick Mason brings passion to football field AND radio show

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Harbaugh thinks Oher has ‘tremendous respect’ for Jared Allen

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Le’Ron McClain has reached out to Lorenzo Neal for advice

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Ravens smart to mix in young D-Linemen Brandon McKinney, Dwan Edwards

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Webb getting ‘comfortable’ in kick return, nickel back roles

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says contracts restructured for Kelly Gregg, Jarret Johnson

NFL.com’s Pat Kirwan says Harbaugh doesn’t necessarily think Ravens have become throwing team

NBC Sports’ Mike Florio says Flacco thinks ankle ‘not a big deal’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Flacco competing with Roethlisberger, Carson Palmer to make Pro Bowl behind Tom Brady, Peyton Manning

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Foxworth amongst biggest ‘underachievers’ in AFC North

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Nancy Johnston thinks school should stick with “Fear The Turtle”

The Diamondback’s Aaron Kraut says Debbie Yow surprised by John Turner’s comments

The Diamondback’s Greg Schimmel says Fridge still thinks Terps can be Top 25 annually

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says James Franklin doesn’t think Terps better with Jamarr Robinson under center than Chris Turner

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps may run more ‘Wild Turtle’ with Torrey Smith

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Cavaliers wouldn’t kick towards Torrey Smith last Saturday

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Charles Bankins thinks Nick Ferrara will benefit from having Travis Baltz back

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Turner just ‘misunderstood’ Ralph’s comments about Robinson, Danny O’Brien

Washington Examiner’s Kevin Dunleavy says Pinegar went from walk-on hopeful to O-Line commodity in short time period

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Devils might put a ton of points up Saturday in Durham

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich thinks Terps will win ‘1 or 2’ more games

Terrapin Times’ Mike Ashley says Adrian Moten lifted spirits in practice Monday by crashing offensive huddle (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Mike Ashley says Turner admitted to feeling ‘insecure’ after loss to Cavs (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Ben Pooler stepping up for Terps (must subscribe)

Inside MD Sports’ Seth Hoffman says Duke’s Thaddeus Lewis will provide Terps with another ‘test’ defensively

Turtle Sports Report’s Matt Owings says Porzel rare highlight in Maryland’s loss to Virginia

Turtle Sports Report’s Scott Kornberg checks in with ’11 prospect Ron Buchanan-Vernon Davis’ cousin (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Scott Kornberg says ’11 prospect Sheldon Royster interested in Terps (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Gary Williams feels Lindy’s ranking ‘vindication’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Jack Heise to be honored by team daily in practice

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps to participate in next year’s Coaches vs. Cancer Classic

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Gary wants to fly to away games besides UVa

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Gbinije amongst best of ’11 prospects (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Midshipmen to celebrate Halloween against Temple next Saturday at Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Ricky Dobbs could still play Saturday against WFU

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Niumatalolo to make decision on Ricky Dobbs today

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Mids 12th in NCAA on 3rd down

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Mids have lost 3 straight Homecoming games-all to BCS opponents

Winston-Salem Journal’s Dan Collins says Josh Bush succeeding at safety for Demon Deacons

Go Mids’ David Ausiello says Ivin Jasper thinks Kriss Proctor similar to Kaheaku-Enhada

Go Mids’ Chris Rohe breaks down individual Navy-Wake Forest matchups (must subscribe)

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Tigers to go ‘Green’ next Saturday against Richmond

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says Bears RB Devan James thinks George Howard playing like ‘monster’

MCDANIEL FOOTBALL:

Carroll County Times’ Josh Land says Terror still ‘adjusting’ to new DC Mike Dailey

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Alden Gonzalez says Josh Bell, Brandon Snyder making strong case for Birds’ open corner infield positions in Arizona Fall League

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck says scout Deron Rombach left organization to join Braves

The Sun says Cal Ripken to attend Brooks Robinson tribute

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Snyder homered twice, drove in 7 for Phoenix Desert Dogs in win

Examiner Jay Trucker says Bell’s success in AFL, Sherrill’s struggles in NLCS making trade look pretty good for O’s

HORSE RACING:

Thoroughbred Times’ Jeff Lowe says Saturday’s De Francis Dash at Laurel Park ‘2nd chance’ for Vineyard Haven

The Sun says Fleet Valid 2nd choice for De Francis Dash behind Vineyard Haven

SWIMMING:

Washington Post’s Amy Shipley says Michael Phelps endorses PureSport even amidst questions about supplements

BALTIMORE MARINERS:

The Official Site says AIFA team named front office posts

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-No reason to be concerned about Joe Flacco’s ankle. Which is kinda difficult to say because he has the most important ankles in the entire city of Baltimore.

Here’s an update on Terps in the NFL through Week 6…..

-Browns LB Eric Barton has tallied 49 tackles (31 solo, 1 TFL) and 2 pass defenses
-49ers TE Vernon Davis has 22 catches for 262 yards and 3 TD’s
-Vikings TE Jeff Dugan has 2 catches for 26 yards and 2 rushes for 7 yards
-Eagles LB Moise Fokou has 2 tackles (2 solo)
-Ravens CB Domonique Foxworth has 13 tackles (1 TFL), 1 INT (13 return yards) and 6 pass defenses
-Dolphins TE Joey Haynos has 2 catches for 38 yards
-Vikings LB E.J. Henderson has 47 tackles (36 solo, 3 TFL)
-Raiders WR Darrius Heyward-Bey has 2 catches for 36 yards and 2 rushes for 19 yards
-49ers QB Shaun Hill is 81/144 for 898 yards, 5 TD’s and 2 INT’s
-Browns LB D’Qwell Jackson has 59 tackles (46 solo, 2 TFL), forced 1 fumble, and has 2 pass defenses
-Jets DT Kris Jenkins has 13 tackles (11 solo, 4 TFL)-but will miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL
-Broncos RB LaMont Jordan has rushed 20 times for 59 yards
-Chargers LB Shawne Merriman has 13 tackles (6 solo)
-Jaguars P Adam Podlesh has punted 27 times for 1,103 yards (40.9 yard average), inside 20 8 times
-Dolphins DT Randy Starks has 12 tackles (11 solo, 1 TFL)
-Vikings S Madieu Williams has 26 tackles (24 solo, 1 TFL) and defended 1 pass
-Seahawks CB Josh Wilson has 16 tackles (15 solo), 1 sack and defended 4 passes
-Redskins CB Kevin Barnes, Raiders LS Jon Condo, Ravens OT Jared Gaither, Vikings LB Erin Henderson, Redskins OT Stephon Heyer, Buccaneers DT Dre Moore, and Redskins OL Edwin Williams have not tallied statistics or play positions that don’t tally statistics

Also….
-Former Morgan State TE Visanthe Shiancoe has 17 catches for 164 yards and 5 TD’s for the Vikings
-Former Morgan State RB Chad Simpson has rushed 3 times for 9 yards for the Colts

Talk to you tomorrow.

-G

Intern Super Jack is out today (swine flu, I believe)-so I’ll handle the Tuesday Top 7 within Crabs and Beer. Like Bob Haynie always says, we “improvise and adapt” at WNST.

Here’s MY Tuesday Top 7 for the Ravens’ 33-31 loss to Minnesota…..

7-Lardarius Webb
6-Michael Oher
5-Mark Clayton
4-Ray Lewis
3-Derrick Mason
2-Joe Flacco
1-Ray Rice

And Drew’s Top 7….

7-Marshal Yanda
6-Michael Oher
5-Trevor Pryce
4-Derrick Mason
3-Ray Lewis
2-Ray Rice
1-Joe Flacco

Now our season totals, starting with mine…..

19t-Frank Walker (1 point)
19t-Kelly Gregg (1 point)
19t-Brendon Ayanbadejo (1 point)
19t-Lardarius Webb (1 point)
19t-Sam Koch (1 point)
17t-Matt Birk (2 points)
17t-Kelley Washington (2 points)
15t-Trevor Pryce (3 points)
15t-Domonique Foxworth (3 points)
13t-Chris Chester (4 points)
13t-Haloti Ngata (4 points)
10t-Terrell Suggs (6 points)
10t-Jared Gaither (6 points)
10t-Mark Clayton (6 points)
9-Ed Reed (7 points)
8-Todd Heap (9 points)
7-Ray Lewis (11 points)
6-Willis McGahee (12 points)
5-Derrick Mason (14 points)
4-Jarret Johnson (16 points)
3-Michael Oher (19 points)
2-Joe Flacco (21 points)
1-Ray Rice (22 points)

And Drew’s season totals……

18t-Marshal Yanda (1 point)
18t-Frank Walker (1 point)
18t-Sam Koch (1 point)
15t-Dawan Landry (2 points)
15t-Kelley Washington (2 points)
15t-Matt Birk (2 points)
10t-Chris Chester (4 points)
10t-Todd Heap (4 points)
10t-Domonique Foxworth (4 points)
10t-Mark Clayton (4 points)
10t-Jared Gaither (4 points)
8t-Michael Oher (6 points)
8t-Terrell Suggs (6 points)
6t-Willis McGahee (11 points)
6t-Jarret Johnson (11 points)
5-Derrick Mason (12 points)
4-Ed Reed (13 points)
3-Ray Lewis (20 points)
2-Ray Rice (27 points)
1-Joe Flacco (31 points)

Let’s see what everyone else has to say…..

Best of Monday’s WNST Blogs:

Drew Forrester says Ravens staffer told him trades ‘unlikely’ before today’s 4pm NFL trade deadline

Glenn Clark says Harbaugh thinks Ravens ‘need’ to play Lardarius Webb more at CB

Chris Bonetti says today final day to sign up for WNST’s trip to Lambeau Field

Rex Snider says Harbaugh doing best Belichick impression

Bob Haynie says bye week adjustments won’t involve firing Mattison OR cutting Hauschka

Keith Melchior says not even Stover automatic from 44 yards

Glenn Clark says Shogun Fights best event of week

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh ‘not very optimistic’ Samari Rolle will return

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh thought Oher ‘acquitted himself well’

The Official Site says Flacco told media his ankle ‘great’

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbs confirmed Webb ‘officially’ kick returner

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh standing by Hauschka

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Greg Mattison’s defense no longer ‘strikes fear’ in opponents

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Harbaugh ‘expects’ Gaither to play against Broncos

The Sun’s Mike Preston thinks Ravens should consider using ‘fresh legs’ of Antwan Barnes, Paul Kruger, Jameel McClain in pass rush

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Harbaugh admitted Katula’s snap ‘not perfect’ on missed FG

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Harbaugh has history with T.O. from Philadelphia

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Jared Gaither was ‘close’ to being able to go Sunday against Vikings

The Sun’s Mike Preston thinks Ravens have bigger need at CB than WR

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Ravens corners ‘can’t cover OR tackle’

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ozzie Newsome wouldn’t rule out chances of making trade

The Sun cleans up after me

The AP’s Lucas L. Johnson II says Kazemi texted McNair looking for money before murder

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says NFL Network’s Deion Sanders says Ravens don’t have ‘playoff-caliber defense’

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Harbaugh spoke kindly about Terrell Owens, but doesn’t think anything ‘happening’ on that front

The AP says Harbaugh believes ‘big plays the problem’

The AP’s David Ginsburg says Ravens don’t want to ‘mess around’ with Rolle’s neck

The Tennessean’s Kate Howard says McNair had transferred money to Kazemi’s account-explaining why Armen Keteyian found $2,500 in her bank account

Sporting News’ Clifton Brown has Ravens 12th in power rankings

Sporting News’ Albert Breer says Ravens should go after Dwayne Bowe

NBC Sports’ Mike Florio says Harbaugh’s T.O. comments ‘flirted with tampering’

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco thinks Ravens may be missing Stover

Pro Football Weekly wonders if Ravens interested in Ted Ginn Jr.

ESPN.com’s James Walker doesn’t see how Ravens would be interested in T.O.

ESPN.com’s James Walker not sure if Dwayne Bowe rumors have any ‘traction’

ESPN.com’s James Walker says all 3 of Ravens’ losses have come to first-place teams

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s trip to Duke

The Official Site offers complete Terps-Devils release (pdf)

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Chris Turner, Terps must find ‘new inspiration’ this season

Examiner Matthew Bouchard says Danny O’Brien looking like he’ll be starter in ‘10

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Travis Ivey thinks Terps might have to score defensively due to offensive struggles

The Diamondback has Terps 12th in power rankings

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terps will be underdogs rest of season

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Blue Devils favored for just 9th time in last 118 games against ACC opponents

Terrapin Times’ Mark Clem says Rutgers, Boston College also after Connor Wujciak (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says prospect Ashton Pankey to visit College Park Friday (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Jordan Williams ‘should have’ chance to seize starting center position for Terps (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS LACROSSE:

Inside Lacrosse says Terps to face Duke, Loyola to face Notre Dame, Hopkins to face Princeton at Face-Off Classic March 6 at M&T Bank Stadium

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site previews Saturday’s Homecoming contest with Wake Forest

The Official Site offers complete Midshipmen-Demon Deacons release (pdf)

The Official Site’s Bob Socci says LB Nechak not typical for kid from Malibu

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Niumatalolo going with Vince Murray as starting fullback

Go Mids honors Vince Murray, Tyler Simmons, Michael Walsh for win over SMU

Go Mids’ David Ausiello grades Mids defensively through first half of season (must subscribe)

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

Northeastern Official Site previews Saturday’s visit from Towson

Northeastern Official Site offers complete Tigers-Huskies release (pdf)

Carroll County Times’ Patrick Stoetzer says Mark Orlando honored by Tigers by entering school’s Hall of Fame

MORGAN FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says punter Nicholas Adams honored by MEAC

ORIOLES:

The Official Site’s Robert Emrich says Josh Bell ripping cover off ball in Arizona Fall League

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Brandon Snyder hitting over .400 in AFL play

Examiner Jay Trucker hopes Birds sign Branyan or Delgado to improve lineup

BALTIMORE MARINERS:

The Official Site says AIFA team signed former Terps, Redskins OL Scott Burley

HORSE RACING:

Thoroughbred Times’ Mike Curry says Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird worked out in preparation for Breeders’ Cup Classic

BALTIMORE COLTS:

The Sun’s Dan Rodricks remembers Ricig’s Robert Irsay dummy

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-For the record, my question of John Harbaugh at the end of yesterday’s press conference (regarding Greg Mattison) was NOT asked to be an ass-or to put the coach “on the spot.” It was asked because one of the biggest storylines of the last 10 days has been Greg Mattison-with half of the city of Baltimore calling for Mattison’s head. I NEVER want to bring attention to myself during a press conference, I am just there doing a job. I needed a statement on the record from the Head Coach regarding his embattled Defensive Coordinator; and when challenged-I needed to make sure the Head Coach knew I was not going to let him belittle a relevant question. Please stop with your conspiracy “you just hate John Harbaugh” crap. I am a Ravens fan. I care about one thing, and one thing only. I want the Ravens to win. Other than that, I have a job to do as the Ravens analyst here at WNST.net.

Talk to you later today from 1 Winning Drive.

-G

The Maryland Terrapins’ season can be defined with one telling number:

Minus 13.

It’s the Terps’ turnover differential, and it’s the main reason why their record stands at 2-5 after losing to Virginia, 20-9, on Saturday night before a sparse Homecoming crowd at rainy Byrd Stadium.

Four turnovers and two missed field goal attempts spelled defeat for the Terps, falling to the Cavaliers for the third time in a row.

“It’s the same story over and over again,” head coach Ralph Friedgen said. “Until that gets fixed, it’s going to be hard to win football games. The [wet] ball was tough tonight, but Virginia did a better job of managing it.”

Maryland led, 9-6, late in the third quarter before a Chris Turner pass was batted into the air at the line and picked off by defensive end Nate Collins who returned it 32 yards for a Virginia touchdown.

Freshman kicker Nick Ferrara then missed on two fourth-quarter attempts from 37 and 44 yards before Cavaliers fullback Rashawn Jackson scored a two-yard touchdown late in the game to seal the victory.

After surrendering 516 yards of offense to Wake Forest in last week’s 42-32 loss, the Maryland defense turned in a strong performance against Virginia, holding Al Groh’s offense to 201 yards and accumulating five sacks, a season-high.

Middle linebacker Alex Wujciak led the defense with 14 tackles and Adrian Moten had two sacks to spark Don Brown’s unit. Despite the strong defensive effort, the defense forced only one turnover against Virginia’s four takeaways.

“It’s definitely frustrating,” Wujciak said about playing well defensively but still coming up short. “We gave up the touchdown at the end, but that was it.”

Maryland’s running backs struggled to hold onto the ball with the rainy conditions in College Park. Davin Meggett fumbled on the opening drive of the game after the Terps had driven all the way to the Virginia 25, and backup tailback Gary Douglas also fumbled in Virginia territory in the second quarter.

Despite the weather and the Terps’ overall success running the ball (33 rushes for 126 yards), offensive coordinator James Franklin called for Turner to throw 38 passes. The senior quarterback completed less than 50 percent, often throwing high to his receivers. Several dropped passes were also momentum killers for the Maryland offense.

In all, Turner averaged just 4.2 yards per attempt and accumulated just 158 yards while throwing two interceptions.

“I think the weather was a big factor,” Turner said. “The balls were pretty slick.”

Another big factor was the Terps’ inability to get the ball to top playmaker Torrey Smith.

The sophomore—who entered the game leading the nation with 236.7 all-purpose yards per game—was held to just three catches for 34 yards and ran once for no gain. The Cavaliers also kicked away from Smith throughout the game, not allowing the dangerous returner to touch the ball until after the game had been decided in the closing minutes.

Maryland (1-2 in conference play) must now go on the road to play the Duke Blue Devils (3-3, 1-1) who will be coming off their bye week. The Terps need to win four of their final five games to become bowl eligible, a daunting task considering they still must play Virginia Tech, Boston College, and a road game at Florida State.

At this point, the biggest challenge will be to simply stay together as a team.

“I have been on other teams where the season has gone a lot better, and we had to push them to get the effort up,” Friedgen said. “This team hasn’t been that way. It’s still fun to be out on the field with them, and I don’t question their effort one bit. I’m going to keep working, and I hope they will keep working.”

**Check out the box score here and the live blog below.

__________________________________________

7:23 p.m. — A couple of kneel-downs and this one is over.

Maryland falls, 20-9, on Homecoming.

I’ll be back in a bit with post-game reaction.

7:22 p.m. — Turner completes to Cannon for a first down.

However, two plays later, Turner is intercepted by Dom Joseph.

1:15 remaining.

No one left here except the Terps band and the UVA cheering section.

Very disappointing finish to this one.

7:20 p.m. — I don’t even want to describe that. Smith tries to lateral, and the Terps almost turn it over.

Doesn’t really matter at this point though.

7:19 p.m. — Jackson runs into the end zone for a touchdown.

The extra point is good, and Virginia leads, 20-9, with 1:43 remaining.

Another winnable game but too many mistakes.

You have to feel for the defense today. Don Brown’s unit played very well, but the offense simply killed the Terps today.

7:16 p.m. — Maryland WILL go for it from the 2.

His pass is incomplete, and that’s your ballgame.

Virginia takes over at the 2, 1st-and-goal.

7:14 p.m. — Turner misses a wide-open Cannon on first down, as the Virginia defender was giving plenty of cushion.

On second down, working out of the gun, Turner tries to throw deep to Smith on the far sideline. It’s incomplete.

Facing a 3rd-and-10, the Virginia fans are being vocal, and Turner is sacked by Nate Collins, the same man who picked him off for the touchdown. It’s a loss of seven yards, and Maryland will punt.

Virginia will call a timeout as there was confusion on the field as to what the Terps would do with 1:54 remaining.

It’s 4th-and-17.

7:12 p.m. — Howell’s punt is nearly blocked and is fielded by Logan. He goes out of bounds at the 9-yard line.

Maryland will have to go 91 yards in 2:52 to win this one.

No problem, right?

7:10 p.m. — On 3rd-and-4, Jackson runs left and breaks free, going all the way for a 47-yard touchdown, BUT there’s a flag on the play.

Holding on Virginia will bring the Terps back from the dead (for now, at least).

The penalty makes it 3rd-and-6.

Jackson runs right and is well short of the first down. Maryland takes a timeout with 2:59 remaining.

It will be 4th-and-4 for the Cavaliers at the Maryland 47.

7:07 p.m. — On first down, Jackson runs again for a gain of four. The Virginia fullback continues to creep toward the century mark.

On 2nd-and-6, he gets it again and gains two before Wujciak brings him down.

Maryland will take a timeout with 3:18 remaining in the game.

Wujciak has 14 tackles today.

7:05 p.m. — Virginia takes over at its 33, as Jackson carries for six yards.

As great as the defense has been today, forcing a turnover would be huge here.

Jackson carries again for 15 yards, giving the Cavs a first down.

Timeout on the field as Terps defensive back Richard Taylor is down on the field.

7:01 p.m. — On 2nd-and-19, Turner cannot connect with Matt Furstenburg on the far sideline.

Turner then throws a pass to Kerry Boykins that is DROPPED. It would’ve been a first down.

Well, this drive fell apart after the botched snap on first down.

Ferrara’s 44-yard attempt is well short.

This is painful to watch.

6:59 p.m. — Turner runs right on first down but only gains a yard.

He then finds an open Smith for 17 yards, and the Terps find themselves in the red zone.

Virginia’s defense looks tired, and the Maryland offensive line is doing a nice job giving Turner time.

On first down, it’s a bad snap, and Turner must fall on it. A loss of nine.

6:57 p.m. — After a one-yard Porzel run, Turner finds Torrey Smith for a 17-yard pickup and a first down.

On first down from the Maryland 48, Turner throws incomplete, trying to find Porzel.

He then keeps on second down, picking up eight yards.

On third down, Turner works from the gun and finds Jackson out of the backfield for a first down. It’s a gain of eight, and Maryland is down to the Cavaliers’ 36 with eight minutes to play.

6:51 p.m. — Virginia takes over at its own 20, and Jackson takes the carry straight-ahead for seven yards.

Jackson carries again, but he’s bottled up by Pooler and Derek Drummond for a loss of one.

Again, the defense has come to play today, but it needs a big stop here.

On 3rd-and-4, Verica completes to Jackson, but the fullback is stopped by Pooler short of the marker. It’s a gain of one and Virginia must punt.

The punt is a low liner and is downed at the Maryland 29-yard line.

6:47 p.m. — Virginia goes offsides, and the play is blown dead, giving the Terps five yards and making it 1st-and-5 at the Cavaliers’ 21.

Porzel’s back in the game, but the freshman back only picks up a yard.

Turner completes to Smith, but the speedster cannot break free. No gain on the play.

On 3rd-and-4, Turner tries to throw the fade to Williams on the far side of the field, but it’s incomplete. Fans wanted a flag, but no call from the official.

Ferrara’s 37-yard attempt is no good.

Wide right.

6:43 p.m. — Turner carries again on first down, picking up three yards.

He then throws incomplete to LaQuan Williams, setting up a 3rd-and-7 for the Terps at the Virginia 35-yard line. Huge play here with 13:57 remaining in the fourth.

Maryland comes out in a five-wide, and Turner finds Williams on the slant for nine yards and a first down!

6:41 p.m. — On 2nd-and-8, Turner fakes the hand-off and tries to throw deep to Smith, but the safety help comes at the perfect time and the pass falls incomplete.

Now 3rd-and-8, Turner works from the gun and runs left for a first down. That play was set up very nicely despite me not being a fan of the senior quarterback running the ball.

6:37 p.m. — Porzel with a first-down run and then carries for a gain of two yards.

We’ve reached the end of the third quarter with Virginia leading, 13-9.

6:36 p.m. — Maryland takes over at its own 35 after the kickoff. Let’s see how the offense responds.

Porzel gets the carry and runs right for five yards. Let’s see if the true frosh can spark the offense.

6:30 p.m. — Virginia continues to kick it away from Smith, and it’s a brilliant move.

After the short kick taken to the 38, Turner throws incomplete to Boykins on the far sideline.

On second down, Turner works from the gun, the pass is deflected at the line and intercepted by defensive end Nate Collins. He returns it 32 yards for the Virginia touchdown.

How about running the ball when it’s been raining all day?

I can’t believe what I just witnessed.

Virginia now leads, 13-9.

6:29 p.m. — Sewell cannot put any weight on his right leg as he’s helped off the field. Big spot for Verica, the Cavaliers’ backup.

On 1st-and-10, he gives to Jackson off left tackle for four yards before Moten makes the tackle.

Verica works from the shotgun on second down and throws incomplete to Torchia inside the 5, making it 3rd-and-6 at the Maryland 15.

Verica takes the shotgun snap and throws incomplete, as it appeared he was trying to throw to Vic Hall. They weren’t on the same page on that one.

Randolph’s 32-yard field goal attempt is good, and it’s a 9-6 ballgame.

The drive covers 12 plays, 57 yards, and 4:00 of play.

6:25 p.m. — Jackson carries right up the middle for eight yards before Wujciak makes the stop. Virginia offense finally showing some life late in the third quarter.

On 2nd-and-2, Sewell carries for two yards and another first down, and he’s down on the field. We’ll have a timeout on the field.

Marc Verica is the backup quarterback for Virginia.

6:24 p.m. — After the fluke catch, Jackson carries for a gain of seven before being brought down by Hartsfield.

On 2nd-and-3 from the Maryland 34, the pass is dropped by tight end Colter Phillips, setting up a big third down for Virginia.

Sewell finds an open Jared Green over the middle for a first down at the Terps’ 29-yard line.

6:21 p.m. — Virginia takes the kickoff and will start at its own 29.

Sewell is almost sacked by Isaiah Ross, but the quarterback breaks free for a gain of two yards. Maryland is getting after the quarterback big-time today.

Sewell’s pass intended for Jared Green is incomplete on second down.

On third down, Sewell throws deep, the ball is deflected, and SOMEHOW caught by Burd. It’s a gain of 28 yards to the . He appeared to catch the ball with his legs while lying on the ground after it was deflected by Antwine Perez.

The play will be reviewed as it was difficult to see if Burd’s body was completely in-bounds. The call stands as called on the field. Huge break on a lucky catch for Virginia.

6:14 p.m. — On second down, Turner connects with Galt over the middle for 13 yards and another Maryland first down. The Terps are now inside the red zone.

Turner fakes to Meggett and keeps it. He picks up one yard. Not sure why the Terps insist on running Turner so much.

On 2nd-and-9, Turner is nearly sacked and throws incomplete, setting up a key third-down situation.

Turner throws a pass (actually a lateral) to Williams, but Tyler misses the key block and it’s only a one-yard gain.

Ferrara’s 29-yard attempt is good, and Maryland leads Virginia, 9-3.

The drive covers 8 plays, 53 yards, and lasts 3:18. It’s Ferrara’s third field goal of the day. He is 11 of 14 for the year.

6:10 p.m. — Maryland begins its next drive at 35 with Turner throwing the hitch to Williams on the far side. The junior picks up 10 yards and a first down.

Turner throws down the field to a wide-open Tyler in the middle of the field. It’s a gain of 19 yards and another Terps’ first down.

Douglas then gets the carry and FUMBLES.

Seriously?

The Terps fall on the loose ball. Paul Pinegar recovers the football.

6:07 p.m. — On first down, Sewell throws the hitch to Hall, but Skinner and Pooler are there immediately. It’s a loss of three yards on the play.

Sewell fakes the handoff and is SMASHED by Moten coming from the blind side. It’s a loss of eight, and the Cavs are moving in the wrong direction.

On 3rd-and-22, Virginia tries to run the screen, but the pass is incomplete.

The Maryland defense is playing extremely well. Five sacks on the day is a season high.

6:03 p.m. — Maryland starts its first drive of the second half, and Turner tries to run a play quickly with Virginia’s defense still coming on the field.

Instead, the Terps are flagged for a false start.

On 1st-and-15 from the 25, Turner hands to Meggett who picks up seven yards. I’d like to know what Friedgen and Franklin told the running backs at halftime.

Turner completes a five-yard pass to Tyler who is flattened on the play.

On 3rd-and-3, Meggett finds a little bit of room but is short of the first down.

Ferrara’s punt is fielded by Minnifield inside the 30 who changes direction and takes off toward the near side of the field. After all of the east-west running, he gains six yards on the return.

5:58 p.m. — No word on today’s attendance, but it’s very apparent the rain kept many fans away this afternoon.

If talking in terms of people actually in the stands, it cannot be more than 23-24,000 fans here.

5:57 p.m. — Virginia gets the ball to start the second half and returns the kick to its own 26.

Jackson carries for a gain of five yards on first down before Hartsfield makes the tackle.

On second down, Sewell gives again to Jackson who picks up four yards before Wujciak brings him down. It sets up a third down with only a yard to go to move the chains.

Working from the gun again, Sewell keeps it but is CRUNCHED by Wujciak for a loss of one on the play.

The Mike backer has been everywhere this afternoon.

Logan calls for a fair catch at his own 30-yard line.

5:53 p.m. — We’re a few minutes away from the start of the second half. Just a few stats to pass along to you.

Virginia’s pass defense has been as good as advertised. Turner is only 6 of 14 for 49 yards. Torrey Smith does not have a catch and has only one carry for no gain.

James Franklin has to find a way to get the ball in Smith’s hands.

The Terps defense has played well, holding the Cavaliers to 105 yards on 35 plays. Virginia accumulated 12 yards in the second quarter. The Maryland defense has sacked Jameel Sewell four times.

Very impressive.

Of course, the biggest difference in the game has been three Maryland fumbles, two of them lost. The Terps’ opening drive—and most impressive of the game—was ruined by a Davin Meggett fumble at the Virginia 25.

5:34 p.m. — We’ve reached the end of the first half.

Maryland leads the Cavaliers, 6-3.

5:32 p.m. — With 45 seconds to go, Friedgen is satisfied to go into the half with a 6-3 lead as Turner kneels down with the ball.

However, defensive end Matt Conrath is down on the field for the Cavaliers. I’m not sure I’ve ever seen anyone injured on a kneel-down play, though Turner took a few extra seconds before going to a knee.

Tough break for the Cavaliers’ starting defensive end as he’s being helped off the field with an apparent leg injury.

5:30 p.m. — Minnifield returns the kickoff 49 yards all the way to the Maryland 40-yard line. That’s exactly what you cannot do there.

Sewell hands off to Jackson for a gain of five yards. Just over a minute remaining in the half.

Hall then nearly brings in a diving catch inside the 10, but it’s incomplete.

On third down, Sewell cannot find an open receiver and throws high to Hall after scrambling to the left.

The Cavs punt the ball (Convervative, anyone?), and it rolls dead at the 15-yard line.

Virginia only has one first down since kicking its only field goal.

5:24 p.m. — 2:06 remaining in the first half, and Maryland is threatening inside the red zone.

On 3rd-and-5 from the 16, Turner rolls out and throws quickly to Cannon, but it’s short of the first down. It’s 4th-and-2.

Poor execution there, as Cannon needs to get to the first-down marker.

Ferrara hits the 30-yard field goal, and Maryland takes the lead, 6-3, with 1:39 remaining in the half.

The drive covers 8 plays, 27 yards, and 3:09.

5:22 p.m. — The referee Brad Allen confirms it as a catch, giving the Terps a first down at the Virginia 28.

Meggett carries for a gain of two. He appeared to miss the hole there, as he could have cut left for more yardage.

Turner throws incomplete, intended for Cannon, but there is a flag on the play. Virginia is called for pass interference, giving the Terps another first down.

The Terps have 1st-and-10 at the Virginia 21, and Turner finds Boykins on the far sideline for a gain of five. Maryland really needs to cash in here.

On second down, Meggett gets the carry and finds no running room. No gain, setting up 3rd-and-5.

Virginia will take a timeout.

5:18 p.m. — Caleb Porzel has checked into the game and carries for two yards on second down.

On 3rd-and-8, Turner SOMEHOW finds Cannon in heavy coverage for a first down.

Chris Cook of Virginia had blanket coverage.

But hold on, we’ll have another review.

5:17 p.m. — It’s ruled an incomplete pass. A MAJOR BREAK for the Terps.

Regardless, the lack of ball control is just appalling.

5:16 p.m. — This game is just getting crazy. Turner completes one to Boykins who then FUMBLES. Virginia has it.

They’ll review it, and it looks as though Boykins may not have had possession of the ball.

It would be the Terps’ fourth fumble.

5:14 p.m. — Rashawn Jackson carries on first down for Virginia and loses a yard on the play.

On second down, Sewell tries to find Hall down the field, but it’s incomplete. The receiver was open on the play.

Facing third down, Sewell works from the gun and throws the screen to Jackson on the far side, a perfect call to counter the Maryland blitz on the play. It’s enough for a first down on 3rd-and-12.

But hold on, we have a flag.

Unnecessary roughness is called on Kris Burd, a crucial penalty for the Cavs. It makes it 3rd-and-12 instead of a fresh set of downs.

Sewell runs the same screen to Jackson, but the Terps are ready for it this time. It’s well short of a first down, and the Cavaliers have to punt.

The Maryland defense gets a big break with the Virginia penalty on third down.

WOW!

Virginia appears to try a fake punt, but Howell tries to punt when he rolls out and it’s completely shanked.

It’s Maryland’s ball at the Virginia 40.

5:09 p.m. — Facing 3rd-and-17, Turner finds Jackson for a gain of 15 yards, short of a first down.

Ronnie Tyler was also open on the play, and it would have been a first down if Turner finds him.

Maryland goes for it on fourth down, and the pass is batted down at the line. Virginia takes over at its own 40.

5:07 p.m. — On first down, Meggett carries for a gain of three, but at least he holds onto the ball.

Turner, working from the gun, hands to Meggett who then pitches to Smith running in the opposite direction. Virginia is not fooled by the razzle-dazzle.

Maryland is called for an illegal block in the back, moving the Terps back 10 yards.

On 2nd-and-17, Turner drops back and throws incomplete to Galt.

5:04 p.m. — Meggett is back in the lineup, and Turner finds Kerry Boykins wide open who then FUMBLES.

Thankfully, the ball is recovered Smith, and the Terps will have a first down.

5:03 p.m. — The Maryland defense has four sacks in the first half, matching its season-high against Middle Tennessee State.

For all of the criticism the unit has taken this year (and most of it deserved), Don Brown’s defense has come to play in the first half.

5:01 p.m. — Deege Galt earns the sack on first down, a loss of two yards.

The Terps then bat down Sewell’s pass at the line of scrimmage on the next play, setting up 3rd-and-12.

Ben Pooler comes free on the blitz and brings Sewell down with an “excuse me” hit. It’s a loss of nine yards, and the Cavs will punt.

Nice job by the Maryland defense responding after another fumble.

Virginia’s punt formation is spread out (very odd), and the punt is downed at the Maryland 36.

4:59 p.m. — The Terrapin offense must get it going, as 36 of its 54 total yards came on the opening drive that ended with a Davin Meggett fumble in Virginia territory.

On first down, Douglas gets the carry and finds some nice running room, picking up 12 yards and moving the chains.

From their own 45, the Terps give it to Douglas again for 12 yards, but he fumbles.

(Curse word!)

Virginia linebacker Darren Childs recovers.

4:54 p.m. — Virginia starts the drive at its own 23 as Mack carries for a one-yard loss. Wujciak with the stop AGAIN.

Sewell completes a second-down pass to Mack for a gain of 10 yards, setting up third and short for the Cavaliers.

Sewell keeps it on third down, and McCollough and Wujciak bring him down right away. It will be close, and we’ll have a measurement.

It’s short, and Al Groh calls for the punt team. Nice series for the Terps there.

Logan is back deep and calls for a fair catch at the Maryland 33.

4:50 p.m. — You have to give it to Nick Ferrara. The true freshman has done an admirable job as both the placekicker and punter in Travis Baltz’s absence.

Not too bad.

4:46 p.m. — On 2nd-and-7, Meggett tries to gain ground on the right side, but he’s wrapped up by Nate Collins for a one-yard loss.

On third down, Turner works from the gun with five-wide and throws deep to Smith, but it’s incomplete. The ball was slightly under-thrown or Smith may have been able to bring it in.

Ferrara will try a 48-yard field goal, and it is good!

Maryland and Virginia are tied, 3-3, with 13:14 remaining in the second quarter.

The drive covers 4 plays, 2 yards, and 1:35.

4:45 p.m. — McCollough nearly brings Sewell down for a sack on first down before the Cavs quarterback throws it away.

On second down, Sewell is flattened by Moten and fumbles! Ivey recovers the fumble, and it’s Maryland’s football at the 33-yard line!

4:43 p.m. — Anyone else find the irony in Robert Randolph, the same namesake of one of Glenn Clark’s favorite musicians, giving the Cavaliers the only score of the game so far.

4:41 p.m. — Torrey Mack gets the carry on first down and runs left for a gain of nine yards. McCollough finally brings him down.

Virginia going no-huddle as Sewell hands to Mack again for no gain.

On 3rd-and-1, Jackson runs to the right side and the Cavalier seal the corner for a gain of six yards and a first down.

We’ve reached the end of the first quarter with Virginia leading the Terps, 3-0.

4:39 p.m. — Virginia has clearly received the memo on Torrey Smith and kicks it short again. Cory Jackson fields the kick and Maryland begins on its own 40.

Douglas is still in the game and whiffed on his man, forcing Turner to throw it away on first down.

On second, Turner sprints out to the right and nearly throws an interception while trying to get the ball to Smith.

With a 3rd-and-10 situation, Turner lines up in the gun and throws incomplete to Adrian Cannon.

The Terps can do nothing with the good field position as Ferrara punts to the 15-yard line. Minnifield returns the punt to the Cavaliers’ 26. Virginia takes over.

4:33 p.m. — On 2nd-and-goal from the Maryland 6, Sewell runs into his own lineman and is sacked by Wujciak for a loss of eight yards on the play. Huge defensive play for the junior linebacker.

On third down, Sewell keeps it and is bottled up IMMEDIATELY by Zachariah Kerr and Travis Ivey for a loss of one.

Robert Randolph will attempt the 32-yard field goal and it’s good.

Virginia leads, 3-0, with 1:47 remaining in the first.

The drive covered 14 plays, 55 yards, and 6:24.

4:31 p.m. — The review confirms the call on the field, and it will be 1st-and-goal for Virginia.

With the ball at the 1, Sewell keeps it up the middle but is short of the goal line. Wujciak and Hartsfield bring down the Virginia quarterback.

Virginia is then flagged for a false start, moving them back to the 6.

4:29 p.m. — Sewell then finds Hall over the middle for a big gain of 29 yards. The pass almost appeared to be tipped by Wujciak over the middle but didn’t see a replay in the press box.

On first down from the Maryland 11, Mack carries for only a yard. The Terps need to hold the Cavs to three here.

Virginia using a lot of spread formations, something the Terps should be used to at this point.

Sewell finds Hall again for eight yards, as Adrian Moten and Kenny Tate bring him down at the 2-yard line.

On 3rd-and-1, Sewell runs out of the gun but is stood up by Hartsfield and Wujciak for no gain. Virginia will go for it.

Sewell keeps it up the middle and coughs up the ball, but the officials say he was down. It’s enough for the first down, but hold on, they will review it.

4:25 p.m. — On first down, Sewell throws incomplete, intended for Joe Torchia.

Working from the shotgun, Sewell delivers a beautiful throw to Hall on the near sideline for a Virginia first down and 16 yards. It’s the Cavs’ first first down.

Sewell then tries to connect to Kris Burd on the deep ball, but the receiver was out of bounds.

On second down, Sewell finds Joe Torchia who is stopped immediately by Alex Wujciak. It’s a gain of six yards.

On 3rd-and-4, Virginia is spread out as Sewell finds Burd for a seven yard gain and another first.

4:20 p.m. — Turner works out of the shotgun and hands to Douglas for only a one-yard gain.

On 2nd-and-9, Turner throws incomplete, intended for Tommy Galt. However, Virginia is flagged for offsides, a nice break for Maryland.

Turner throws the quick hitch to LaQuan Williams, but there’s no gain on the play.

On 3rd-and-4, the Terps use five-wide and Turner throws high to Smith. Maryland must punt.

Nick Ferrara, again filling in for the injured Travis Baltz punts to Chase Minnifield at the Cavaliers’ 30. Terrell Skinner wraps him up immediately at the 31.

4:18 p.m. — Gary Douglas has checked in at tailback for the Terps and immediately carries the ball for four yards.

It will be interesting to see if Friedgen gives Meggett the Da’Rel Scott treatment for putting the ball on the ground.

On second down, Douglas carries up the middle and finds some nice running room. It’s a gain of 11 yards and a Maryland first down.

4:14 p.m. — Let’s see if the Maryland offense can rebound from the costly turnover. Meggett was moving the ball very well on the ground before the fumble.

I suppose we’ll see Davin walking around campus holding the football this week like Omar Epps in The Program.

4:12 p.m. — On second down, Sewell completes to Vic Hall for a gain of three yards. However, the Cavalier are flagged for holding, moving them back 10 yards.

On 2nd-and-14, Sewell hands to fullback Rashawn Jackson (he’s a load!) for a three-yard gain.

Sewell works from the shotgun on third down and hits Jackson out of the backfield, but the fullback is a yard short of the first. Virginia must punt.

Jimmy Howell’s punt is fielded by Tony Logan who calls for a fair catch at the Maryland 15.

4:09 p.m. — Much of the same that we’ve seen all year. Meggett carries for a nice 11-yard gain before coughing up the football. Virginia recovers at its own 24.

A promising drive ruined.

4:08 p.m. — Meggett carries to the left for a gain of nine yards, and the Cavaliers are offside. The Terps will obviously decline the penalty.

On 2nd-and-1, Smith lines up at quarterback (Wildcat?) and keeps it for no gain. Virginia was ready for that one.

On third down, Meggett takes the carry off right-guard and picks up five yards and a first down. The ball is now on the Virginia 35-yard line.

4:06 p.m. — Virginia kicks it short to Gary Douglas (and away from Torrey Smith), and the ball is returned to the 40-yard line.

On first down, Maryland comes out with four wide and hands the ball to Meggett right up the middle for a gain of 10 and a first down. Nice start for the ground game.

4:04 p.m. — A really nice tribute to Jack Heise today. Not a moment of silence but a moment of cheering for one of the Terps’ all-time supporters.

Maryland will receive to begin the game.

3:59 p.m. — Wide receiver Kerry Boykins will carry the American flag on the field today, and defense back Jamari McCollough, a native Baltimorean, will carry the Maryland state flag.

3:57 p.m. — One of the few bright spots for the Terps this season as been explosive receiver/kick returner Torrey Smith.

The sophomore needs only 155 all-purpose yards to reach the 3,000 mark for his career. Only eight other Terps have reached the 3,000-yard mark, and only Lamont Jordan (4,960 yards) has reached the 4,000 mark.

3:52 p.m. — Maryland’s honorary captains for today’s game are Tim Cesa and Larry Webster.

Webster, of course, played on the Ravens’ Super Bowl XXXV defense and was a key member of the defensive line rotation.

3:47 p.m. — As I mentioned earlier, the Terps must get the running game going this afternoon. Though Maryland has to abandon the running game early last week after following behind by a huge margin, 30 rushes for 62 yards simply won’t get it done.

Davin Meggett has struggled to find running room, gaining only 155 yards on 50 carries for a 3.1 YPC average.

The Terps will also use RS frosh Gary Douglas and true freshman Caleb Porzel who saw his first collegiate action against the Demon Deacons last week.

I know at least one Terps fan (Rich from Westminster) will agree wholeheartedly on this, but Ralph Friedgen must use the talented Porzel after burning his redshirt. The freshman was very impressive in summer practice and just might be the spark that the running game needs.

Regardless of who receives the carries, the offensive line must do a better job opening running lanes for the Terrapin backs.

3:35 p.m. — University officials have to be disappointed with the weather for today’s Homecoming game. Tickets were still available for today’s game, and the weather will surely keep many spectators away.

We’re less than 30 minutes away from kickoff, and it is VERY empty in Byrd right now.

3:3o p.m. — This will be the 74th meeting between Maryland and Virginia. Maryland leads the all-time series by a 41-30-2 margin. The two schools first met in 1919, and the Terps have played Virginia more than any other school.

3:28 p.m. — Maryland is currently out on the field going through its pregame warmups, and Campbell is dressed and lining up at left tackle. A great sign for the Terps to have the big man back at left tackle.

The Terps are dressed in red jerseys and red pants for Homecoming.

3:25 p.m. — Maryland’s defense will try to rebound from surrendering 516 yards and 42 points against Riley Skinner and Wake Forest last week.

Freshman linebacker Demetrius Hartsfield broke his hand last week but will attempt to play with the broken hand heavily wrapped in a club. Hartsfield has played well recently, earning ACC Freshman of the Week honors against Clemson two weeks ago.

Since taking the reins of the Virginia offense, Jameel Sewell has led the Cavaliers to two consecutive wins. The senior quarterback is very dangerous on the ground, leading the team in rushing attempts (77) and is second in net yards (117).

3:18 p.m. — The Terps hope to avenge last season’s 31-0 blowout in Charlottesville. Al Groh’s Cavaliers have been revitalized after an 0-3 start that included a home loss to FCS school William & Mary and a road loss to Southern Mississippi.

The Cavaliers have won back-to-back games against North Carolina in Chapel Hill and Indiana.

The Terps will likely catch a break against Virginia today as it appears starting running back Mikell Simpson will not play after suffering a neck injury. Simpson has enjoyed success against the Terps in the past, rushing for 200 yards and gaining 165 receiving yards in his career against Maryland.

Torrey Mack would most likely start in Simpson’s place.

The Terps will need to establish the running game this afternoon, both because of the weather and Virginia’s pass defense. The Cavaliers have not allowed more than 190 passing yards in a game all season.

Maryland’s running game has struggled this season, losing starting tailback Da’Rel Scott against Clemson (broken wrist) and having such an inexperience offensive line. It is unclear how much (or if) starting left tackle Bruce Campbell (knee) will play, so if the junior cannot go, it once again leaves center Phil Costa as the only returning starter from last season.

The offensive line has clearly been a concern all season, but its play will be critical to Maryland’s chances this afternoon.

3:00 p.m. — Good afternoon from a very soggy, chilly Byrd Stadium, as the Terps (2-4, 1-1 in the ACC) are set to take on the Virginia Cavaliers (2-3, 1-0) at 4:00 p.m.

It is raining and will be throughout the afternoon with the temperature in the mid- to low-40s. It’s definitely not the ideal forecast for Maryland’s Homecoming, but a win would go a long way for Terps fans’ damp spirits.

Maryland desperately needs a victory after being thoroughly manhandled in Winston-Salem against Wake Forest last Saturday, 42-32. If you were able to view the game (only available on ESPN360), it was very apparent the final score did not reflect how much of a mismatch it truly was.

Today’s game will be televised on ESPNU with Todd Harris and JC Pearson providing the call. Be sure to stay right here as I’ll be blogging throughout the game and providing updates on WNST’s Twitter feed.

If it couldn’t get any worse than the opener against Cal, the Terrapins’ first-half effort in Winston-Salem came close.

Maryland fell behind 35-10 at halftime and couldn’t recover as Wake Forest quarterback Riley Skinner threw for 360 yards and four touchdowns to lead the Demon Deacons to a 42-32 victory.

The Wake Forest offense simply marched up and down the field throughout the half with little resistance. Don Brown’s defense surrendered 516 total yards for the game and did not force a punt until late in the second quarter.

Terps quarterback Chris Turner passed for 307 yards, but much of it came after Maryland was forced to abandon the running game after falling behind early. The senior tossed two scores to Adrian Cannon and another to Torrey Smith.

The loss ends the Terps’ brief stay at the top of the ACC Atlantic Division and brings their record to 2-4.

Next week, the Terps return to College Park for Homecoming Weekend to take on Virginia.

If you’re interested in joining WNST and Terps fanatic Glenn Clark for our bus trip to the game, check out the trips section at the top of the page.

You can check out tonight’s box score here.
_________________________________________________________________
9:46 p.m. — This one really wasn’t as close as the final score indicated, as Wake Forest really lost its intensity after leading by 25 at halftime.

The Terps fall to 2-4 and 1-1 in the ACC while Wake Forest (4-2) improves its conference record to 2-1.

9:39 p.m. — We’re having internet issues again at the Glenn Clark household, but we did get to see Turner’s touchdown pass to Torrey Smith, making it a 42-32 game.

The bad news is there’s only 1:31 remaining in the game.

9:33 p.m. — Turner has carried the ball a ton in this game. Sixteen carries to be exact.

The problem? Only 27 yards.

9:31 p.m. — We’re down to only 3:47 remaining, and the Demon Deacons have eclipsed the 500 yard mark for the first time since 2004.

Skinner throws incomplete to Williams, and Wake will have to punt with 3:20 remaining.

Logan fields the punt and is absolutely crushed by Joe Hall. Might want to call for a fair catch there, Tony.

9:24 p.m. — After the first couple weeks, Terps fans were circling next week’s battle with Virginia as an easy win, but it’s hard not to worry now as Al Groh’s Cavaliers blasted Indiania today, 47-7.

Yes, it was only Indiana, but considering how poorly Virginia was playing over the first couple weeks and how much better they’ve looked of late, nothing is a given.

9:19 p.m. — I apologize for the delay. The ESPN360/internet connection just went out.

And as we’re back, Turner throws an interception into the end zone, the ball picked off by Domonique Tate.

That’ll do it right there.

Under eight minutes to play now, and the Terps still trail by 17.

9:11 p.m. — The Terps will try it, after all. Ferrara then just pooches it inside the 10, and Pendergrass must retrieve and can only return the ball to the 12.

A three-and-out here would give the Terps a prayer at least.

Pendergrass then runs the ball right for a gain of five.

Working out of the shotgun, Skinner hands the ball off and Wujciak bottles up Pendergrass after only a gain of one. Nice defense there.

On 3rd-and-4, the Terps bring the pressure as Skinner finds Adams coming out of the backfield. However,

9:09 p.m. — Ferrara lined up for the onside kick, but the Demon Deacons take a timeout. You would think Friedgen will kick it away now, but we’ll see.

9:07 p.m. — Turner throws to the end zone incomplete, but cornerback Kenny Okoro is flagged for defensive holding, giving the Terps a first down at the Wake 16.

From the shotgun, Turner feels the pressure and keeps for a gain of one. He then finds Cannon who breaks a tackle and gets into the end zone for a Maryland touchdown.

Maryland will go for the two-point conversion to try to make it 42-25. Turner rolls right and then throws back to Meggett, and the back finds his way into the end zone.

11:00 remaining and the Terps trail 42-25.

9:05 p.m. — On 2nd-and-10, Turner throws to Cannon who fights for a first down. Maryland is down to the Wake 32-yard line.

Turner then keeps it to the right and gains six yards.

If you’re looking for another positive, the offense has not turned the ball over tonight.

Does that help?

9:03 p.m. — Just 13 minutes to go in this one. On 3rd-and-8, Turner cannot find anyone but keeps it and picks up the first down.

The senior quarterback then finds Smith on the far sideline for another first down.

The Terps have played better in the second half, but that’s not exactly saying anything, is it?

9:01 p.m. — Carl Russell just got to Skinner for a sack, setting up another 3rd-and-long situation for Wake. The problem is the Deacons have been outstanding on those situations tonight.

On 3rd-and-17, Skinner must throw it away, but here comes a flag. Maryland is called for unsportsmanlike conduct after the play, a 15-yard penalty.

Wake Forest will go for it on 4th-and-2.  Pendergrass is stuffed on the play, and the Terps will take over on downs.

Comeback?

Yeah, didn’t think so.

8:55 p.m. — The highlights of the game…well…the barbecue chicken pizza Glenn and I ordered wasn’t too shabby.  And the cold brews were a plus.

Other than that?

8:53 p.m. — On 3rd-and-17, Skinner rolls out to the right and finds Williams for a first down. This is just depressing.

Thankfully, we’ve reached the end of the third quarter.

Wake Forest 42, Maryland 17

8:51 p.m. — On 2nd-and-10, Smith makes a catch on the near sideline, picking up about five yards.

Turner then works from the shotgun on third down, stares down the receiver Kerry Boykins and throws incomplete.

The Terps will go for it on fourth down, and Russell absolutely destroys Turner after beating left guard Lamar Young.

Terrible.

8:49 p.m. — An excessive celebration call forces Wake to kick off from its own 15, but Smith is only able to return the kick to the 37.

Turner throws the hitch to Smith who picks up seven yards on the playf.

On second down, Douglas gets the ball and runs up the middle for a gain of only a couple, setting up 3rd-and-1. Douglas then picks up the first down with a run up the middle.

8:43 p.m. — Givens is wide open and Skinner finds him for the 27-yard touchdown. Chisholm appeared to be the man who was supposed to be covering him.

What little hope the Terps may have had ended right there.

Wake Forest 42, Maryland 17.

8:42 p.m. — On third down, Adams catches the pass and picks up the first down after Hartsfield blows the tackle. The ball is on the Maryland 28.

Adams runs right on first down for a gain of one. A turnover would be nice here.

8:41 p.m. — A holding call will move Wake Forest back to their own 44. Skinner works from the shotgun and finds Given wide open underneath as the receiver picks up the first down.

On first down, Skinner is nearly sacked by Hartsfield, forcing the quarterback to throw it away. The senior quarterback then throws incomplete, setting up a 3rd-and-10.

8:37 p.m. — Wake takes over at its own 31-yard line. Skinner finds Williams after rolling out to the right, and the receiver picks up the first down.

Givens then gets the ball and picks up eight. The Deacons are on the move, already into Maryland territory.

8:35 p.m. — Douglas then runs to the 4, setting up 2nd-and-3.

Turner will then keep it as he runs right, but he is stopped just short of the first down.

Big play here as Maryland shifts to the shotgun. Turner throws incomplete as the ball is tipped away and nearly picked off.

On fourth down, Turner throws the fade to Adrian Cannon, and it’s a touchdown for the Terps! Ferrara’s extra point will make the score 35-17.

It’s nice to see a little bit of life out of this team.

8:31 p.m. — Turner throws left to Smith to the 18-yard line, setting up 3rd-and-2 for the Terps.

Turner keeps the ball and runs down to the 10, giving Maryland another first down. Pinegar made a nice block after pulling on the play.

8:29 p.m. — It’s nice seeing the Terps get the ball to Gary Douglas, who just took a screen pass and scampered all the way down to the Wake 27-yard line. However, he was shaken up after being brought down.

On first down, Meggett picks up about four yards.

8:26 p.m. — On second down, Adams takes the pitch to the right side, but Wake is flagged for a block below the waist, making it 2nd-and-25.

Skinner throws the ball away on the next play, and now we have a holding call against the Demon Deacons. Wake looking sloppy to begin the second half.

On 3rd-and-33, Wake runs the draw and Wujciak brings down Adams after a minimal gain.That series was more a product of Wake Forest mistakes than Maryland defense.

8:20 p.m. — On 3rd-and-8, Turner’s pass is batted down, and Maryland will have to punt.

Ferrara’s punt goes to the Wake 37, and Riley Skinner and the Deacons will take over for their first possession of the second half.

8:19 p.m. — Maryland will receive to begin the second half. The kick goes into the end zone for a touchback.

The Terps will start the second half at the 20, and let’s see if the Terps can make this one respectable.

On first down, Turner keeps it for five yards. Maryland is going no-huddle, and Turner hits Smith for a first-down completion to the 31.

8:03 p.m. — Wake Forest has 381 total yards—at halftime. The Terps have 74.

The Florida-LSU game is looking VERY tempting right now.

7:57 p.m. — Turner keeps it on third down and picks up the first down.

He then finds Tyler, but a nice open-field tackle will force the Terps to use their last timeout.

On 2nd-and-5, Turner is sacked by John Russell up the middle, beating Phil Costa on the play. So much for that drive.

R.J. Dill is then flagged for a false start. With just a few seconds remaining, Turner throws incomplete as he tries to find Smith downfield.

We’ve reached the end of the first half. Wake Forest leads 35-10.

What does Ralph Friedgen tell his squad at halftime?

7:53 p.m. — Just over a minute remaining in the first half.

On 2nd-and-10, Turner finds Ronnie Tyler over the middle, setting up third down with only a yard to go. The Terps will use a timeout with 55 seconds remaining in the half.

7:51 p.m. — Turner just tried to throw the ball to Meggett, and the back drops it. That’s about right.

On third down, Turner finds Adrian Cannon for the first down.

7:49 p.m. — On 2nd-and-11, Skinner cannot find an open man and is sacked by Hartsfield.

On 3rd-and-12, the secondary covers well, forcing the senior quarterback to run. Skinner only gains one, and WAKE FOREST WILL PUNT.

A moral victory for the Terps, I suppose. Tony Logan finally gets to field a punt and calls for the fair catch.

7:45 p.m. — Pendergrass runs left for another massive gain before Perez saves the touchdown by tripping him up at the Wake 47.

Pendergrass then runs right for another nice gain.

On 2nd-and-1, Pendergrass runs inside, but there’s a flag on the play. Holding on Wake Forest.

7:43 p.m. — Turner is clearly shaken due to the poor protection. He just bounced one to Smith on a short pass.

On third down, Turner throws incomplete to Smith.

Maryland will punt. Anything else good on TV tonight?

7:42 p.m. — All you need to know about this one:

Riley Skinner is 14 of 17 for 243 yards and three touchdowns.

Embarrassing.

7:40 p.m. — Porzel gets the pitch and runs left for only a yard.

On second down, Turner calls a timeout with 4:17 remaining.

Can’t wait til the pizza gets there. This one is tough to watch.

7:38 p.m. — Skinner is 13 for 15 right now.

On 2nd-and-7, Skinner throws a beautiful ball into the end zone, but Williams cannot bring it in. Williams had a step on Anthony Wiseman there.

On a positive note, that’s better coverage than what we’ve seen for most of the night.

On 3rd-and-7, Skinner finds a wide-open Parker running a seam route. Touchdown.

This defense is worse tonight than it was against Cal. Something I didn’t think was possible.

35-10.

7:36 p.m. — Jackson takes the kick and returns it to the Wake 24-yard line.

Skinner works from the gun on first down and is sacked. Good pressure that time from the defense. Ben Pooler is credited for the sack.

On 2nd-and-14, Skinner finds Rinfrette for a nice gain, setting up a manageable 3rd-and-9. Skinner then finds a wide-open Brown for a huge gain. No pressure and Brown has no one within 10 yards of him.

Wake has a first down at the Maryland 23-yard line.

7:31 p.m. — On 2nd-and-11, Turner tries to throw downfield, but Dorty gets him again. The right side of the line is just getting killed.

On 3rd-and-17, Turner works out of the gun and throws underneath to Smith, but Wake wraps him up quickly.

Ferrara will attempt a 50-yard field goal from the right hash. It’s good.Very impressive.

28-10 with 7:27 to go in the first half.

7:28 p.m. — Turner finds Tommy Galt for a big gain and only Maryland’s second first down.

On the next play, Franklin calls a screen to Gary Douglas who picks up nice yardage all the way down to the Wake 30-yard line.

Nice to see the offense has a pulse at least.

7:25 p.m. — Adams runs for another first down all the way down to the Terps’ 31. A team of tackling dummies might be more effective at this point.

Receiver Chris Givens gets the ball but slips for a loss of one.

On the next play, Darin Drakeford comes on the blitz, but Skinner is able to throw the ball away.

On 3rd-and-11, Skinner, working from the gun, finds Givens for a 31-yard touchdown. All day to throw there, and the rout is officially on, Terps fans.

Wake Forest leads, 28-7, with 10:28 remaining in the half.

7:21 p.m. — Wake takes over and Skinner hits Jordan Williams for six yards. Skinner is red hot right now.

On second down, Adams runs right and picks up the first down as the Deacons are into Maryland territory.

Anyone bother to tell the Maryland defense the game started at 6:30?

7:18 p.m. — Cory Jackson gets the first-down carry and only picks up one yard. The offense badly needs a drive here, if only to keep the defense off the field.

On 2nd-and-9, the Terps give it to Smith who runs right for four yards.

Needing five yards on third down, Turner works from the gun and is sacked by defensive end Tristan Dorty. This one is getting very ugly very quickly.

Ferrara punts and Wake Forest calls for a fair catch at its own 43.

7:16 p.m. — Wake Forest already has 11 first downs—in one quarter of play.

This one has the potential to be a long night if things don’t turn around quickly.

Smith with a nice return that will be called back by an illegal block in the back by Emani Lee-Oddai. The penalty moves the Terps back to their own 15.

7:13 p.m. — On 2nd-and-5, Pendergrass is stuffed by Demetrius Hartsfield.

On third down, Skinner has ALL day and finds Williams in the end zone for the touchdown. No pressure whatsoever on that one, so you can’t expect the secondary to cover for that long.

End of the first quarter, Wake 21, Maryland 7.

7:11 p.m. — The 360 feed went out temporarily, and it picks up with Wake Forest at the Maryland 15. The defense just has no answer for the Wake offense in the early going.

A holding penalty will negate a Pendergrass run and move the Demon Deacons back to the Maryland 25.

Skinner hits Parker over the middle and down to the Maryland 10, setting up 2nd-and-6.

7:07 p.m. — On first down, the Terps pressure Skinner, but the senior is able to avoid the sack and throws it away.

On 2nd-and-10 from their own 34, Skinner finds Williams who is brought down by Antwine Perez. They will measure for the first down after Williams grabs his third ball of the game.

7:04 p.m. — Smith gets it again (Why would you kick to him?!) and is leveled at the 23-yard line.

Turner works from the shotgun and will keep it but picks up minimal yardage. Maybe three.

On second down, Caleb Porzel gets the carry and is stopped in his tracks.

On 3rd-and-long, Turner throws underneath to Smith, but the speedy receiver is unable to pick up the first. Three and out.

If the defense doesn’t have a good series here, it might be a long night.

6:59 p.m. — On first down, Pendergrass takes the carry again and gets to the Terps’ 4. Maryland needs to hold Wake to three.

Well, so much for that. Brown runs right and is into the end zone for another Deacons’ touchdown.

Jimmy Newman’s point after is good, and Wake leads 14-7 with 5:20 remaining in the first.

6:57 p.m. — Wujciak stuffs Adams on first down again.

On second down, Skinner throws underneath to Williams. Cam Chisholm was barely able to trip him up.

Brandon Pendergrass then picks up the first down, running the ball to the Maryland 7.

6:55 p.m. — Working from the gun again, Skinner hits Marshall Williams for another first down. Secondary is playing soft as Skinner is throwing quick passes.

Alex Wujciak then stuffs Adams on first down. The linebacker leads the team in tackles with 52 entering the game.

However, Adams breaks free running right and moves all the way down to the Terps’ 20. The Terps have no answer on defense so far.

6:54 p.m. — Skinner throws to tight end Andrew Parker on a quick hitch, and he picks up another first.

Defense needs to buckle down.

6:53 p.m. — Ferrara’s kickoff is short but Devon Brown is not able to take advantage as the Terps’ coverage unit stops him at the 20.

Skinner works from the shotgun and hits Rinfrette in the flat for a gain of 10 and a first down.

6:49 p.m. — Meggett is stopped at the 2 on first down trying to run off the left guard.

Matt Furstenburg then drops one in the end zone. Turner hung it up there a bit, but the tight end still needs to bring that one in.

On third goal, Meggett is stuffed at the one. Maryland will go for it.

Meggett runs left again on fourth down and plows his way into the endzone. Nick Ferrara’s extra point is good, and we’re tied at 7.

Huge answer by the Terps after Smith sets them up with a spectacular return.

6:46 p.m. — Torrey Smith with a HUGE return for the Terps all the way inside the 20-yard line. The Terps begin at the Wake 15 and hand it off to Meggett who runs left through a massive hole.

First-and-goal for the Terps at the 5-yard line.

6:45 p.m. — This is my first experience watching a game on ESPN360. Definitely some awkward silence during the breaks with no commercials.

You would think ESPN would want to maximize profits by including a commercial or two.

6:44 p.m. — The extra point is good, and Wake Forest leads, 7-0, early in the first quarter.

Let’s see how Chris Turner and the Maryland offense responds.

6:43 p.m. — Devon Brown runs to the outside for a nice gain. Maryland cannot stop the stretch plays.

And on second down, Josh Adams runs outside to the right and takes it all the way for a 48-yard score.

Not a good start for Don Brown’s defense.

The officials will review the play to see if Adams stepped out of bounds. The call is confirmed.

6:40 p.m. — Wake Forest returns to their own 33 to begin the game, and we’ll get our first look at Riley Skinner and the Wake offense.

On first down, Josh Adams ran for six yards and was then stuffed on second down by Adrien Moten.

On 3rd-and-2, fullback Mike Rinfrette runs straight ahead for the first down.

6:36 p.m. — Maryland will need a big performance out of Paul Pinegar as he starts in place of left tackle Bruce Campbell. The young offensive line will need to open up holes for Davin Meggett and Gary Douglas. Of course, the Terps are without all-conference back Da’Rel Scott who suffered a broken wrist last week.

6:33 p.m. — Rich in Westminster, I apologize for my delay in getting the live blog up. Enjoy the game, buddy.

6:30 p.m. — I’m live from Glenn Clark’s casa to catch the Maryland-Wake Forest game. I cannot get ESPN360 through my internet service provider at home, so Glenn has graciously opened his door—and offered a cold beverage or two—for tonight’s webcast. Comcast SportsNet will air tonight’s game at 7:30 p.m. Sunday.

The Terps (2-3, 1-0 in the ACC) hope to build on the badly-needed 24-21 victory they earned last week against Clemson. A victory in Winston-Salem would set up the schedule very nicely for the Terps leading up to the bye in three weeks. Maryland’s next two games come against beatable opponents, Virginia and Duke.

Here are your weekend picks:

Ravens 24, Bengals 16

Everything comes down to red zone defense. If the Ravens keep Ochocinco and Benson out of the end zone, they’ll win. If they don’t…..this one could be close.

Wake Forest 30, Maryland 27

I think Maryland is improving; but they have ALWAYS struggled with outside running. If Wake can get the ball outside early, the Terps will be in trouble.

Navy 34, Rice 17

Rice is not any good at all. Navy hasn’t been putting up points the way they have in the past; but they won’t have a problem against the Owls.

Towson 10, Rhode Island 9

It won’t be pretty. But I think Rob Ambrose’s spirit can will his team to another win Saturday.

Morgan State 23, North Carolina A&T 10

The Bears are playing good football. They won’t lose at Hughes Stadium.

Let’s see what everyone else has to say….

Best of Thursday’s WNST Blogs:

Glenn Clark says Le’Ron McClain ‘disappointed’ he hasn’t been on field in big short yardage situations

Rex Snider suggests ideas for 2010 promotions at Camden Yards

Bob Haynie wonders if Flacco or Palmer will have more passing yards Sunday

Thyrl Nelson thinks Flacco, McGahee, Mason Top 10 Fantasy plays vs. Cincy

Rex Snider still would take Terrell Owens with Ravens

Tom Clayton says Ravens need ‘big play’ from Ed Reed

Ed Frankovic says Caps ‘lethargic’ in 4-3 loss to Rangers

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Chris Carr, Lardarius Webb will continue to be involved in return game

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Jarret Johnson, Derrick Mason returned to practice; Jared Gaither, Demetrius Williams remained out

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Reed will be ‘tested’ by Carson Palmer

The Official Site says Rosburg believes Ayanbadejo will return to team to work as ‘assistant coach’

The Official Site says Terrell Suggs knows Ravens ‘can’t stop being aggressive’ even with penalties against New England

The Official Site says Bengals returned 250 tickets for Sunday’s game; available via Ticketmaster

Bengals Official Site says Cedric Benson would like to be 2nd Cincinnati RB to snap long Ravens streak of not allowing 100 yard rusher (Corey Dillon snapped a 50 game streak in ’01)

The Sun’s Ken Murray says high draft picks Keith Rivers, Maualuga, Leon Hall, Jonathan Joseph paying off for Bengals

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens need to run football, protect Flacco, get big returns

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Ravens must avoid turnovers, stay strong defensively in red zone, and can’t allow Bengals to put together dramatic drive late

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Jeff Triplette’s crew will officiate Ravens-Bengals Sunday; crew led NFL in holding calls last season

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says defense trying to ‘mesh’ with Greg Mattison

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Lardarius Webb will be primary kick returner Sunday

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Jarret Johnson knows defense supports Mattison

The Sun’s Mike Preston wonders if Tavares Gooden better served playing safety

The Sun’s Mike Preston says Lardarius Webb can get ‘wild’

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Reed, Ngata, Gooden fully practiced

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Tavares Gooden, Jameel McClain, Dannell Ellerbe will all play Sunday

The Sun remembers Flacco winning NFL debut last season against Cincinnati in Baltimore

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Ravens ‘comfortable’ if Oher has to start at LT

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Chris Carr remains primary punt returner, nickel back

Cincinnati Enquirer’s John Erardi says Bengals DT Tank Johnson believes Ravens capable of running for 300 yards or throwing for 300 yards

Dayton Daily News’ Kyle Nagel says Ray Lewis believes there’s still something special about facing Marvin Lewis

NFL Network’s Brian Baldinger and Joe Theismann picked Ravens, Shannon Sharpe picked Bengals

NFL.com’s Gil Brandt looking forward to seeing Bengals’ Andrew Whitworth vs. Ravens’ Terrell Suggs

Sporting News’ Vinnie Iyer picks Ravens 27-13

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco gives Ravens B+ for first 4 games of season

ESPN.com’s Mike Sando has Flacco 8th in MVP rankings

ESPN.com’s James Walker doubts Benson can reach 100 yards

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Kelley Washington has something to show against former team

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Davin Meggett, Demetrius Hartsfield will carry flags for Terps before Wake kickoff

Wake Forest Official Site says Terps trying to avenge choke job in last trip to Winston-Salem back in ‘07

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Bruce Campbell OUT for tomorrow’s game

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Fridge believes Morgan Green ‘hasn’t really progressed’

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Terps have chance to contend in ACC Atlantic if they beat WFU

The Diamondback’s Eric Detweiler says O-Line has allowed ACC-high 18 sacks this season

The Diamondback’s Michael Katz says Friedgen knows Jim Grobe likes to ‘think outside the box’ offensively

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Mike Barbour out tomorrow, David May to travel as backup kicker

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell picks Wake 26-23

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Pinegar, RJ Dill to start at OT positions

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says freshmen D-Linemen Isaiah Ross, A.J. Francis, Zach Kerr, Carl Russell give Terps ‘bright future’

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens picks Terps 21-20

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps lead all-time series with Wake 41-15-1

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Travis Baltz ‘questionable’ for next week against Virginia

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Terps likely to ‘lean heavy’ on Da’Rel Scott, Gary Douglas this week

Washington Examiner’s Kevin Dunleavy says Terps must slow down Wake combo of Riley Skinner, Marshall Williams

Winston-Salem Journal’s Dan Collins says CB Kenny Okoro to make first start for Deacs Saturday against Terps

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Grobe believes Chris Turner ‘owned’ Deacs last season

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Terps have won 6 of last 8 with Wake

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich says Terps have offered Connor Wujciak (Alex’s little brother)

ESPN.com’s Heather Dinich picks Deacs 21-14

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says Nick Ferrara putting together impressive resume with Terps (must subscribe)

Terrapin Times’ Keith Cavanaugh says backup center Danny Edwards will miss tomorrow’s game with concussion (must subscribe)

Turtle Sports Report’s Matt Owings breaks down Terrapins-Demon Deacons

Turtle Sports Report’s John Talty says Maryland interested in ’11 prospect Lamonte Clark (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says Germany native/Point Pleasant Beach (NJ) prospect Jarelle Reischel visiting campus (must subscribe)

TERRAPINS WOMEN’S BASKETBALL:

Terrapin Times’ Dan Painter says commit Whitney Bays had ‘comfort level’ in College Park (must subscribe)

NAVY FOOTBALL:

Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Teich won’t rule himself out of Rice game in native Houston

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Buddy Green ‘preaching preparation’ for Mids

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Tuani leader on field even if he isn’t stats guy

Washington Times’ Mike Fratto says Pospisil ‘emotional leader’ for Navy

Washington Examiner’s Kevin Dunleavy says Mids showing ‘improvement’ defensively even without Nate Frazier

Go Mids breaks down “need to know” facts about Midshipmen, Owls

TOWSON FOOTBALL:

Examiner Matthew Schlissel says Tigers, Rhode Island each looking for first CAA win tomorrow

LOYOLA BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says Greyhounds AD Joe Boylan will end 19 year run as Athletic Director next year with retirement

HOPKINS LACROSSE:

Washington Examiner’s Brian McNally says former Blue Jay Rabil amongst greatest athletes in DeMatha history

ORIOLES:

The Sun says Markakis finalist for Hutch award

Examiner Jay Trucker thinks Matusz, Guthrie, Tillman, Bergesen looks for Birds’ rotation in ‘10

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Josh Bell top 3B in organization

CRYSTAL PALACE USA:

The Official Site says Palace hosting Team USA’s U-17 squad next Saturday at Loyola

HORSE RACING:

Daily Racing Form’s Jay Privman says Kentucky Derby winner Mine That Bird reunited with jockey Borel for Goodwood Stakes

Daily Racing Form’s Jay Hovdey says New Mexico has rallied behind Mine That Bird trainer Woolley

RUNNING:

The Sun’s Mike Klingaman says Ellicott City’s Timothy Kirby to race ‘shadow’ run in Iraq while marathon held tomorrow

FIGURE SKATING:

The Sun’s Candus Thomson says Meissner withdraws from competition for spot on 2010 Olympics team

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Might as well give Lardarius Webb a shot to return kicks. It won’t change the team, but it’s worth the look.

Talk to you from Owings Mills.

-G

So many Ravens tidbits yesterday-my comments were spread out on the air on AM1570, on Twitter, etc. Let me consolidate them here.

Tony Fein’s death: Tony was one of the better guys to be around in Westminster during Training Camp. Sadly, he will be best remembered for an incident in the Inner Harbor (a source there that night called the incident “complete overreaction” on both parties) that probably would have been dismissed, which is unfortunate. Tony’s service to his country and his dedication to the game of football were really special. He was friends with fellow former Ole Miss Rebels Jason Cook and Michael Oher; I imagine Oher is hurting today.

Ray Lewis, Ed Reed, Terrell Suggs NOT fined: I think it is important to remember that the comments made by these players were more about the RULES themselves than about the actual calls made by Ron Winter’s crew Sunday in Foxborough. Had T-Sizzle said something like “Ron Winter is blind”, he definitely would have been fined. Instead, all players talked about how quarterbacks are overprotected. They’re probably right.

Brendon Ayanbadejo OFFICIALLY to IR, Prescott Burgess OFFICIALLY brought back: Least surprising move I’ve ever seen. Burgess will join Antwan Barnes and Dannell Ellerbe as guys who will be counted on to contribute on both special teams and defense. We all knew this was coming; now Prescott gets his chance to prove himself again.

Chad Ochocinco gets into Twitter fight with Domonique Foxworth, Fabian Washington: Chad Ochocinco is an entertainer. Dom and Fabe (is that a good name for a pop group?) just need to be football players. Everything said yesterday was in good fun; and I actually LOVE 85’s “Kiss Da Baby” line, and none if the back and forth will matter if the Ravens’ corners play well Sunday.

Matt Stover tries out with Giants: I really thought the Browns would have tried to get Matt to kick for a day when they came to town with Phil Dawson hurt 2 weeks ago. New York is a close enough commute that I believe Matt would consider doing it if he was offered. However, it looks like Lawrence Tynes will remain in New York.

Best of Tuesday’s WNST Blogs:

Thyrl Nelson says Belichick appeared ‘truly giddy’ to beat Ravens

Luke Jones says Fein was teammates with Oher, Jason Cook at Ole Miss

Glenn Clark remembers great Maryland-Wake Forest moment

Ed Frankovic says Caps fell to Flyers 6-5 in OT

Drew Forrester not taking Capitals’ loss well

RAVENS:

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Ravens officially brought back Prescott Burgess from Patriots’ practice squad

The Official Site says Ayanbadejo placed on IR to make room for Burgess

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says NFL chose not to fine Ray Lewis, Ed Reed for officiating comments

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Harbaugh standing by Mark Clayton

The Official Site’s Mike Duffy says Pats zeroed in on Derrick Mason after early success Sunday

The Official Site says Chris Carr doesn’t think he could play NHL hockey

Bengals Official Site’s Geoff Hobson says TE J.P. Foschi playing like ‘pro’ for Cincinnati

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says no details known in death of former Ravens LB hopeful Tony Fein

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Ayanbadejo to have surgery after meeting with Dr. James Andrews in Birmingham

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Kelley Washington excited to face former team Saturday

The Sun’s Kevin Cowherd says Clayton ‘tough’ through adversity of late drop

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. cleans up after me

The Sun’s Edward Lee says Ochocinco, Dominique Foxworth, Fabian Washington fought on Twitter Tuesday

The Sun’s Ron Fritz says Matt Stover tried out with Giants

The Sun’s Jamison Hensley says Burgess had been playing very well before being traded to NE

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says Dannell Ellerbe got off to ‘strong’ start for Ravens in first action against New England

Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says VP of football operations Ray Anderson did not believe comments by 52, Reed warranted fines

The AP says Fein’s agent Milton Hobbs said player was working out in Port Orchard, WA in hopes of playing football again

Cincinnati Enquirer’s Joe Reedy says Bengals hoping to have Tank Johnson, Roy Williams back for Sunday’s game

USA Today has Ravens 5th in power rankings

Sporting News says Baltimore 28th best sports city in country

Yahoo! Sports’ Michael Silver has Ravens 7th in power rankings

NFL.com has Ravens 4th in power rankings

CBS Sports’ Pete Prisco has Ravens 8th in power rankings

Fox Sports’ Adrian Hasenmayer has Ravens 7th in power rankings

ESPN.com has Ravens 7th in power rankings

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ravens have stayed high on Dannell Ellerbe

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ayanbadejo will be a ‘significant loss’

ESPN.com’s James Walker thinks Ravens deserve to be ahead of Jets in power rankings

ESPN.com’s James Walker says Ray Rice hot, Mark Clayton not so much

TERRAPINS FOOTBALL:

Wake Forest Official Site previews Demon Deacons’ game against Maryland Saturday

Wake Forest Official Site offers complete Deacs-Terps release (pdf)

The Sun’s Sandra McKee says Fridge wouldn’t rule Campbell out for Saturday in Winston-Salem

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Ralph doesn’t appear to be looking to Morgan Green for help at RB

The Sun’s Jeff Barker says Pinegar working as starter with Bruce Campbell hurt

Carroll County Times’ Matt Zenitz says things finally clicking for Don Brown’s defense

The AP says Friedgen knows Terps can’t ‘relax’ after win over Clemson

The Diamondback’s Adi Joseph says Nick Klemm or Pete deSouza could be forced into action with Bruce Campbell’s injury

The Diamondback’s Michael Katz says Demetrius Hartsfield nominated for AT&T All-America Player of the Week Award

Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Campbell likely to be game time decision against Wake

Washington Post’s Steve Yanda says supporter Jack Heise passed away

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Cam Chism has contributed earlier that he was expected to

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Chris Turner bounced back from rough performance against Rutgers

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Tony Logan listed ahead of Anthony Wiseman on depth chart at punt returner

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Travis Baltz, Louis Berman, Nolan Carroll, Da’Rel Scott, Joe Vellano definitely OUT Saturday

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Ralph prefers D.J. Adams, Caleb Porzel to Morgan Green

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says Jack Heise’s death came shortly after fellow supporter Bob Novak’s death

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says James Franklin admitted Terps need to go with younger backs because Morgan Green just hasn’t shown enough

Winston-Salem Journal’s Dan Collins says RB Kevin Harris, TE’s Cameron Ford, Ben Wooster not expected to play Saturday against Terps

ESPN.com’s Pat Forde offers Clemson ‘apology’ for loss to Maryland

TERRAPINS BASKETBALL:

Examiner Matthew Bouchard says Terps better to have Jordan Williams issue resolved before Maryland Madness

NAVY FOOTBALL:

The Official Site says Niumatalolo believes Teich doubtful for Saturday against Rice

Annapolis Capital’s Gerry Jackson says Navy football fans don’t have much to complain about with Niumatalolo’s Midshipmen

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Joe Buckley getting special treatment in Annapolis after big kick

Washington Post’s Camille Powell says Vince Murray to start at Fullback for Mids against Rice

NAVY BASKETBALL:

The Official Site says MASN, CBS College Sports will carry 5 Midshipmen games this season

Washington Times’ Patrick Stevens says former Mid David Robinson named to CAA’s 25th anniversary team

ORIOLES:

The Sun’s Dan Connolly says Wieters brought ‘poise, persistence’ to O’s in rookie campaign

The Sun’s Peter Schmuck doesn’t see Juan Samuel leaving club

USA Today has Birds 28th in final power rankings

CBS Sports’ Larry Dobrow has Birds 28th in final power rankings

ORIOLES MINOR LEAGUES:

The Sun’s Dean Jones Jr. says Pedro Florimon top SS in organization

SOCCER:

The Sun’s Kevin Van Valkenburg and Lorraine Mirabella say Sheila Dixon interested in building soccer stadium downtown to try to lure DC United to Baltimore

Examiner Jeff Hemelt says Dixon wants stadium near Camden Yards, M&T Bank Stadium

Washington Post’s Steve Goff says United recognizes Baltimore’s ability to build ‘world-class’ sports facilities

Washington Times’ Tim Lemke says United ‘look forward’ to results of Maryland Stadium Authority’s study of Baltimore as possible new home

SOME QUICK THOUGHTS:

-Having Bruce Campbell would make a WORLD of difference for Maryland Saturday against WFU. Davin Meggett will have to shoulder a load, and Chris Turner HAS to stay on his feet. With no offense to Paul Pinegar, they could REALLY use Bruce Campbell.

-I am ALL FOR the city of Baltimore building a “secondary stadium” with hopes of having MLS as a primary tenant. Much like Drew Forrester, I think an arena is a more PRESSING priority; but cities across the country are building stadiums like this, and Baltimore has the chance to make money off of an immediate professional sports franchise that needs a new home.

Talk to you from Owings Mills.

-G