On the same day former offensive coordinator James Franklin officially became the head coach at Vanderbilt, an even bigger bombshell is brewing in College Park.

Comcast SportsNet’s Chick Hernandez is reporting the University of Maryland has asked Ralph Friedgen to accept a buyout of the final year of his contract, potentially ending his 10-year run as head coach of the Terps.

New athletic director Kevin Anderson previously stated last month that Friedgen would return to coach in 2011, but the departure of Franklin — previously the coach-in-waiting and Maryland’s top recruiter — may have accelerated his desire to make a new mark on a program that’s struggled in recent years despite a successful 8-4 campaign this season. Friedgen was named the 2010 ACC Coach of the Year following a six-game turnaround from a year ago.

In a teleconference regarding Franklin’s exit on Friday afternoon, Anderson would not confirm Friedgen’s return in 2011. The athletic director also said he did not make a counteroffer to persuade Franklin to remain with the Terps, adding fuel to the speculative fire that he’s aiming to clean house.

Maryland will play East Carolina in the Military Bowl on December 29 in a game now looking far more intriguing given this week’s drama and the immediate and long-term future of the program.

Strangely enough, I opined on Tuesday that Anderson was the wild card for the future of Maryland football and could elect to wipe the slate clean to take the struggling program in a new direction. I just never dreamed the shakeup would come so soon.

Stay right here at WNST.net for updates on this developing story and subscribe to the WNST Text Service for the quickest updates sent right to your mobile device.

The report of offensive coordinator James Franklin accepting an offer to become the head coach at Vanderbilt provides conflicting feelings if you’re a supporter of Maryland football.

On one hand, the coach-in-waiting was the program’s heavyweight recruiter, a charismatic 38-year-old who can make the connections with young football players that current head coach Ralph Friedgen cannot at the age of 63. Franklin was entrusted to revitalize recruiting after the program plateaued — or regressed — in recent years after Friedgen’s success at the beginning of his 10-season tenure.

Following a 2-10 season in 2009 when it looked like the futures of both Friedgen and Franklin were in doubt, it was redshirt freshman Danny O’Brien — heavily recruited out of Kernersville, N.C. by the offensive coordinator — who stabilized the quarterback position and led the Terps to an improbable 8-4 season and trip to the Military Bowl against East Carolina on December 29. It likely saved the jobs of both men as new athletic director Kevin Anderson was settling into the job formerly held by Debbie Yow, who orchestrated the coach-in-waiting agreement nearly two years ago.

And here is where feelings begin to conflict regarding Franklin’s departure for the Commodores and the SEC.

That coach-in-waiting designation included a $1 million bonus for Franklin had he not been named head coach by Jan. 2, 2012. At the time, Yow viewed it as a necessary measure to insure the program would not lose its young figurehead of the future after an aging Friedgen would retire from his alma mater.

However, for a program struggling to sell tickets and operating on a shoestring budget in relation to its ACC counterparts, the agreement began looking more like a brick wall than an insurance policy as the Terps struggled through that disastrous 2009 campaign. As much as many fans don’t want to hear it, money was the biggest factor in the decision to retain both Friedgen and Franklin for the 2010 season.

Whether you’re an affluent program or not, $1 million is a lot of money to pay someone not to become your head coach, not to mention the two years of salary each coach was owed at the time.

Fast-forward to the present, and the Terps appear to be in better shape on the field after a six-game turnaround and pending “trip” (the game’s being played in Washington, D.C., after all) to a bowl game. Maryland announced last month that Friedgen would return in 2011, and now the head coach seeks a contract extension beyond next year.

It’s a tough decision that looms for the new athletic director, the man left to deal with a precarious situation in his first few months in College Park. Anderson publicly expressed his disdain for coach-in-waiting agreements back in October, not an indictment of Franklin at the time but not exactly a ringing endorsement either.

The sheer fact that Franklin was willing to take the Vanderbilt job in the cutthroat nature of the SEC speaks volumes about where he thought he stood at Maryland in regards to his future as the potential head coach. If Franklin thought it was tough getting recruits to come to College Park, he’ll have a difficult time persuading top players to join a program that’s played in two bowl games in the last 36 years to get their brains beaten in by the college football royalty that exists in the SEC annually.

The writing was on the wall for the young coach. If the Terps would flourish again, Anderson would have little choice but to offer Friedgen some type of extension, leaving Franklin $1 million richer, but with no guarantee of a head job elsewhere.

If Maryland were to fall on hard times again, Franklin likely would have found himself unemployed (along with Friedgen) and no longer in a position to pursue a top gig, even with a fatter wallet.

Through it all, the new athletic director remains the wild card of Maryland football, with no one knowing exactly what Anderon has in mind for the future.

It was a gamble that Franklin, apparently, was not willing to take with the current opportunity to become a head coach elsewhere.

With the $1 million coach-in-waiting clause no longer a factor, Friedgen might now feel he’s in a better position to coach beyond the 2011 season, even though he no longer possesses his top recruiter and offensive coordinator. Or Anderson may view the veteran coach as the only obstacle blocking a fresh start for a program that’s fallen on hard times after a brief renaissance early in the Friedgen era, this year notwithstanding.

Franklin’s departure will certainly impact recruiting and the offensive product on the field, but it also creates the financial flexibility for Anderson to wipe the slate clean and start anew should he decide Friedgen is not his man beyond the 2011 season.

Whatever the case, its impact on the future of Maryland football cannot be argued.

Time will only tell whether it pays off for the parties involved.

Happy Thursday!

It’s a Happy Thursday for me because I left “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” playing on a loop on my DVD player the other night, which means I’ve seen THIS scene play out about twenty times now since Thanksgiving. It hasn’t gotten old.

(Edit from GMC: You know damn well there’s an “F word” in this clip. Act accordingly.)

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mk74WprmZxY[/youtube]

Let’s see what everyone has to say…

1. WNST.net’s Drew Forrester says John Harbaugh didn’t intend to direct Tuesday night comments to all Baltimore fans

But there’s no doubt how folks in Charm City TOOK the comments, and that’s what Harbaugh is going to have to keep in mind moving forward.

I’m a little spent on Harbaugh comments following my column yesterday comparing him and former Ohio State coach John Cooper (you should go here and read it). I’ve talked to a number of football fans in town over the last 24 hours and there’s no question the comments stuck with fans.

I understand where John Harbaugh’s emotion came from Tuesday night. I understand that he’s as frustrated (if not more) than anyone in town right now.

But he HAS to be more respectful to fans-even when they’re insane. (Edit from GMC: Says the guy who loses his mind on football fans on a regular basis.)

It’s part of the job, whether he wants it to be or not.

2. WNST.net’s Glenn Clark says Ravens LB Jameel McClain will appeal $40k fine

There’s no doubt McClain’s fine was a bit excessive for a first time offender who had no intent to hit Pittsburgh TE Heath Miller in the head. But something tells me the NFL has decided they need to make a statement in this case because the game was seen by a HUGE audience on NBC’s Sunday Night Football.

Make no mistake. This will absolutely be a significant issue as the NFLPA enters labor discussions this offseason and we head towards a potential lockout in 2011. If the league wants any concessions from players regarding revenue, they are almost certainly going to have to concede this outrageous fines even if they are simply trying to protect their players.

It’s not going to be an easy fight.

3. BaltimoreRavens.com’s Mike Duffy says Ed Reed believes Steelers WR Hines Ward deserved fine as well

Speaking of fine, here’s a picture of Danielle Dwyer. (Thanks Brosome via Busted Coverage!)

4. National Football Post’s Aaron Wilson says Ravens lost CB Prince Miller to Detroit Lions, signed CB Danny Gorrer to practice squad

And before we move on from the Ravens, a couple of things…

-The Ravens return to the practice field at 1 Winning Drive in Owings Mills today. Harbaugh, QB Joe Flacco, RB Ray Rice, LB Ray Lewis and others are scheduled to address the media. We’ll have full coverage, so make sure you stay tuned to AM1570 WNST, follow us on Twitter (@WNST) and keep checking back at WNST.net.

-Did you miss Ravens TE Ed Dickson with Drew Forrester Thursday on “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST? Make sure you head over to the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault here at WNST.net today to check it out. Some other things you can hear in the Audio Vault include…

• Sean Salisbury (“Sean Unfiltered”-Voice America Sports Radio)-who went around the NFL with Drew Thursday
• Michael Bradley (Philadelphia Magazine)-who talked about his decision to not give his Heisman Trophy vote to Cam Newton with Drew Thursday
• Our Morning Reaction “Cheap Shots From The Bleachers”, as Drew took a shot at Cam Newton winning the Heisman, and Glenn Clark took a shot at fans who don’t “get” the Army/Navy Game
• Vinnie Iyer (Sporting News)-who went around the NFL with Rex Snider Wednesday on “The Afternoon Drive”
• Barry Barnes (Fanhouse)-who went around the AFC North with Rex Wednesday
• Jean Fugett Jr. (Former Washington Redskins & Dallas Cowboys TE)-who discussed the loss of Todd Heap with Rex Wednesday
• Lee Hull (Terps WR Coach)-who joined Thyrl Nelson Wednesday for “The Terrapins Coaches’ Report”
• Steve Beck (Military Bowl Executive Director)-who discussed the Maryland-East Carolina matchup with Thyrl Wednesday on “The Mobtown Sports Beat”
• Mike Bauman (MLB.com)-who checked in with Thyrl Wednesday from the MLB winter meetings in Orlando
• Plenty of audio from 1 Winning Drive Wednesday; including Dickson, Jameel McClain, Le’Ron McClain, Todd Heap, Derrick Mason, Anquan Boldin and Kelly Gregg
• Post-game audio from Maryland’s win over UNC Greensboro last night; including Gary Williams, Jordan Williams, Cliff Tucker and Adrian Bowie

It’s all in the Audio Vault, so make sure you take a few minutes today to check it out. You know you want to.

5. MLB.com’s Kelly Thesier says Orioles, Minnesota Twins could finalize deal for JJ Hardy today

Between this and Mitch Atkins, I’m not sure how the Birds CAN’T win the World Series next year!

If they’re still looking to make a splash before the end of the meetings, I have a suggestion for Andy MacPhail. Consider Alina Vacariu. (Thanks Guyism!)

(Edit from GMC: UPDATE-CBSSports.com now says the deal is done. Hooray!)

6. The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says O’s agreed to terms with Koji Uehara on one year deal

I don’t know if this has ever happened before, but if I were the Orioles I might go ahead and consider a ticker tape parade BEFORE Spring Training.

The Orioles made other news Wednesday, as they distanced themselves from comments made by Luke Scott in an interview with Yahoo! Sports.

I can’t imagine why…

7. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens says Adrian Bowie, Cliff Tucker respond to adversity as Maryland crushed UNC Greensboro

The Spartans stink. That being said, even they could beat Penn State.

Gary Williams said after the game he considered making lineup changes following the Terps’ poor offensive output against Temple in the BB&T Classic.

Cliff Tucker said he didn’t know he was starting until earlier in the day Wednesday.

Gary Williams WANTS to stick with Tucker and Bowie all season. Fans want to see Terrell Stoglin and Pe’Shon Howard in the lineup.

What ends up happening will have everything to do with whether or not Tucker and Bowie can play with consistency over the next few weeks.

Maryland opens ACC play Sunday afternoon (4pm on Comcast SportsNet/Fox Sports Net) when they host Boston College at Comcast Center.

8. TowsonTigers.com says Josh Brown and Rashawn Polk scored 18 points each, but Towson couldn’t hold off George Washington in DC

A loss to the Colonials probably won’t impress anyone, but a six point game against GWU at the Smith Center is likely a sign of progress for Pat Kennedy’s team. One major problem from last night? They got just one point from Troy Franklin. I don’t think they’ll win many games that way.

Towson now heads to Catonsville next for a contest with UMBC at RAC Arena Saturday night. The Retrievers had a rough night last night, as they were pounded by Rider 81-39. I’d tell you something about that game, but what the hell is there to say?

9. The AP says Shane Walker & Robert Olson each scored 14, but Loyola lost to George Mason in Fairfax

Tough night for Jimmy Patsos’ Greyhounds last night at the Patriot Center.

In honor of the holiday season, I’m going to try to make some spirits bright here. Here’s a picture of Tehmeena Afzal. (Thanks The Smoking Jacket!)

10. Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Terrapins Offensive Coordinator James Franklin finalist for head coaching gig at Vanderbilt

This COULD end up being helpful for Kevin Anderson and the folks in College Park.

James Franklin did a HELL of a job with Danny O’Brien this season. Should he leave for the Commodores, his leadership would be missed.

But the Terps have a MESS on their hands with this transition. Either they’re going to have to force Ralph Friedgen out and give the job to Franklin (which didn’t seem so unlikely a season ago), or they’re going to have to dish out a million bucks they don’t have.

If Franklin heads to Nashville, Maryland avoids that problem. Either they can extend Friedgen should he have another good season or they can hire whatever available coach they want to hire.

But bear in mind-the leadership at the University of Maryland WANTED James Franklin to be the next head coach. The move wasn’t just made to keep him from going back to Kansas State. They ABSOLUTELY thought Franklin represented what they wanted in a head coach.

It’s just become a much stickier situation than they originally expected.

And finally, I leave you with this.

Time for a few new versions of “The Greatest Song(s) of All Time This Week.”

It’s a Christmas edition this time around.

The retro version of TGSOATTW is “Christmas Song” by Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds. WIN.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x33XlnWWfaI[/youtube]

The new version is the version of “Last Christmas” they did on GLEE. Please don’t judge me because I like this.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WoNvv7hq364[/youtube]

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Don’t call it a “pleasant surprise.”

Don’t call it a “respectable turnaround.”

Don’t dare call it a “nice story.”

After beating the 23rd-ranked North Carolina State Wolfpack 38-31 in their regular-season finale Saturday at Byrd Stadium, the Maryland Terrapins (8-4, 5-3 ACC) put the final touch on a season that can only be described as a “success.”

It might not be the type of success that will make fans in Baltimore and DC rush to purchase season tickets (Saturday’s attendance was only an announced 35,370), as it won’t end with an ACC Championship Game appearance and could possibly result in only a trip to the Military Bowl at RFK Stadium.

But by picking up win no. 8 against an NC State (8-4, 5-3) squad that would have clinched a berth in next week’s title game at Bank of America Stadium, the Terps bridged the gap between “good story” and “successful season.”

Then, athletic director Debbie Yow (who departed College Park for Raleigh in July) announced last December that she would retain head coach Ralph Friedgen. In an interview with Drew Forrester shortly thereafter on AM1570 WNST, she made it clear that her expectation for Friedgen’s 2010 Terps was at least a 7-5 finish.

Despite Yow being replaced in the AD post by Kevin Anderson this fall, it remained fair for those around the Maryland program to have an expectation for the Terps to finish the season 7-5. If Friedgen’s team really was moving in the right direction, their 2010 schedule was not so daunting that it couldn’t result in at least seven victories.

Seven wins would have been a feel-good story.

The eighth victory makes it a real success.

“I’m really happy for our players” said Friedgen. “(They’ll) finally hopefully start getting some respect. Even when we’re doing well, we never beat anybody. Well, we beat somebody tonight.”

The way Maryland came about victory no. 8 makes it even more impressive. After a November 20th loss to Florida State eliminated Maryland from having any chance of reaching Charlotte, it would not have been stunning to see the Terps roll over against the ‘Pack. Quarterback Russell Wilson and NCSU were still very much alive in the ACC title game picture, with legitimate dreams of an Orange Bowl berth.

It appeared as though that possibility would come to fruition early on Saturday, as the Terps fell behind 14-0 after two offensive possessions for each team. But freshman quarterback Danny O’Brien rallied the Terps, connecting with receiver Torrey Smith four times for touchdowns (a school record for the receiver), and the Terrapins wouldn’t allow another NC State touchdown until the fourth quarter, after they had already built a 21-point advantage.

There was particular emotion evident from Maryland players and coaches (including an exuberant leap from defensive line coach Dave Sollazzo following a fourth quarter sack by DL Drew Gloster) throughout the game. It was a stark contrast to what happened two seasons ago, when Maryland was eliminated from the ACC title picture in a blowout loss to the Seminoles, then finished the season with another loss at Boston College.

Friedgen said he was concerned about the possibility of a letdown.

“It was hard. I was concerned about it going into today’s game. I kinda talked to them last night. I said ‘things in life that you really want, you don’t always get. But sometimes it’s darkest before the dawn. And if you keep persevering and you keep working, sometimes all of a sudden good things happen.’ I said, ‘I know how down you are, but there’s nothing we can do about that but go back to work.’”

Friedgen’s words rang true with Maryland players.

“We were upset we weren’t playing for an ACC title because we felt like we were good enough to play in a game like that,” said O’Brien. “But like coach said, we still had a lot to play for. I think we got up to play where a lot of teams might not have.”

“He just told us we still had a lot to play for,” said senior linebacker Alex Wujciak. “Going to a good bowl game, finishing right on Senior Night, beating a ranked team, there’s still a lot of things that this game meant for us.”

Finishing a regular season with eight wins does not solve all of the problems surrounding the Maryland football program (as Saturday’s attendance made clear), but it absolutely offers a statement of hope for 2011 no matter what happens in Maryland’s bowl appearance.

The Terrapins clearly have a quarterback who they can expect big things from in O’Brien. Just 10 of the 44 players on their 2-deep roster (offense and defense) participated in Saturday’s Senior Day even — meaning the team will bring back plenty of talent (Smith could also be tempted to throw his name into the NFL Draft).

But 2010 was not just a season about building expectations for the future. It was a regular season that gave fans both thrills and memories. The final stop against Navy at M&T Bank Stadium, the debut of O’Brien against Florida International, the emotional win at BC after Pete DeSouza’s scooter accident and the offensive shows against Morgan State, Virginia and NC State will not be forgotten by the fans that had the pleasure of watching and following.

The 2010 Terrapins were not a team that made a good run or simply took advantage of a soft schedule. The 2010 Terrapins were a good team.

A good team whose on-field performance is deserving of being remembered as a success.

After a 2-10 season in 2009 and last week’s heartbreak of being eliminated in the ACC title race, the win most certainly capped the emergence of a Maryland team from darkness.

-G

Hear from Friedgen, O’Brien, Smith, Wujciak, Gloster, OC James Franklin and DC Don Brown following Maryland’s win NOW in the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault here at WNST.net!

The Maryland Terrapins football team (7-3, 4-2 ACC) is on its way toward an Atlantic Division championship, and maybe their biggest hurdle toward that goal is the Florida State Seminoles (7-3, 5-2 ACC).

And FSU’s coach, first-year coach Jimbo Fisher, joined “The Morning Reaction” Wednesday to preview the hurdle in front of his squad that Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen is showing right now.

“‘They’re doing a great job,” Fisher said. “Ralph’s a very good football coach, and their staff and him have done a really great job. The kids are really playing well.”

Both teams come in with identical 7-3 records, with Maryland standing at 4-2 in the ACC and the Seminoles with a record of 5-2.

Maryland and the Terps’ next opponent, N.C. State, control their own destinies from this point on.

Maryland may be the benefactor of an easy schedule this year, but for the Seminoles, the team in College Park is another ACC opponent and a big rivalry game on the road that they can’t take for granted.

Maryland has the biggest turnaround in the ACC(+5), and Maryland’s offense has scored 40 or more points four times this year.

And ultimately, Fisher already knows what the key is to stopping Maryland’s progress. And it all hangs on the play of freshman Terps quarterback Danny O’Brien, who recently threw for 289 yards and two scores in Maryland’s 42-23 victory over the Virginia Cavaliers.

O’Brien currently has 1,571 yards on the season and has averaged 213 ypg in his seven starts.

“I remember him in high school,” Fisher said. “I saw him and liked him a bunch. I really did.”

“He has big arm talent like you said, very accurate, who has the instincts, pocket presence, throws the ball where it’s got to go, in a hurry, is a leader, and he has all the intangibles. He’s made a difference, and they’ve done a great job playing around.”

Fisher said it’s been a difficult look for him to evaluate the Terps, as it seems game-in and game-out Maryland seems to either run all over their opponent or throw the ball over the top.

The inconsistency has challenged Fisher’s defense in practice this week.

“Ralph makes up a lot of different looks, they run the option, and they do a lot of different things. So they will have all the facets they need, but quarterback has really made a big change for them,” Fisher noted.

Fisher said he has his own plans to balance the Seminoles attack against the Terps on Saturday to avoid a Maryland defense capable of grabbing turnovers.

Maryland has 15 interceptions on the season-the most for the Terps since 2002-and eight of them have come from their linebacking corps of Adrian Moten, Alex Wujciak, Demetrius Hartsfield, and Ryan Donohue.

“I’ve always believed in balance,” Fisher replied. “You have to be able to throw it, and you have to be able to run it. If you can’t do both, good teams will eventually shut you down and we’ll watch you go in and play good defense.”

” They do a good job…Maryland creates a lot of turnovers, and I think that’s one of the things they realize they’re doing well. They’re plus-13 in the turnover ratio, and they do a tremendous job of getting turnovers on defense.”

The news Thursday around College Park was that Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen would be returning for an 11th season.

Friedgen joined the elite coaching ranks of the ACC as he recently became only the 13th head coach conference history to amass 70 career wins.

Fisher threw a lot of  respect toward his counterpart, but Forrester also asked Jimbo Fisher what it was like to replace a legend in his own right.

Fisher was the coach in-waiting for the Seminoles (a similar situation with Terps offensive coordinator James Franklin under Friedgen) behind longtime coach Bobby Bowden, who spent 33 years on the sidelines at Florida State.

Fisher said there has been a lot of pressure on him to perform-which he has so far this year-but still it’s always tough being the first guy to get the coaching gig after a living legend at an institution moves on.

“It’s been really good,” Fisher said. “Bowden was a legend. He was a hero and he was my hero. We were very close, and it’s been very good.”

“When I look at the numbers, when you’re replacing a legend, you don’t want to be the first guy, but when you’re offered a job like that, you don’t go, nah.”

But so far, he has received the full support of the boosters and the fan-base and that’s all he can ask for.

“You’re still getting 70,000-plus fans a game,” Fisher said. “We are, and we had a super crowd last game, and it was a good atmosphere. The more games we win, the more support we will get from the fans.”

Tune into WNST and WNST.net as we continue to follow the Terps as we close out the season! WNST-We Never Stop Talking Baltimore Sports!

In a season many thought would be his last in College Park, Ralph Friedgen has led the Terps to a surprising 7-3 record and the precipice of the Atlantic Division crown with wins in their final two games.

And that was good enough for new athletic director Kevin Anderson.

In a statement released by the University of Maryland Thursday, Anderson announced Friedgen would return for his 11th season as Terrapins coach in 2011.

“Based largely on the improved performance of our team and student-athletes this season, Coach Friedgen will be our head football coach next year,” Anderson said. “Once this season is complete, [Friedgen] and I will sit down to discuss the current state and future of the program. Right now, the team’s focus will be on winning the 2010 ACC Championship and a bowl game, which our coaching staff and student-athletes have put themselves in position to do. We hope our fans, students, and alums will come out and support us in the effort.”

The near $2 million owed to Friedgen in the final year of his contract played a major part in the decision, as the school has made no secret about the program’s financial programs with unsold suites in the recently-renovated Tyser Tower and poor attendance in recent seasons. His contract expires on Jan. 2, 2012, the same date current offensive coordinator James Franklin will become head coach or receive $1 million from the school.

The Terps became bowl-eligible in a 62-14 victory over Wake Forest on Oct. 30 and clinched a winning season with a 42-23 win at Virginia last Saturday. Maryland will advance to the ACC title game with wins over Florida State and N.C. State in their final two games of the regular season, both at Byrd Stadium.

“I’m excited about the direction of our program,” Friedgen said in a statement. “We have a great bunch of kids and a tremendous staff. I’m thankful for all the hard work they have put into this season. Right now, we’re just concentrating on Florida State.”

The Terps will host Florida State 8 p.m. Saturday night in a game televised regionally on ABC.

Happy Thursday!

It’s a Happy Thursday for me because Jimmy Fallon actually did something funny. I won’t even bother with a “no offense” precursor. Fallon really isn’t that funny.

But he was the other night.

Here’s Fallon (joined by Bruce Springsteen) performing a version of “Whip My Hair” by Willow…AS Neil Young.

Sounds complicated. Just watch. It’s REALLY funny.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhFh-JqQuMg[/youtube]

Let’s see what everyone has to say…

1. WNST.net’s Glenn Clark says Ravens not looking past Carolina Panthers

Nor could they.

As I’ve said ad nauseam this season, it just doesn’t work like that in the NFL.

In the NFL, players literally do nothing all week EXCEPT prepare for that Sunday’s opponent.

Everywhere a player walks in Owings Mills this week, they see pictures of Panthers players like Jon Beason. Every time they talk to a coach, they’re hearing something about John Fox’s schemes.

They might well know that their NFC South opponent is inferior, but they’re still spending an entire week with their single focus on that team.

No one is talking about the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. No one is thinking about the Pittsburgh Steelers or the New Orleans Saints.

The ONLY thought process in the building this week is Sunday’s game in Charlotte.

In college football, there are distractions. An Alabama player can hear about Vanderbilt all week in practice, but when they go to class and when they’re sitting around the dorm room; their friends are all saying things like “yeah, but what about that Florida game?”

It doesn’t work that way in the National Football League.

The lecture halls are inside the facility. There are no dorm rooms.

There’s just a focus on Sunday’s opponent.

That doesn’t mean a victory is guaranteed at Bank of America Stadium Sunday. The ball isn’t round. Lots of things can happen.

But if the Ravens were to lose Sunday, it wouldn’t happen because the Ravens were looking past the Panthers this week.

2. The AP’s David Ginsburg says secondary play remains ‘primary concern’ for Ravens

As I said before, I genuinely believe personnel to be the problem for the Ravens defensively.

For example, how much better do you think the secondary would be if Chuck Pagano had Tiffany Taylor to work with? (Thanks The Smoking Jacket!)

3. BaltimoreRavens.com’s Mike Duffy says Panthers haven’t decided between Tony Pike or Brian St. Pierre as starter

Not exactly Joe Montana or Steve Young, huh?

I feel like Tony Pike’s familiarity with the system makes him the better option; but then again-it’s Tony Pike.

More bad news for Carolina Wednesday, as the team was forced to place RB DeAngelo Williams (foot) on Injured Reserve. With Jonathan Stewart and Tyrell Sutton also banged up, expect Mike Goodson to start Sunday.

So…you know, the Panthers have that going for them.

4. National Football Post’s Aaron Wilson says Tom Zbikowski didn’t practice again; Tavares Gooden, Todd Heap and Fabian Washington were all limited

Before we move on from the Ravens, a few things…

-The Ravens will be back on the practice field today at 1 Winning Drive, with coordinators Cam Cameron, Greg Mattison and Jerry Rosburg scheduled to speak to the media following practice, as well as RB Ray Rice. Make sure you’re tuned in to AM1570 WNST, checking WNST.net and following us on Twitter (@WNST).

-Did you miss Ravens LB Sergio Kindle with Drew Forrester Thursday on “The Morning Reaction” on AM1570 WNST? Make sure you head over to the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault here at WNST.net today to check it out! Other things you can find in the Audio Vault include…

• Sean Salisbury (“Sean Unfiltered”-Voice America Sports Radio)-who went around the NFL with Drew Thursday
• Brett Adams (Mustangs Basketball Coach)-who discussed the “Pride of Maryland” DIII Tournament with Drew Thursday during the Stevenson Coaches’ Report
• Our Morning Reaction “Cheap Shots From The Bleachers” Thursday-as Drew took a shot at Andy MacPhail and Glenn Clark took a shot at Colin Cowherd
• Plenty of Audio From 1 Winning Drive Wednesday; including John Harbaugh, Joe Flacco, Josh Wilson, Ray Lewis, Derrick Mason and Jarret Johnson
• Larry McReynolds (NASCAR Analyst-Fox, SPEED)-who joined Rex Snider Wednesday on “The Afternoon Drive” to preview Sunday’s “Chase for the Cup” finale
• Clark Judge (CBSSports.com)-who went around the NFL with Rex Wednesday
• James Franklin (Maryland Offensive Coordinator/Head Coach in Waiting)-who joined Thyrl Nelson Wednesday for the “Terrapins Coaches’ Report”
• Heather Dinich (ESPN.com)-who went around ACC Football with Thyrl Wednesday on “The Mobtown Sports Beat”

Once again, it’s all in the Audio Vault. Make sure you head over there today to check it out!

5. MLB.com’s Brittany Ghiroli says Buck Showalter not a factor in American League Manager of the Year voting

And I think we’re all smart to enough to admit that because he only managed for a third of the season, he DIDN’T deserve the consideration. It of course doesn’t take away anything that he did for the Orioles this season.

You might not know this, but I get a Manager of the Year vote. It didn’t go to Ron Gardenhire OR Ron Washington. Instead, it went to Jodie Marsh. (Thanks Guyism!)

6. WNST.net’s Rex Snider wonders why Andy MacPhail didn’t go after Dan Uggla

Peter Schmuck addressed this in his blog yesterday. Dan Uggla wouldn’t have been a PERFECT fit for the O’s. They already have a second baseman in Brian Roberts, and there would be a learning curve for Dan Uggla should he be forced to move to third base. He’s also only under contract for one more year.

That being said, the O’s could ABSOLUTELY use his bat in their lineup.

Of course, the Birds could use ANY bat in the lineup. It won’t be Uggla, but there are other bats on the table.

I’ve already explained how I feel about Adam Dunn.

7. The Sun’s Kevin Cowherd says legendary trainer Mack Lewis to be remembered with Charm City viewing today

It will be a great regret in my life that I was never able to get to know Mack Lewis.

The man was an incredible example of exactly what makes our city great. Almost in the vein of Bea Gaddy.

He will be sorely missed, and I am VERY sad that I never had the opportunity to sit down and talk with him.

Today’s viewing is from 4-8pm at the Vaughn C. Greene Funeral Home on York Rd. The funeral is tomorrow at 11am at Gilliam Concert Hall at Morgan State’s Murphy Fine Arts Center.

8. The Diamondback’s Jeremy Schneider says Maryland finally expecting big crowd at Byrd Stadium for Florida State battle Saturday night

The attendance has been a MAJOR issue for the folks in College Park.

Frankly, the attendance has a lot to do with why new AD Kevin Anderson wouldn’t guarantee Ralph Friedgen’s future despite solid on field performance this season.

The team deserves a great turnout Saturday night for the battle with the Seminoles.

It ISN’T just a game with major ACC Championship Game implications. It’s actually an elimination game for the Terrapins. If they lose Saturday night, the NC State game the following week will be meaningless, as FSU will guarantee themselves a 6-2 conference finish.

It’s a big game. There SHOULD be a big crowd.

9. The AP says Dylon Cormier scored 20 points to lead Loyola past UMBC at Reitz Arena

Also worth noting that Jamal Barney dropped in 14 points and 10 rebounds for Jimmy Patsos’ Greyhounds in the win; while Travis King lead Randy Monroe’s Retrievers with 22 points in the loss.

Morgan State is an action tonight, as Todd Bozeman’s Bears get another great chance to knock off a major conference opponent when they visit Providence at 7pm. Providence is picked to finish at the bottom level of the Big East this season, and Bozeman already has a win over a Big East team at Morgan State, as he beat DePaul in Chicago two years ago.

And some NCAA Tournament soccer action tonight, as Pete Caringi’s UMBC Retrievers visit Princeton at 7pm.

10. UMTerps.com previews Terrapins’ tussle with Pitt tonight at Madison Square Garden

I’ll go Panthers 84, Terps 71.

I wish I felt better about it.

To soften the blow, here’s a picture of Kelly Carrington. (Thanks Next Round!)

And finally, I leave you with this.

I hope to see you out at the Down Under Restaurant at Fullerton Pub tonight. We’re trying to raise 1,570 canned goods this holiday season-so we need your help!

If you come out, we can BS about sports. Or food. Or beer. Or rock and roll. Or chicks. Or Pro Wrestling. If you approach me with a Chris Jericho-related question, it might earn you a beer.

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8SCpDUXEOsY[/youtube]

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

Having not won a road game in over two years, the Terrapins would take a victory any way they could get it entering Saturday’s meeting with Boston College in Chestnut Hill.

The Terps certainly didn’t make it easy on themselves, squandering a 17-point lead in the fourth quarter and needing a fourth-down stop of Boston College running back Montel Harris with 1:13 remaining to preserve a 24-21 victory, snapping a 10-game road losing streak. Maryland (5-2, 2-1 ACC) used an opportunistic 21-point first half and a patchwork offensive line to do just enough against a Boston College team that has now lost five straight games.

A pair of unlikely heroes were the difference as safety Antwine Perez secured three turnovers — two interceptions and a fumble recovery — that led to 14 points for a Maryland offense that managed just 222 yards for the afternoon.

The other story was center Paul Pinegar shifting to right tackle — due to the horrific accident suffered by starter Pete DeSouza late Thursday night — and helping stabilize an already porous offensive line. The unit protected quarterback Danny O’Brien against a stout Eagles defense, allowing the redshirt freshman to toss three touchdown passes to three different receivers in the first half.

The unsettling fourth quarter in which the Maryland defense allowed two touchdown runs by Harris would not spoil what coach Ralph Friedgen labeled a “character” win for the Terps, who had not won a road game since Sept. 27, 2008 when they beat Clemson 20-17 in Death Valley.

Offensively, the Terps struggled to move the ball with any consistency, rushing for just 40 yards on 32 attempts, but managed to play turnover-free, something they failed to do in last week’s loss at Clemson and for much of last season’s disastrous 2-10 campaign. O’Brien made throws when he needed to, accumulating 182 yards through the air on 40 attempts, and rebounded from his three-interception performance in Death Valley.

Whether Maryland is really that much improved from a year ago is debatable — a soft schedule has unquestionably helped the cause — but the Terps suddenly find themselves only a victory away from becoming bowl-eligible with a favorable matchup against Wake Forest in College Park next Saturday.

The program is still worlds away from where it needs to be with the unsettling future of Friedgen and offensive coordinator — and coach-in-waiting — James Franklin yet to be determined by new athletic director Kevin Anderson.

But at 5-2, the Terps have fared better than most expected they would to this point, and the play of the freshman quarterback O’Brien merits optimism for the future, if enough pieces can be recruited to protect him upfront.

Saturday’s performance wasn’t pretty, but a “character” win at Boston College is sure better than the alternative.

Check out the final box score right here.

Happy Wednesday!

It’s a Happy Wednesday for me because once again I get to name two new “Greatest Song(s) of All Time This Week.” The first addition is the “new” addition to the list…”Grenade” by Bruno Mars…he played it on Saturday Night Live and it kicked a little ass…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3kfkTJCv4j8[/youtube]

The “retro” version of TGSOATTW? It’s also Lesson 3 for “Boomer Sooner” as I prepare her for her first Dave Matthews Band show in November. It’s “#41″…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PEbb621s_GI[/youtube]

Let’s see what everyone has to say…

1. National Football Post’s Matt Bowen says Ravens, New York Jets, Pittsburgh Steelers all playing better football than any NFC team

At this point, that’s probably true.

My hunch tells me that the only NFC teams that could end up being TRUE Super Bowl contenders would be the New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons and New York Giants.

The Saints don’t look like Super Bowl contenders right now, but that’s mostly because they can’t run the ball. They’ll get Pierre Thomas and Reggie Bush back, and they should be able to run again. The Green Bay Packers can get back on that list should they figure out a way to run the ball-but I don’t see that happening if Brandon Jackson and John Kuhn are the primary backs.

The point is-those three aforementioned teams are the only teams that look like they can stand up next to the three premiere AFC teams-at least the three that have stood out thus far.

The good news for the Ravens is that as of right now-this season is shaping up to be a season about “balance.” In recent years, teams that have won have tended to have the most powerful offenses or simply the best quarterbacks.

Early on this year, the teams that have had the most success appear to be the teams that are the most balanced. If it remains that way, the Ravens should be in good shape.

Of course, we know damn well that things can change quickly in the NFL.

2. BaltimoreRavens.com’s John Eisenberg says 4-1 start doesn’t ‘guarantee’ anything for rest of season

Of course not. But if it guarantees that Jamie Edmondson takes more pictures in Ravens gear, than 4-1 was PLENTY WORTH IT! (Thanks SI with tip from Derek Arnold!)

3. Boston Globe’s Monique Walker says New England Patriots still remember AFC Wild Card playoff loss to Ravens last season

This was a topic I discussed yesterday during Ravens Reports on AM1570 WNST. There will almost definitely be some level of a “revenge” factor when it comes to the Patriots Sunday. Bill Belichick is a proud man. Tom Brady is a proud man. These are men who will CERTAINLY remember the embarrassing fashion in which they were dismissed at Gillette Stadium in January.

Does that mean that the Ravens will quickly run into a buzzsaw in Foxborough? Not necessarily. But do I think this Patriots team will look at this game with a bit more significance than other games? Sure.

Should I ask another question and follow it up with another quick answer? I think I’ve run the course.

4. Carroll County Times’ Aaron Wilson says John Harbaugh, Ravens concerned with Pats returner Brandon Tate

Before we move on from the on-field Ravens, a couple of things…

-Harbaugh apparently reiterated on his radio show last night that CB Josh Wilson’s hamstring injury is not a major concern. I say “apparently” because I didn’t listen to the show personally. How could I? The replay of “The Morning Reaction” was on WNST!

-The Ravens are back in action today at 1 Winning Drive in Owings Mills. We’ll be out there all day with full coverage; so make sure you’re tuned into AM1570, following us on Twitter (@WNST) and checking back in at WNST.net throughout the day. We’re expected to hear from Harbaugh, Joe Flacco and others before practice.

-And this picture of Ray Rice-which has been passed around Facebook over the last 24 hours (add me by searching “Glenn Clark” and adding the best looking person you find) is kinda awesome…

5. SI’s George Dohrmann says former Ravens OT Jonathan Ogden admitted accepting benefits from agent Josh Luchs while at UCLA

The funniest part of the story is Luchs saying that during an entire Janet Jackson concert, J.O. screamed “Janet!” at the stage. Of course, I might do the same thing if she was rocking out a little “All For You”…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2KabvvLF7M[/youtube]

For the record, Luchs maintains that he did NOT pay or give benefits to either Ravens TE Todd Heap or LB Terrell Suggs while he was working with Gary Wichard and pursuing them at Arizona State.

Did you miss Josh Luchs with Drew Forrester and Thyrl Nelson on “The Mobtown Sports Beat” Wednesday morning on AM1570 WNST? Make sure you head over to the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault here at WNST.net today to check it out. Some other things you can find in the Audio Vault include…

• Dabo Swinney (Clemson Football Coach)-who joined Drew Wednesday on “The Morning Reaction” to preview the Tigers’ contest with the Terrapins Saturday
• Craig Laughlin (Washington Capitals Color Analyst-Comcast SportsNet)-who joined Drew Wednesday to talk some Caps hockey
• AJ Daulerio (Deadspin Editor)-who joined Drew Wednesday to discuss the Brett Favre/Jenn Sterger controversy
• Ralph Cindrich (Long-time NFL agent)-who joined Drew Wednesday to offer his opinion on the Josh Luchs story
• Jon Anik (host of ESPN’s “MMA Live”)-who joined Thyrl and John Rallo Tuesday on “The MMA Report”
• Marcellus Wiley (ESPN)-who went around the NFL with Rex Snider Tuesday on “The Afternoon Drive”
• Dan Wetzel (Yahoo! Sports)-who discussed his new book “Death to the BCS” with Thyrl Tuesday

It’s all in the Audio Vault-so consider today planned. Again. Because I’m awesome like that. Again.

6. The Sun’s Jeff Zrebiec says Buck Showalter had surgery Tuesday in Texas, no decisions imminent for Orioles coaching staff

Impossible.

There’s no chance that human injuries could affect a superhuman like Buck Showalter enough that he required knee surgery. I refuse to believe it.

That being said, the handful of folks who are waiting for news about the Birds’ coaching staff will have to keep waiting. In the meantime, MASN passed along that the O’s are apparently interested in Seibu Lions SS Hiroyuki Nakajima.

And you didn’t think Andy MacPhail was going to make the moves necessary to win in 2011. I know you feel stupid now. Hiroyuki Nakajima, babe. What are the dates for the 2011 World Series???

7. Washington Post’s Eric Prisbell says Clemson coach Dabo Swinney prepared to face Maryland QB’s Jamarr Robinson, Danny O’Brien Saturday in Death Valley

Swinney told Drew Forrester this morning that having to prepare for both QB’s makes Maryland particularly tough. Maybe so, but I generally don’t think the Terps can win big games if they try to split reps between two quarterbacks.

They might not do that. They might end up having one real “starter” and a package for the other QB. But it’s totally possible that Robinson and O’Brien could alternate series in James Franklin’s offense. I would prefer the former.

I mean, I would prefer having one REALLY GOOD QB, but sometimes you just have to work with what you’ve got.

8. D1scourse’s Patrick Stevens says Terps coach Ralph Friedgen has good recent history at Clemson’s Memorial Stadium

I keep being reminded of Maryland’s win at Clemson two years ago. Maryland probably wasn’t quite as good as their record indicated, but they were able to hang around just long enough to let something goofy happen to help them win. I don’t THINK the same thing will happen Saturday, but it certainly could.

You know what else could happen? Kayla Collins could call me. I don’t THINK it will happen-but it certainly could. (Thanks The Smoking Jacket!)

9. Annapolis Capital’s Bill Wagner says Navy coach Ken Niumatalolo expects FB Alexander Teich to be able to start Saturday vs. SMU

And with Vince Murray banged up, the Midshipmen could certainly use Teich on the field; as the Mustangs can score points.

They’ve scored at least 21 points in all six of their games, including 35 against Washington State and 42 against Rice. They’re VERY capable of scoring points in the June Jones offense.

The Mids however have scored 14 points or less in three of their five games thus far. It looks like they’ll need to score to win Saturday at Navy-Marine Corps Stadium. It won’t be easy.

10. TowsonTigers.com says DT Yaky Ibia named semi-finalist for National Football Foundation’s William V. Campbell Trophy

This is very cool. Cool enough that even Maggie Q should be interested. (Thanks Guyism!)

And finally, I leave you with this…

I know everyone’s already seen it-but here’s the Grover/Sesame Street/Old Spice YouTube gem for the 5 or 6 of you that may have somehow missed…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zkd5dJIVjgM[/youtube]

Flexing my mic muscles since 1983…

-G

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Starting QB Jamarr Robinson (shoulder) was unable to practice at all. WR Tony Logan took the majority of snaps with the first team offense throughout the week.

As Head Coach Ralph Friedgen explained, the Maryland Terrapins were faced with quite a bit of “adversity” in the week leading up to Saturday’s game against the Florida International Panthers.

Redshirt freshman QB Danny O’Brien got the first start of his Terps career, and he made the most of it in leading the Terps (3-1) to a 42-28 win over Florida International (0-3) at Byrd Stadium.

It would be disingenuous to label the performance by O’Brien with some sort of overstated term like “brilliant” or “dazzling.” Instead, the performance would be best labeled as “effective.” Of course, “effective” was exactly what Friedgen and Offensive Coordinator James Franklin needed against a tricky Panthers defense that had put together a six sack, four interception performance at Texas A&M just a week earlier.

“Basically, we didn’t have a quarterback to practice with all week” said Friedgen. “(O’Brien) didn’t get many reps, and that’s always my concern. I was very impressed with his poise. He never got rattled. You’d think he’d at least be a little bit nervous, but I never got that from him.”

“We were trying to protect the quarterback, so we were trying to run the ball early” added Franklin. “That wasn’t as going as well as we would have liked, so the quick passing game was another way to move the ball and be able to protect the quarterback.”

They didn’t need “spectacular”, they just needed “effective.” They got it.

O’Brien finished the game a tidy 18-27 for 250 yards with two TD’s and no interceptions. His first touchdown pass to WR LaQuan Williams (Poly) was a particularly impressive nine yard fade to the back left corner of the south endzone. He also connected with WR Torrey Smith-the team’s top playmaker-eight times for 159 yards, including a 68 yard pitch and catch TD. He handled FIU pressure very well and effectively used his checkdown options instead of forcing passes into dangerous spots on the football field.

It was an especially effective performance for O’Brien considering how little Maryland was able to do on the ground in the game. Maryland finished the game with 169 net yards rushing, but all but 28 of them came on three big rushing TD plays. RB Da’Rel Scott broke off TD runs of 56 and 9 yards, while RB Davin Meggett capped scoring with a 76 yard TD scamper. But Maryland’s overall inability to establish a consistent running attack allowed FIU to hold a 34:05-25:55 advantage in time of possession and a 98-55 advantage in total offensive plays.

“I think it was a great team victory” said O’Brien. “I feel like I had a pretty good performance, (there were) a few plays I’d like back. We ran the ball and we protected great. I feel like everytime we do that, we have the receivers and running backs to beat everybody.

O’Brien got the start just a week after re-aggravating an ankle injury on his only snap in a 31-17 loss to the West Virginia Mountaineers at Milan Puskar Stadium in Morgantown. He said his ankle was “close to” 100%, and wasn’t a factor during the game. Franklin confirmed that Robinson would have been available in an emergency situation, but Friedgen said Logan (who returned a punt 85 yards for a TD in the 2nd quarter) would have been the team’s backup QB.

The only problem for Friedgen and the Terps’ staff is that the performance will do little to settle their overall QB picture. Robinson and O’Brien had both played in all three games before Saturday, but Robinson was the clear starter. In fact, O’Brien saw the field for just one snap in both the Navy and WVU games, with his only snap resulting in a fumble each time. It was only against the FCS-level Morgan State Bears than O’Brien saw significant playing time before getting the start in Saturday’s victory.

“I think both (Robinson and O’Brien) will end up still playing” said Friedgen. “I think both of them have strengths. I think if we’re smart we can utilize both of their talents and we should try to do that. I’ll know that a little bit more when I see what Jamarr’s condition is.”

While Friedgen is likely to continue to work both quarterbacks into games, fans throughout the Old Line State will undoubtedly spend the week leading up to next Saturday’s contest with Duke calling for Friedgen to go with O’Brien exclusively. Fans took to Facebook and Twitter throughout the game Saturday (although only 33,254 were announced in attendance at the game) to make such statements about the QB situation. That controversy is unlikely to die down as the Terrapins face an uphill battle with only ACC games remaining on the regular season schedule.

O’Brien certainly appears to have the mental makeup to be a winner. Friedgen praised O’Brien’s mental makeup after the game, saying “that’s what you need at the quarterback position. You need a guy that can make decisions, put you in the right play and give you a chance to be successful.”

O’Brien is also unquestionably talented, and did not appear rattled by a defense that entered the game with the 28th ranked defense in the nation despite playing their first two games against opponents from BCS automatic qualifying conferences (Rutgers, Texas A&M). That being said, the two solid performances from O’Brien this season have come in emotionally flat environments; as both the Morgan State win and Saturday’s win were played in front of less than full crowds in College Park.

O’Brien has never played against an ACC opponent of any sort, while Robinson started games against bowl-bound teams like Virginia Tech and Florida State last season. O’Brien hasn’t played in electric environment, while Robinson nearly beat the Seminoles in the last game Bobby Bowden would ever coach in Tallahassee. O’Brien is not a particularly mobile QB, while Robinson has already registered a 100 yard rushing game (against the Hokies) in his career.

There are benefits to playing both quarterbacks (if both are healthy), but there appears to be some real need for consistency and leadership at the QB position. Fellow backfield mate Scott said of O’Brien “he’s a very poised young person.”

Friedgen has always remained loyal to his upperclassmen, but perhaps in this instance he would be better served to stick with O’Brien. O’Brien appears to have the better combination of physical and mental skills to win, and Robinson could still be capable of entering games to throw opponents a different look. Maryland tried to employ a similar combo two seasons ago with starter Chris Turner and speedy Florida transfer Josh Portis, but Portis often came onto the field without understanding play calls.

Loyalty is admirable, but for a team that could attract only 35,000 fans on a beautiful day in the Mid-Atlantic area, winning is more important. Incoming Athletic Director Kevin Anderson isn’t likely to value loyalty at the end of the season the same way he would value wins and losses.

In this instance, sticking with the quarterback that stood up in the face of adversity is probably the best way to go.

-G

Hear from Friedgen, O’Brien, Franklin and Scott NOW in the BuyAToyota.com Audio Vault right here at WNST.net!