In preparing to head to Iowa for the Terps v Hawkeyes on Saturday – A few thoughts…
Iowa has always seemed to me to be a straight ahead, no nonsense football team. Now as their offense blooms a bit with a little more of an air game to go with the punishing ground attack, they look quite formidable.
I understand that the Iowa faithful are concerned about facing the Terps. From Iowa City, they look across the country to College Park and see an improved run game and a decent defense.
I am not sure that a 5-1 Iowa team ranked #19 should have that much to Fear from the Turtle. Maryland (as we all have seen) has trouble throwing the ball effectively. And if the defense gets stuck on the field, they can be worn down as the game goes on.
Most of the Terp fanbase would be happy enough with a 6-6 season. In most of the fan math, that includes wins at home vs. Illinois and on the road at Indiana. Those are the “must haves”.
On the other hand, if Maryland can get the passing game going, watch out. The Terps are ranked #38 and come in to the game 4-2. If somehow Maryland can get it done for the 5th win – well that would be really something.
A visit to Kinnick Stadium counts for crossing one off the bucket list. We will talk about that in the next column as game day approaches.