Penn State versus Maryland: Predictions

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EAST LANSING, MI – NOVEMBER 04: Head coach James Franklin of the Penn State Nittany Lions reacts to a first half play while playing the Michigan State Spartans at Spartan Stadium on November 4, 2017 in East Lansing, Michigan. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) /

Marty Leap, Contributor

There is no team in the FBS with more quarterback issues than Maryland. Due to injuries, the Terps have dipped as low as fifth on their depth chart at the position and give many reps to a former walk-on. This bodes very well for a Penn State secondary that has struggled in recent weeks, especially since it helps to negate Maryland WR D.J. Moore who will play on Sundays.

The Terps have a nice set of running backs, however, due to their lack of a passing threat the Nittany Lions should be able to put eight or nine in the box to counter the running game all day long on Saturday.

Maryland’s defense has been a mess in both year under D.J. Durkin and defensive coordinator Andy Buh. Look for this to continue on Saturday, as Saquon Barkley goes for 200+ yards of offense for a second consecutive week. Trace McSorley and the passing attack should also be able to exploit Maryland’s secondary.

Even before being decimated by injury at quarterback, Maryland was an average football team. Factor in these injuries and you get what the Terps are – a 4-7 team. Saturday will be Maryland’s Super Bowl. They’re at home, not going to a bowl,

and Penn State is the biggest game on their schedule every season. Maryland will come out inspire and may give Penn State fits for a quarter or two, but in the end the Nittany Lions have too much and finish the regular season 10-2.

Penn State 42
Maryland 17

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