Maryland football struggles with defensive lapses amid four-game skid

Maryland football is currently enduring a four-game losing streak, highlighted by a 45-16 defeat against No. 5 Ohio State. A primary factor in the team's struggles has been the defense's inability to prevent explosive plays. During the loss to Ohio State, the Buckeyes recorded seven chunk plays for 243 yards, four of which resulted in touchdowns.

Head coach Mike Locksley has identified issues with leverage and eye control in the secondary as contributors to these defensive lapses. This pattern of allowing large gains has been consistent throughout the season, with the defense surrendering 34 chunk plays total.

In addition to defensive struggles, the team faces a challenging schedule, having played the 10th-hardest strength of schedule in the nation. Locksley has described the upcoming game against Rutgers as a critical “checkpoint” for the program as they head toward a bye week.