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4 clusters · 6 sources · 37 days · First seen · Last updated

Maryland Terrapins football program turnaround efforts

Overview

The University of Maryland football program has begun its 2026 season attempt at a turnaround following two consecutive 4-8 seasons. Head coach Michael Locksley enters his eighth season under pressure to improve consistency, despite the program holding an 18-game nonconference winning streak.

Key returning talent includes quarterback Malik Washington, who previously became one of only two Big Ten true freshmen since 1996 to record over 2,500 passing yards and 300 rushing yards. Other notable returnees include running back DeJuan Williams, tight end Dorian Fleming, linebacker Daniel Wingate, and edge rusher Sidney Stewart. The program has also added new offensive coordinator Clint Trickett.

Maryland opened the season with a 62-0 victory over Hampton, marking the team’s first win since September 2025. Washington completed 19 of 31 passes for 186 yards and one touchdown during the shutout. Beyond his statistical performance, Washington has adopted a new leadership role, emphasizing a “championship mindset” and demonstrating physical commitment, such as acting as a lead blocker for receiver Chris Durr Jr.

While the team returns 71% of its production, the roster includes 16 transfer portal players. The program continues to manage transitions in the wide receiver unit, where only 37.8% of production returned. As the Terrapins move into Big Ten play, they face a schedule that includes three AP Top 25 opponents, though they avoid matchups against Oregon, Indiana, or Michigan.

Entities

Maryland Terrapins · Malik Washington · Mike Locksley · DeJuan Williams · Big Ten

Timeline

  1. 3 days ago

    [SPORTS] 3 sources
    Malik Washington leads Maryland to 62-0 victory over Hampton

    Maryland quarterback Malik Washington led the Terrapins to a 62-0 win over Hampton, emphasizing new leadership and a “championship mindset” to improve upon last season's 4-8 record.

  2. 23 days ago

    [SPORTS] 2 sources
    Maryland Terrapins football prepares for 2026 season

    Maryland football enters the 2026 season with 71% returning production, focusing on rebuilding its wide receiver room through transfer portal additions and developing depth in the trenches.

  3. 25 days ago

    [SPORTS] 2 sources
    Maryland football coach Michael Locksley faces pressure

    Maryland head coach Michael Locksley faces pressure heading into his eighth season following two losing seasons, relying on returning quarterback Malik Washington to lead the Terrapins.

  4. about 1 month ago

    [SPORTS] 2 sources
    Maryland Terrapins aim for turnaround in 2026‑27 football season

    Maryland football targets a 2026‑27 turnaround under coach Mike Locksley, with AD Jim Smith’s backing, new recruit Zion Elee, and a focus on revamping a struggling run game led by DeJuan Williams.

Sources

newsday.com · si.com · sportsspectrum.com · testudotimes.com · wmucsports.net · wtop.com

This summary has been updated 2 times: see revision history