Maryland Terrapins vs Penn State: Recap and Game Balls

There is nothing better in football than a close, hard fought game, and that’s exactly what we got as the Maryland Terrapins defeated Penn State 20-19.

This game had fireworks before it even began. Those of you who tuned in saw a very interesting standoff at the coin toss as Penn State players extended their hands for the usual good luck handshakes and the Terps refused.

Ouch. And a shout out to fellow Wire writer Anthony Brown for his piece on the potential rivalry between two teams brewing. You should all check that out.

It was unsportsmanlike, but the real crime was the 15-yard penalty that resulted from it. Maybe I overlooked something, but last I checked there is no rule stating players must shake hands before the game. A ridiculous penalty to say the least.

Offensively for the Terps and Penn State it was a rather sloppy game, as both teams gave up a combined total of three turnovers and five sacks. Maryland scored once the entire first half, but the defense played well, as they held Penn to all field goals. The Terps couldn’t seem to find their rhythm offensively the first half, as Stefon Diggs had zero receptions in the first half.

The second half proved to be much more exciting, as both teams made their respective adjustments. Both teams trading blow for blow, the game saw five lead changes. Penn State saw its first touchdown with a grab from receiver Jesse James in the third quarter, though it would be the last time in the game they would find the end zone.

Down two points late in the fourth quarter, Terps quarterback C.J. Brown orchestrated perhaps his best drive yet as he got the offense to the 33-yard line, giving Maryland one last chance to win. A 43-yard field goal with 51 seconds left in regulation put the Terps up 20-19, closing the door on Penn State.

I can think of two players who deserve the game ball: defensive end Andre Monroe and kicker Brad Craddock. Monroe was the star of the Terps’ defense, as he was relentless in pressuring Penn State quarterback Christian Hackenberg, recording two sacks. Brad Craddock made two clutch field goals in the fourth quarter, including the 43 yard game winner.

Numerous improvements are needed to this Maryland Terrapins team before they can ascend to the upper echelon of the Big Ten. Nonetheless, the boys did a great job in a much needed, hard fought victory. With it, we now see our Terps bowl eligible.