Stefon Diggs Absence Having Big Impact on Maryland Terps
It’s no secret that Junior wide receiver Stefon Diggs is an integral part of the Maryland Terrapins offense. He plays at a high level game in and game out in addition to showing flashes of brilliance with his play-making ability.
While he is not the only source of offense that the Terps have, it was very clear in the 37-15 loss to Michigan State this past Saturday that they lost a big chunk of production with Diggs sidelined. They were unable to get the ball moving, having to punt on nearly every possession with the exception of the two touchdowns scored and their turnovers.
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Fans and analysts alike were full of opinions on Diggs’ suspension because of the fight before the Penn State game and contact he had with a referee.
Then, during the bye, reports surfaced that he suffered a lacerated kidney. According to CSN Baltimore‘s Daniel Martin, Diggs is listed as a starter on Maryland’s depth chart at wide receiver for their game this Saturday in Ann Arbor against the Michigan Wolverines at “The Big House.” He returns as backup kick returner on special teams as well.
Martin did say the depth chart isn’t necessarily an indication that Diggs will play. If he does play, Diggs may be able to be effective in the game against Michigan, but Head Coach Randy Edsall will probably monitor his snaps, given his lacerated kidney injury.
In addition to Edsall and his monitoring, Diggs as the player, has to know his body and what he can take and can’t take. Players want to play every snap no matter what, but Diggs has to be smart and realize the aformentioned injury will be a limiting factor.
If Diggs is able to come out and play lights out, then the Terps will definitely benefit from him being on the field because his impact is indeed enormous. What will be interesting to see though, is how they ease Diggs back into the flow of the offense. Whether it’s through bubble screens on the outside, quick slants, or they just let loose and throw the deep ball to him and allow him to make big plays down field.
Whatever happens, I’m sure whenever he returns, his production will be critical and players, fans and coaches alike will be glad that he is back out there.