Maryland Football: 5 Breakout Candidates for 2015
4. WR Taivon Jacobs, Sophomore
Nov 1, 2014; University Park, PA, USA; Maryland Terrapins wide receivers Jacquille Veii (center) and Stefon Diggs (right) celebrate following the game against the Penn State Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium. Maryland defeated Penn State 20-19. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
I’m sure Jacobs didn’t expect to be as important to the Terps this season as he likely will be. But circumstances beyond his control decided otherwise. Maryland lost five of their top nine receivers from last season, including big-time playmakers like Stefon Diggs and Deon Long.
Taivon’s older brother, Levern Jacobs figures to be the team’s No. 1 option at wideout this year, but Taivon has the potential to be an even better player in the long run. Jacobs was rated as a 3-star prospect by 247Sports and a 4-star prospect by ESPN. He amassed over 1,000 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns as a senior in high school.
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Jacobs redshirted his first season, then in the season opener of the following season, he suffered a season-ending injury. So it’s safe to say that Terps fans have yet to see what Jacobs can really do. Barring another injury, they’ll see it this season. Jacobs is in competition for one of the starting receiver spots.
A former track star, Jacobs has the speed to make him a legitimate deep threat for Maryland. With his quickness, he should also excel on screen plays and quick slants. It’s wouldn’t be surprising to see some plays specifically drawn up for him.