Maryland not suited for Big Ten

Oct 4, 2014; College Park, MD, USA; Maryland Terrapins quarterback C.J. Brown (16) scrambles away from Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Joshua Perry (37) at Byrd Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mitch Stringer-USA TODAY Sports

The Maryland Terrapins faced Ohio State in their Big Ten home opener on Saturday, and it did not go well. The Terps were pounded 52-24, and were never really in the game.

This was Maryland’s first true test in their new conference. They faced a weak Indiana team in their first Big Ten game last week, and handled them easily. Ohio State has long dominated the Big Ten, and introduced Maryland to a new style of football.

The ACC is a fast-paced, high scoring conference that embraces speed and athleticism. With playmakers like quarterback C.J. Brown and wide receiver Stefon Diggs, Maryland was perfectly suited for the conference.

The Big Ten is a different story. While there are plenty of exciting players, the style of play centers on size and physicality.

This will be Maryland’s most difficult challenge. They are vastly undersized compared to the elite teams in the conference.

The disparity on Saturday was clearly apparent. Maryland’s offensive line averages 6’4’’ and 293 pounds, while Ohio State’s offensive line averages 6’4’’ and 302 pounds. Maryland managed just 66 rushing yards on 24 carries, as opposed to 269 rushing yards on 53 carries for Ohio State.

Maryland is off to a solid 4-2 start, but could struggle as they get into their Big Ten schedule. The Terps will take on Iowa at home after an idle week.