Texas vs. Maryland: 3 bold predictions for Week 1 matchup

2. Malik Jefferson will have a huge game

Another key piece to the last bold prediction is the emergence of Texas Longhorns linebacker Malik Jefferson as the next big star. Jefferson made nine starts in 2016 and appeared in 11 games for the Longhorns last season.

He was a second team All-Big 12 selection by the Associated Press last season after recording 60 tackles, 9.0 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, two pass breakups and a forced fumble. He’s got 18 career starts in 22 appearances to his name and under a new head coach, should blossom into a star on defense.

Jefferson showed flashes of stardom in 2015 as a freshman. He was selected as Big 12 Defensive Freshman of the Year that season. One of his highlights was returning a fumble 26 yards for a touchdown.

As a selection on this year’s Bednarik Award watch list for College Football’s Defensive Player of the Year award, look for Jefferson to put up big numbers in this one. The defense returns 10 starters and with Jefferson having the potential to be the leader.

He should have a big game here, or expect the Terrapins to linger around for a majority of the game.