Maryland Football: 3 takeaways from blowout of No. 21 Syracuse

2. Josh Jackson blew up as well for the Maryland offense

Maryland has struggled with quarterback issues over the past few years, but it feels like they have finally figured out the position thanks to the graduate transfer market. Bringing in former Virginia Tech starter Josh Jackson — who sat out the bulk of the 2018 season while recovering from a fractured left fibula sustained early in the year against Old Dominion — proved to be one of the best pickups of the offseason.

In the first half against the Orange, Jackson went off as he led the Terrapins to a 42-13 lead. Jackson went 17-of-28 through the air for 277 yards and three passing scores. He found Tyler Mabry for a seven-yard strike, Carlos Carriere from 15 yards out, and Anthony McFarland for a six-yard strike in the final minute of the second quarter.

Though he didn’t look quite as sharp at the start of the second half, Jackson continued to pilot the Terrapins offense far more competently than they have enjoyed in recent years. By the end of the game, he had thrown for 296 yards and the three touchdowns on 21-of-38 passing. He did make a key mistake deep in his own territory, tossing a pick, but the defense bailed him out and forced a turnover on downs.

As long as he stays healthy, Jackson brings an element at quarterback that has been lacking in recent seasons in College Park. He provides a threat that forces defenses to stay honest and allows all aspects of the offense to thrive.