Maryland football: 3 bold predictions vs. Indiana in Week 5

Sep 15, 2023; College Park, Maryland, USA; Maryland Terrapins quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa (3) during the second quarter against the Virginia Cavaliers at SECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 15, 2023; College Park, Maryland, USA; Maryland Terrapins quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa (3) during the second quarter against the Virginia Cavaliers at SECU Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Reggie Hildred-USA TODAY Sports /
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Dec 30, 2022; Charlotte, NC, USA; Maryland Terrapins pose with the championship trophy after Maryland wins the 2022 Duke’s Mayo Bowl at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 30, 2022; Charlotte, NC, USA; Maryland Terrapins pose with the championship trophy after Maryland wins the 2022 Duke’s Mayo Bowl at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Bob Donnan-USA TODAY Sports /

2. The Maryland defense continues to step up

Under Mike Locksley, Maryland has consistently been one of the best offensive units in the Big Ten. However, a weak defense has prevented this program from taking the next step.

This season, the Terrapins have seen a remarkable improvement on defense, giving up only 12.2 points per game. Against Michigan State, the Maryland defense forced five turnovers, including three interceptions.

Indiana is going to have a hard time moving the football against this Maryland defense and expect them to force Jackson to make a mistake early on to set the tone in this one.

If the Terrapins continue their strong defensive play, then they will continue to be a tough out in the Big Ten East. The game in Columbus against Ohio State will be the first test for this unit, but this is definitely Locksley’s best defense in his Maryland tenure.