In a dramatic finish at SECU Stadium, the Maryland football team secured a thrilling 29-28 victory over USC on Saturday night. With just under two minutes left and USC leading by six points while attempting a field goal that could have sealed the game, linebacker Donnell Brown made a game-changing block. The deflected kick was returned into USC territory by Glen Miller, setting the stage for a stunning comeback.
Maryland swiftly capitalized, covering 47 yards in just five plays within 48 seconds, ultimately taking the lead with under a minute to go. Despite several errors throughout the match, the Terps held on to their slim advantage to clinch their first Big Ten win of the season.
Head coach Michael Locksley expressed pride in both his players and coaching staff, acknowledging their effective preparation and adaptability during the game. Early offensive struggles marked the contest, as both defenses shined initially, with USC and Maryland stalling each other’s opening drives effectively.
Locksley, calling plays for the second game, opted for a passing strategy early on, leading to minimal success in the Terps’ first half, where they managed only seven points. USC later responded and took the lead with a touchdown pass from quarterback Moss to wide receiver Kyron Hudson. Maryland’s inability to build on their first touchdown and missed opportunities, including a botched fourth down attempt, kept the game competitive.
The second half began poorly for Maryland, with a failure to convert on downs, but a key interception by Lavain Scruggs set up a quick touchdown that brought the Terps back into the game. Despite multiple challenges, including issues in the red zone leading to another interception, Maryland kept fighting.
The late-game action heightened the suspense when USC, down to the Terps’ 40-yard line and trying for a game-winning field goal with just seconds left, failed to convert a crucial fourth down. The victory prompted celebrations, with players and fans reveling in the long-awaited triumph.
Key highlights from the game included a remarkable one-handed catch by USC’s Ja’Kobi Lane, which will likely be among the best in college football this season, and standout performances from Maryland’s Octavian Smith, who achieved career highs in catches and receiving yards.
“It’s like a little slugfest,” Brown commented on the game’s intensity, highlighting the resilience displayed by the team. The Terps will look to build on this success as they progress further into the season.