Gridiron Showdown: IU Football Faces Off Against Maryland in Week 5 of 2024 Season
As the college football season looms closer, we delve into Indiana University’s 2024 schedule, dissecting each of their 12 opponents in preparation for what lies ahead.
Indiana University kicks off their main Big Ten schedule in week five against Maryland. Under the leadership of head coach Mike Locksley, now entering his sixth season in College Park, the Terrapin program has experienced a significant turnaround. After a couple of rebuilding years, Maryland has strung together three consecutive winning seasons, establishing a foundation of consistency heading into 2024.
Opponent: Maryland
Date/Time/TV: Saturday, September 28, TBA
Location: Memorial Stadium, Bloomington, Ind.
2023 record/postseason result: 8-5, 4-5 Big Ten, 31-13 win over Auburn in the Music City Bowl
Returning production, offense: 36 percent (per Bill Connelly/ESPN) (123rd in the country)
Offensive Outlook: Maryland’s success in 2023 was largely fueled by a potent passing game, leading the Big Ten and ranking 22nd nationally with an average of 278.9 passing yards per game. However, with the departure of quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa, the dynamics of their air attack will inevitably shift. Redshirt junior Billy Edwards Jr., who gained valuable experience over his first two seasons, is vying for the starting quarterback position. Competing with him is NC State transfer MJ Morris, adding depth and competition to the lineup. Despite these changes, Maryland boasts returning offensive weapons like redshirt junior running back Roman Hemby, who has been a consistent force in their ground game. Hemby, who led Maryland in rushing last season with 680 yards and contributed significantly in the passing game, remains a pivotal figure. Senior receivers Tai Felton and Kaden Prather, who combined for over 1,300 receiving yards and 11 touchdowns last season, are expected to anchor the receiving corps.
The offensive line, however, faces significant turnover, with only two starters returning from last year. Redshirt juniors Kyle Long and Conor Fagan bring experience to the line, but other positions may be filled by newer faces such as transfer Josh Kaltenberger and young talents like Aliou Bah and Alan Herron.
Returning production, defense: 66 percent (per Bill Connelly/ESPN) (42nd in the country)
Defensive Outlook: Defensively, Maryland enters 2024 with a more stable lineup, boasting a return rate of 66 percent, placing them 42nd nationally. Despite not leading the Big Ten in defensive returns, Maryland performed credibly in 2023, finishing seventh in the conference and 31st nationwide in total defense, allowing 334.1 yards per game. Their defense proved balanced against both the run and the pass, ranking sixth in the Big Ten in rush defense and seventh in pass defense. The Terps were also formidable in forcing turnovers, tying for second in the conference with 24 takeaways. Key returning players include redshirt senior middle linebacker Ruben Hyppolite II and senior safety Dante Trader Jr., who ranked among the team’s top tacklers last season. Junior linebacker Kellan Wyatt, a disruptive force with 6.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks in 2023, adds further strength to the defensive core. Defensive linemen Tommy Akingbesote and Quashon Fuller, alongside pass rusher Donnell Brown, bring experience and skill to the front line, promising a robust defensive performance for the Terps.
Special Teams Outlook: In special teams, Maryland retains redshirt junior kicker Jack Howes, who aims to rebound after a challenging 2023 season. Howes, who connected on 68.4 percent of his field-goal attempts last year, looks to improve his accuracy. The departure of punter Colton Spangler opens an opportunity for redshirt junior Brenden Segovia to step into the role. Sophomore kickoff returner Braeden Wisloski, averaging 23.8 yards per return with one touchdown last season, returns to boost Maryland’s special teams unit.
Overall Outlook: Maryland enters the 2024 season with a solid roster and established continuity under Coach Locksley’s tenure. The quarterback transition will be critical, with Edwards and Morris competing to fill Tagovailoa’s shoes. The Terps’ offensive success hinges on their ability to maintain efficiency despite changes in personnel, particularly along the offensive line. Defensively, Maryland’s returning talent provides a sturdy foundation, although depth and new contributors will need to step up to fill any gaps left by departing players. Special teams, while undergoing some changes, retains key contributors who aim to contribute to Maryland’s overall performance.
While not considered top contenders for the Big Ten title, Maryland’s consistent improvement suggests they will be competitive once again in 2024. A fourth consecutive bowl appearance appears within reach if they can navigate the challenges of a competitive conference schedule and integrate new talent effectively across all units.