Maryland football is desperately seeking its first victory in nearly two months as the team prepares to face Illinois. With the Terps currently on a five-game losing streak, there is increasing pressure on head coach Michael Locksley, whose job security has come under scrutiny.
As Maryland (4-5, 1-5 Big Ten) gears up for the matchup against Illinois (6-3, 3-3), the last win for the Terps came on September 20, when they defeated Wisconsin 27-10. The players recognize that their performance could indirectly influence Locksley”s future with the program.
During a media session, freshman quarterback Malik Washington emphasized the importance of playing for their teammates and the entire program. “I think we”re playing for everybody in the building,” he stated. “Nobody likes to feel this type of way after losing five straight. You”re playing for the senior guys. This is their last chance, their last opportunity.”
Redshirt junior safety Lavain Scruggs echoed Washington”s sentiments, noting that the team is focused on their upcoming game rather than external pressures. “Whatever”s going on outside, we”re not really worried about that. We”re worried about doing our job,” he said.
The mounting pressure on Locksley, whose five-game losing streak is among the longest of his tenure, has not deterred the players. Despite recent setbacks, including a 35-20 loss to Rutgers, they continue to support their coach. Senior safety Jalen Huskey and redshirt senior left guard Isaiah Wright have previously voiced their commitment to fighting for Locksley, a sentiment Washington and Scruggs reaffirmed.
Locksley, however, expressed discomfort with the players feeling the need to publicly defend him. “I don”t like that,” he remarked. “I”m a big boy. I”ve been a big boy a long time. I”ve done a lot harder things in my life than deal with a five-game losing streak.” He added that the players” support is meaningful, indicating a positive impact on their lives.
Washington noted that Locksley wants the players to concentrate on their performance rather than external opinions. “We really just want to focus on being able to play for the person next to you,” he explained.
Despite the challenges, the atmosphere within the team remains optimistic. Players have continued to motivate each other, with Washington describing a supportive environment during workouts. “The vibes have not changed at all,” Scruggs said. “We”re still the same team because we built this brotherhood, and this brotherhood is very, very strong.” He also mentioned the eagerness to achieve a winning record.
Maryland still has a chance to become bowl eligible for the fourth time in five years if they can secure two victories in their last three games. Their schedule includes crucial matchups against Michigan and Michigan State after facing Illinois.
Locksley emphasized the importance of seizing opportunities, stating, “It”s to take advantage of the next opportunity. Those practices are invaluable.” He reiterated the team”s primary goal of returning to the winning column this week.
Ultimately, the Terps aim to focus on their game against Illinois rather than the external noise surrounding their program. “We understand that it”s really just the people in the building that matter,” Washington said. “And now it”s, continue to work for those same people that have worked with you this whole time.” With their backs against the wall, the Terps are determined to turn their season around.
