Maryland and Nebraska gear up for a thrilling Big Ten showdown on October 11th at 3:30 p.m. EDT. The odds are stacked in favor of Nebraska, who currently hold a 6.5-point advantage according to BetMGM's opening line. But let's dive into the key statistics and uncover the story behind these numbers.
Offense vs. Defense
Nebraska Offense:
- The Cornhuskers are a force to be reckoned with on offense, averaging a robust 449.8 yards per game, ranking 29th in the FBS. Their passing attack shines with 320.6 yards per game, placing them 8th overall.
- However, their rushing game lags behind, managing only 129.2 yards per game, a 102nd-place ranking in the FBS.
Nebraska Defense:
- Nebraska's defense is a solid unit, conceding just 247.4 yards per game, 11th in the FBS. They excel in preventing passing touchdowns, allowing only 91.8 yards per game, the best in the nation.
- Yet, they struggle against the run, giving up 155.6 yards per game, a 87th-place ranking.
Maryland Offense:
- The Terrapins' offense is less potent, averaging 349.6 yards per game, 99th in the FBS. Their passing game is respectable at 256.4 yards per game, 50th overall.
- However, Maryland's rushing attack is a weakness, with just 93.2 yards per game, a 130th-place ranking.
Maryland Defense:
- Maryland's defense is a work in progress, allowing 318.4 yards per game, 41st in the FBS. They struggle against the pass, conceding 221.6 yards per game, 71st overall.
- On the bright side, they are strong against the run, giving up only 96.8 yards per game, 24th in the nation.
Third Down and Turnovers
- Both teams have their challenges on third down. Nebraska allows opponents to convert 21.9% of third downs, ranking 4th in the FBS. Maryland is close behind, conceding 28% of third downs, 14th in the nation.
- Turnovers are a key battleground. Nebraska boasts a +6 turnover margin, 10th in the FBS, while Maryland's +7 margin ranks 5th.
Penalties and Red Zone Battles
- Penalties are a concern for Maryland, averaging 58.8 penalty yards per game, 86th in the FBS, compared to Nebraska's 39.2 yards per game, 22nd in the nation.
- In the red zone, Nebraska struggles, scoring on only 81.5% of trips, 91st in the FBS. Maryland's defense shines here, allowing opponents to score on just 61.5% of red zone attempts, 3rd in the nation.
Time of Possession
- Maryland has the edge in time of possession, averaging 28:48, 90th in the FBS, compared to Nebraska's 31:58, 28th in the nation.
Team Leaders
Nebraska:
- Passing: Dylan Raiola, 1,333 yards, 12 TDs, 2 INTs, 74.2% completion rate
- Rushing: Emmett Johnson, 474 yards, 7 TDs
- Receiving: Jacory Barney Jr., 348 yards, 3 TDs
Maryland:
- Passing: Malik Washington, 1,257 yards, 9 TDs, 2 INTs, 60.1% completion rate
- Rushing: DeJuan Williams, 209 yards, 1 TD
- Receiving: Octavian Smith Jr., 324 yards, 0 TDs
Recent Performances
- Nebraska: The Cornhuskers dominated Michigan State, winning 38-27. Raiola threw for 194 yards and a touchdown, while Johnson rushed for 83 yards and three touchdowns.
- Maryland: The Terrapins suffered a close loss to Washington, 24-20. Washington threw for 219 yards and a touchdown, while Williams rushed for 26 yards and a touchdown.
The Road Ahead
- Nebraska travels to Minnesota on October 17th.
- Maryland hosts UCLA on October 18th.
This game promises to be a thrilling contest, with both teams showcasing their strengths and weaknesses. Will Nebraska's offense dominate, or will Maryland's defense rise to the occasion? The answers will be revealed on October 11th, as these teams battle for Big Ten supremacy.
