No. 2 Michigan Faces Maryland, Former Defensive Coordinator
The Associated Press
Maryland (5-3, 2-3 Big Ten) at No. 2 Michigan (8-0, 5-0, No. 3 CFP), 3:30 p.m. (ESPN)
WHAT'S AT STAKE
Michigan has reached its highest ranking in a decade, marching toward a matchup many are waiting for in three weeks at Ohio State. Getting upset before beating the Buckeyes would eliminate any chance the Wolverines have of making the playoff without winning the Big Ten. Maryland has an opportunity to become bowl-eligible with a stunning, signature win.
KEY MATCHUP
Maryland coach DJ Durkin against Michigan's high-scoring offense. The Terrapins' only potential edge in the game is Durkin, who was defensive coordinator for Michigan coach Jim Harbaugh last year. The Wolverines are averaging 46.6 points, ranking third in FBS, with eight players regularly running the ball when Wilton Speight isn't throwing to WRs Amara Darboh, Jehu Chesson or TE Jake Butt.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Maryland: QB Perry Hills. The senior has thrown 10 TDs and three INTs while completing a Big Ten-best 66.4 percent of his passes and leading the conference in passing efficiency. He has helped Maryland gain at least 75 yards on six of its last nine TD drives.
Michigan: K Kenny Allen. He has bounced back from getting benched and having to compete to keep his job as the team's kicker on field goals. Allen has made all five of field goal attempts the last two games after missing three straight. He also punts and kicks off for the Wolverines.
FACTS & FIGURES
Maryland won its last game at the Big House in 2014, rallying from a 16-9, fourth-quarter deficit to earn a 23-16 victory. ... Harbaugh's staff at Stanford included Andy Buh, who Durkin hired to be Maryland's defensive coordinator. ... Michigan is allowing 11.6 points per game, one of five defensive categories it leads FBS. ... Maryland defensive coordinator Andy Buh worked for Harbaugh at Stanford.
Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.
