Maryland Terrapins Extend Winning Streak with 20-9 Victory over Northern Illinois

The Maryland Terrapins improved to 2-0 on the season with a 20-9 victory over Northern Illinois on Friday, extending the nation's longest non-conference winning streak to 17 games.

Head coach Mike Locksley emphasized that the team's early success should not be taken for granted as they continue to develop. "We definitely have to acknowledge that we've been able to handle the first two opportunities and get out with wins while still being able to grow, learn, and mature as a team," Locksley said.

The Terrapins demonstrated notable discipline improvements following a rough start in their season opener, reducing penalties from 16 to just three against Northern Illinois.

Coach Locksley and quarterback Malik Washington discussed the team's growth prospects ahead of their upcoming game against Towson. Locksley highlighted the players' buy-in and the importance of maintaining a high standard: "Good teams don't beat themselves. We played a lot cleaner as a young team to be able to get that corrected in a one-week window shows me that they're listening to us as coaches."

True freshman quarterback Malik Washington has made a remarkable transition to college football, leading all FBS true freshmen with 512 passing yards and five touchdowns through two games. Washington stressed the importance of maximizing every opportunity: "Really just capitalizing on every possession. Sometimes it gets hard, but taking advantage of every red zone opportunity is crucial as we prepare for conference play starting September 20."

The Terrapins are set to face Towson in their final non-conference game before entering Big Ten play. Coach Locksley expressed personal connection and respect for Towson, his alma mater: "Towson on deck is my alma mater, a place I have an affinity for. It's because of Towson I am able to stand here before you. I have a lot of respect for coach Pete Shinnick, the Towson program, and the many fond memories I have from my days as a Tiger. He's a winning coach who has built programs and has the team heading in the right direction."

The game is scheduled for Saturday at 1:20 p.m. at SECU Stadium.

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