Groundhog Day

Maryland ('98: 3-8, 1-7 ACC)

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Posted: Wednesday August 11, 1999 05:29 PM

The Plot

The theme in College Park is the same as it is every year at this time: gradual improvement. The Terps were 2-9 in Ron Vanderlinden's first season at the helm, and they improved to 3-8 last season. But that's not necessarily a sign of things to come. While the first two games of the season are winnable - Temple and Western Carolina - the remainder of the schedule is filled with games in which Maryland will be the underdog.

The Director

Ron Vanderlinden -- third season, 5-17 overall

Starring

QB Randall Jones - Became first true freshman to start at quarterback for Maryland last year.
DE Peter Timmins - A converted fullback, he led the team with 7 1/2 sacks last season.

Co-starring

WR Jemaine Arrington - Tiny receiver led team in receptions last season with 23.
LB Aaron Thompson - Terps move him around at linebacker to take advantage of his speed.
RB LaMont Jordan - Second-leading rusher in ACC last season with 908 yards.
CB Lewis Sanders - Returns to anchor secondary after missing season with shoulder injury.

And introducing

LB E.J. Henderson - Redshirt freshman will be asked to step right into depleted linebacker corps.

Why it will work

Maryland should get some confidence with two wins to start the season.

Why it won't

Confidence can't make up for a lack of talent. This team could go through the ACC schedule without a win.

Our critics' review:

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