Maryland head coach Matt Canada spoke on Tuesday’s Big Ten coaches teleconference. The Terrapins have the Buckeyes on Saturday, so Canada spent some time answering questions about the stiff test that OSU will pose for his team. This is also an opportunity for Maryland to see where they stand as compared to Ohio State. Here are the highlights of what Canada had to say.
+ The Terps are coming off of a hard loss to Indiana this past week. Ohio State presents a difficult challenge on Senior Day.
+ Transfer linebacker Tre Watson is a leader by nature and leads the defense despite only being at Maryland for a short time. He’s around the football and is one of those guys who can always find the ball.
+ Asked about OSU linebacker Malik Harrison, Canada said he thinks all of the linebackers stand out. “I think they’re all very good players.” This is going to be a challenge to move the football and scoring points will be necessary with Ohio State’s offense playing as well.
+ Quarterback Tyrrell Pigrome gives Maryland a running threat with starter Kasim Hill out. Pigrome can throw it as well and has experience, so he’ll do a good job and his teammates respond to him.
+ The team has done a great job this year of supporting each other and remaining together despite the challenges they have had this year.
+ Despite the challenge on Saturday, they are focused on one day at a time and they are only ever focused on the next game. They have tremendous respect for Ohio State. “Not everybody gets the opportunity to play a ranked opponent.” Maryland is fortunate to have that this weekend.
+ Bowl practices would be huge for the program and the young players. They are at five wins right now and an opportunity to play a 13th game is a great opportunity. There are really, really good young players at Maryland, so they could use the practice, but it would also be nice to reward the seniors.
+ The trenches are going to be a big test. Canada’s not sure anybody has handled Ohio State up front yet this year. OSU always has talent up front and they bring players in every year. That’s what every program needs — constant recruiting success.
+ Dwayne Haskins is a tremendous football player and a great leader. Much respect for him and what he is doing for Ohio State.
