Yet Again...

[RFisthaMan]

I don't even care how this game ends. I do, but once again, this is a pathetic, horseshi** effort by Maryland. Florida State is not beating the Terps, the Terps are beating themselves.

This is the story of the year. The Atlantic Division is in the hands of the Terrapins, and they continue to blow it. Whether its the coaching or the players, I'm not sure.

Did they lose heart after seeing BC win today? Why can't they take a page from those guys, and make something happen? It's embarrassing to pull for a team that doesn't seem to give a damn. They play up to their competition- I'd kill for a season where the players give a damn about the W, not just whether or not the team they're playing has a national ranking.

I'm embarrassed for this season- the Atlantic Conference was theirs for the taking. If they win, phenominal- I'm always a Terp fan. But this should have been locked up already. Not up in the air and playing like garbage against Florida State. Again.

[RFisthaMan]

Absolutely pathetic. This game is over. F Maryland.

[Tony-OH]

As long as Maryland continues to play a medioce at best QB they will continue to have efforts like this. Face it, this team is lucky to be where they are and have overachieved. Tell you what though, this team has an amazing ability to look bad on ESPN games.

[BaltimoreTerp]

I hope everyone is remembering earlier in the season when there was so much insanity as to why on earth Coach Friedgen was going to start Steffy over Turner, and the explanations about motivation in practice. I know I was one of them, and I can see why.

Turner just isn't the guy we need in this position.

[RFisthaMan]

As long as Maryland continues to play a medioce at best QB they will continue to have efforts like this. Face it, this team is lucky to be where they are and have overachieved. Tell you what though, this team has an amazing ability to look bad on ESPN games.

Honestly tho, has this team overacheived? Underacheived? Been exactly what we could have hoped for? They dominate ranked teams, suck against terrible teams... What identity does this team have? The ACC is in its grasp.


I'm a year outside of being a student, maybe I'm just too attached- I feel as close to the team as I do to the Ravens, with the Orioles slightly ahead. I just hate myself for allowing my mind to think the Terps could actually make it to the ACC Championship.... Win the ACC Championship... Win the Orange Bowl... This game is just another kick in the balls. I'm tired of seeing it, year, after year, after year....

[RFisthaMan]

I hope everyone is remembering earlier in the season when there was so much insanity as to why on earth Coach Friedgen was going to start Steffy over Turner, and the explanations about motivation in practice. I know I was one of them, and I can see why.

Turner just isn't the guy we need in this position.

You're right. And I'm one of the guys who was on Turner's side over Steffy's. Unfortunately I was wrong. I'm not saying Steffy would have done any better than Turner tonight. But he couldn't have been worse.



I stand corrected.

[BaltimoreTerp]

You're right. And I'm one of the guys who was on Turner's side over Steffy's. Unfortunately I was wrong. I'm not saying Steffy would have done any better than Turner tonight. But he couldn't have been worse.



I stand corrected.

Me too. I surely didn't want to see Steffy start over Turner, though I am very close to start calling for him tonight.

[RFisthaMan]

Me too. I surely didn't want to see Steffy start over Turner, though I am very close to start calling for him tonight.

Steffy can't be any worse. This is a pathetic showing by the Terps. All day I've been waiting for this game. And Turner is just showing why he belongs in the NCAA...


As a backup.

[OregonBird]

If you don't have talent, you must have the coaching to make these kids play tough. The problem is that they don't have talent OR coaching.

Every time they get a chance to make a statement, they get beat up.

This team is exactly what their record says they are. The good wins are offset by the terrible losses. Net, net, they are slightly better than the Dukes and NC States of the ACC.

[RFisthaMan]

If you don't have talent, you must have the coaching to make these kids play tough. The problem is that they don't have talent OR coaching.

Every time they get a chance to make a statement, they get beat up.

This team is exactly what their record says they are. The good wins are offset by the terrible losses. Net, net, they are slightly better than the Dukes and NC States of the ACC.

I gave you rep agreeing with what you said, however....


This team HAS the talent. While the Terps are no USC or Alabama, the talent is there. With the right coaching, this team has the Atlantic Conference locked up.

I love Fridge for making the Terps relevant. But he hasn't been able to coach them to the next step.

This season will be remembered for what could have been, instead of what happened.

[BaltimoreTerp]

If you don't have talent, you must have the coaching to make these kids play tough. The problem is that they don't have talent OR coaching.

Every time they get a chance to make a statement, they get beat up.

This team is exactly what their record says they are. The good wins are offset by the terrible losses. Net, net, they are slightly better than the Dukes and NC States of the ACC.

Well, last time I checked we have the second-best conference record (and if we lose we'll still be tied for second), and the second-best overall record in the conference (same as above if we lose). So, what DOES our record say? Other than being three games better than Duke and two over NC State (slightly more than "slightly better").

[OregonBird]

I gave you rep agreeing with what you said, however....


This team HAS the talent. While the Terps are no USC or Alabama, the talent is there. With the right coaching, this team has the Atlantic Conference locked up.

I love Fridge for making the Terps relevant. But he hasn't been able to coach them to the next step.

This season will be remembered for what could have been, instead of what happened.

Is there talent there? Really? How do you know? I'm a member of TT Times and just b/c a guy paid by rivals gets on there and says so and so was a "4 star" recruit, etc, doesn't mean there is talent. HS exploits mean nothing to me, I want to see it on the field.

I know there is talent on the team. Heyward Bey, Scott, Meggett, Gronkowski, there are some talented guys on the team. However, I don't think there is as much as people think. Click over to the Texas Tech/OK game, or even the Cincy/Pitt game. There are guys over on either of those games that are playing much faster than the Terps.

[OregonBird]

Well, last time I checked we have the second-best conference record (and if we lose we'll still be tied for second), and the second-best overall record in the conference (same as above if we lose). So, what DOES our record say? Other than being three games better than Duke and two over NC State (slightly more than "slightly better").

It says that after this game this team is a 7 win team, maybe 8. Better than UNC, NC State, perhaps better than Duke (don't know cause we didn't play them) but not better than teams expected to be the upper echelon of the ACC (FSU, Miami, VaTech). I'll even put BC up there since they always seem to do well without getting much hype.

I should have clarified my position that we're basically "second tier" status. Basically, we're "average", maybe above avg at best.

[BaltimoreTerp]

It says that after this game this team is a 7 win team, maybe 8. Better than UNC, NC State, perhaps better than Duke (don't know cause we didn't play them) but not better than teams expected to be the upper echelon of the ACC (FSU, Miami, VaTech). I'll even put BC up there since they always seem to do well without getting much hype.

I should have clarified my position that we're basically "second tier" status. Basically, we're "average", maybe above avg at best.

Then VaTech and Miami are second-tier, because we'll have the same conference and overall records as them.

As an aside, since I just started looking through the season predictions threads, SI might have hit their prediction almost exact: http://forum.orioleshangout.com/forums/showthread.php?t=68620

[OregonBird]

Then VaTech and Miami are second-tier, because we'll have the same conference and overall records as them.

As an aside, since I just started looking through the season predictions threads, SI might have hit their prediction almost exact: http://forum.orioleshangout.com/forums/showthread.php?t=68620

Right, but most expect Miami, VaTech and FSU to win the ACC. They have "programs" while MD does not. MD has "teams." MD gets pushed around when they play "programs."

All I'm saying is that this team doesn't seize the moment.

[BaltimoreTerp]

Right, but most expect Miami, VaTech and FSU to win the ACC. They have "programs" while MD does not. MD has "teams." MD gets pushed around when they play "programs."

All I'm saying is that this team doesn't seize the moment.

Well, their "programs" are doing just as well as our "team". Either we're doing something right (stunning, I know :rolleyes:) or they are doing a lot of things wrong :laughlol:

[RFisthaMan]

Right, but most expect Miami, VaTech and FSU to win the ACC. They have "programs" while MD does not. MD has "teams." MD gets pushed around when they play "programs."

All I'm saying is that this team doesn't seize the moment.

Exactly. Anytime a "program" plays a UMD "team" the "program" dominates.

Any time MD faces a team on the downslope they still blow it. UMD has no foundation as a national program.

A powerhouse- HA. That's a joke. These players have absolutely no heart. No desire. Once again the Terps blow it. Should I be suprised?


(On a side note... Congratulations to the FSU player, Rolle, that earned a Rhodes Scholar award. As much as I hate FSU, that individual deserves his accolades (sp). It's nice to see a "meathead" earn such a prestigous award.

[OregonBird]

OK, good night Irene, 34-3.

Seriously, its one thing to lose a game and to lose a big game. It's another thing to not even be competitive. Virginia and FSU were two of the most embarassing efforts I've seen by this team. The MTSU effort was a pretty poor one as well. I can handle a loss but this isn't how you play football.

Ralph really needs to step back and evaluate this program. It's a failure in recruiting and coaching.

[Dracula]

Ralph with another no show in a big game, what a surprise. The worst part is that this team did enough this year to save his job.

According to Ralph this was supposed to be "his best team" while at MD. Its only getting worse from here in the years to come. This was the perfect storm year that we needed to seize the ACC. We will not get another chance like this for years. The ACC will not be down like this and give us this oppurtunity again anytime soon.

So many wasted opportunities this year. Will MD ever get a legit QB here? If not than this year is the peak of what you can expect. Turner and Steffy are D1 backups at best and I really have low expectations for Portis (nothing upstairs). Heyward-Bey is the best WR in the nation IMO and his talent gets wasted every game.

Wake me when Fridge is gone.

[BaltimoreTerp]

Ralph with another no show in a big game, what a surprise. The worst part is that this team did enough this year to save his job.

According to Ralph this was supposed to be "his best team" while at MD. Its only getting worse from here in the years to come. This was the perfect storm year that we needed to seize the ACC. We will not get another chance like this for years. The ACC will not be down like this and give us this oppurtunity again anytime soon.

So many wasted opportunities this year. Will MD ever get a legit QB here? If not than this year is the peak of what you can expect. Turner and Steffy are D1 backups at best and I really have low expectations for Portis (nothing upstairs). Heyward-Bey is the best WR in the nation IMO and his talent gets wasted every game.

Wake me when Fridge is gone.

Ok Rip Van Winkle...

[OregonBird]

Will MD ever get a legit QB here? If not than this year is the peak of what you can expect. Turner and Steffy are D1 backups at best and I really have low expectations for Portis (nothing upstairs).

You do have a point here. We've got another year of Turner and Portis. After that, there's nothing really in the pipeline unless Jamar Robinson has some secret hidden talents we know nothing about.

Next year will look similar to this year but after that, there's no bonafide QB ready to take the program to the next level.

I'm afraid its a 6-7 win team from here on out.

[Birds of B'more]

Right, but most expect Miami, VaTech and FSU to win the ACC. They have "programs" while MD does not. MD has "teams." MD gets pushed around when they play "programs."

All I'm saying is that this team doesn't seize the moment.

Your signature says it all....this football team is all talk. Truth is, Maryland's ceiling is probably a 7-8 win "team" in a given season. But once every 5-10 years, the planets should align and they should be able to play their way into the ACC Championship Game. This should have been one of those years, but everyone from the coaching staff down to the 3rd-stringers failed to "seize the moment." And when they fail to do that, that makes them no better than the UNCs, Wakes and GA Techs of the world. The fact that MD might average one win more per season than those schools hardly seems relevant to me. In fact, back in 2006 Wake Forest seized their moment, so the Terps are really no better than them.

[DuffMan]

Disgusting

[Todd-O]

Absolutely pathetic. This game is over. F Maryland.

I have to say - you can be disappointed... but to bail on your team because they lost...

That's pathetic.

We have a huge game coming up this week with so much on the line...stretching this team to eight wins and the possibility of a ninth.

Come on Terps! I'm still pullin' for you!!!!

Go Terps!

[OregonBird]

I don't have a lot of confidence in the Terps vs. BC. Instead, the team and the coaching staff will get a lesson in how to prepare for a game and take care of business when they need to do so. They'll also see how to prepare a backup QB for the game.

BC doesn't have many of the 4 star guys but they find a way to get it done. Coach Jags and Spaziani will have those boys coached up and ready for the game.

I'm expecting the Terps players to "mail it in" since they aren't playing for the ACC title game and they've got a bowl bid locked up. It won't be a "statement" game, that's for sure.

[Todd-O]

Well... you might be right.

I guess the one thing that I've learned about this team - meaning this group of players (both this year and the last) - is that you really never know what you're going to get.

While I was leaving Byrd last night, I had similar thoughts... but, I also thought that UNC would control the game and beat the Terps.

It almost makes you wonder who will show.

My fingers are crossed that the attacking D that we saw for most of the UNC game will show and that line will give Turner the time he needs... the poor kid got absolutely wrecked last night. Even Scott McBrien commented on how hard he was hit and that it's very hard to maintain composure when you are get hammered... not just hit.

[Mackus]

Turner played terribly even when he had time to throw. He didn't singlehandedly lose the game or anything like that, but he was beyond awful.

Fridge really needs to get a top level QB in here. Since McBrien QB has been a huge achilles heel for this team.

[Dr. FLK]

When Ralph had someone else's players, it lookes as if the Terps were headed towards becoming a real football team. But, ever since he's had his own bums - I mean players - this team has been mediocre at best. When they have to play a real game, they blow it. And, I know they beat some ranked teams this year...but most of those were teams that shouldn't have been ranked. UNC really isn't very good. Cal had the typical "west coast team playing east at noon" syndrome. Wake isn't all that good. When the Terps have to play real football "programs" like VT and FSU, they look like a complete embarrassment. We all want to blame the QB last night, but let's not forget a few things.

The OL couldn't have blocked my grandmother...and she's asleep by 8:00.
The secondary didn't really feel like covering anyone...or tackling anyone.
The offense wasted every, single trip in to FSU territory. Once they got close, the game plan forced them to just mail it in.

Sure, Turner stunk. But every single aspect of the team was pathetic. There is blame to go to every player and coach. Maryland football is back to what it has been....an afterthought. I miss Scott McBrien & Co...:(

[Todd-O]

That's rediculous. Maryland football is not an afterthought. Please. So they laid a goose egg. Get over it. But that statement is silly. So their not in the top 5. Only a select few programs are in that league. The Terps have a shot at a 9 win season. It ain't over yet.

[Sailor Jerry]

Wow, Turner is getting the blame for this one, really? When the O-line played as bad as it did? Turner gets sacked 5 times in the first half and that's hits fault? Or were all those blitzers the line let waltz on through somehow the QB's fault?

Turner didn't play a good game by any means. His second interception was inexcusable. But the offensive line was dominated. It set the tone for the whole game. That was the whole game right there.

[BaltimoreTerp]

Wow, Turner is getting the blame for this one, really? When the O-line played as bad as it did? Turner gets sacked 5 times in the first half and that's hits fault? Or were all those blitzers the line let waltz on through somehow the QB's fault?

Turner didn't play a good game by any means. His second interception was inexcusable. But the offensive line was dominated. It set the tone for the whole game. That was the whole game right there.

In football, it's completely a team game. The offensive line can struggle, which rattles the QB, which causes bad plays when the QB isn't rushed, which causes the defense to go after the QB even more, which makes the offensive line look even worse.

And add in the running game not getting established and making their own mistakes, which means when the QB struggles they can't go back to the ground AND when the mistakes start turning into points for the opponents they have to abandon the run completely.

An improvement from any of the separate units can help stem the tide (i.e. a better QB can handle the pressure better), but when all are having bad nights at the same time it leads to disaster.

Overall, I think the offense is alright, but Turner really lost a lot of support with his play. With all of the reports about his practice habits and the statistical evidence about only showing up for certain games, he really couldn't afford that kind of game on that kind of stage.

[Dr. FLK]

That's rediculous. Maryland football is not an afterthought. Please. So they laid a goose egg. Get over it. But that statement is silly. So their not in the top 5. Only a select few programs are in that league. The Terps have a shot at a 9 win season. It ain't over yet.

No, it's not ridiculous. In NCAA football, the ACC is an afterthought this year. And, MD is a mediocre ACC team. The Terps have a shot at a 9 win season against largely mediocre teams. The only way "it ain't over" is if "it" = "trip to mediocre bowl game".

[Todd-O]

No, it's not ridiculous. In NCAA football, the ACC is an afterthought this year. And, MD is a mediocre ACC team. The Terps have a shot at a 9 win season against largely mediocre teams. The only way "it ain't over" is if "it" = "trip to mediocre bowl game".

It is ridiculous. Duke is an after thought. Army is an after thought. Maryland is not an afterthought.

Maryland is a good ACC team this year in a league with a ton of parity. The ACC has no National Championship Contender this year... any fool can figure that out. But the conference has pulled together the second highest winning percentage - out of conference - of any conference in college football.

The problem is many of you get so wrapped up in the best of the best... that you can't see the forest for the trees. There's been a lot of good football played in the ACC this year... and there are a few teams that are beginning to show that they may, once again, move into the elite.

The elite is such small company in college football... you need to move on from the fact that you aren't part of that and enjoy what you have. Either that, or you can continue to cry in your beer and stamp your feet. Watch and enjoy and forgo the temper-tantrums. Even my 6 year old has figured that out.

[Baltimore Chop]

It is ridiculous. Duke is an after thought. Army is an after thought. Maryland is not an afterthought.

Maryland is a good ACC team this year in a league with a ton of parity. The ACC has no National Championship Contender this year... any fool can figure that out. But the conference has pulled together the second highest winning percentage - out of conference - of any conference in college football.

The problem is many of you get so wrapped up in the best of the best... that you can't see the forest for the trees. There's been a lot of good football played in the ACC this year... and there are a few teams that are beginning to show that they may, once again, move into the elite.

The elite is such small company in college football... you need to move on from the fact that you aren't part of that and enjoy what you have. Either that, or you can continue to cry in your beer and stamp your feet. Watch and enjoy and forgo the temper-tantrums. Even my 6 year old has figured that out.

:agree:

Excellent post, sir. To piggy back off this...

There is much more parity in college football -- at least, there was this year. Traditional powers Michigan, Tennessee, and Texas A & M were all pretty lousy this year. In fact, none of them are making a bowl. Vanderbilt is making a bowl for the first time since the early 1980s. Heck, it took LSU a frantic 4th quarter to stave off getting blown out by Troy in Baton Rouge. It's not just Maryland that has been a victim of parity.

Absent that, I think a lot of people have missed the fact that making the postseason in any sport IS A SUCCESS. The only difference in college football is perfection is, for the most part, necessary to win the national title. There is no other sport that I know of where that is the case. Naturally you want to win titles, but you can continue building the program by showing recruits that they will get an end of the year trip by playing at your school (not to mention increase practice time that gets eliminated by not making the postseason).

I think the only valid indictment I have read about the Maryland program/Friedgen this year is him talking about not getting through to his players. That is 100% on the coaching staff, and if he feels he can no longer get through, it is time for him to retire. Deep down, I bet Fridge would agree with this. Heck, when he came here back in 2001, I distinctly remember him saying he planned on retiring after 8 years. Not sure if this is still the plan, but I tend to think that he is most likely nearing the end of his career.

In that time, Fridge made Maryland football relevant again (if not to the national scene, certainly to the regional scene). He has gotten the university to improve their facilities, he has gotten MUCH larger crowds to the games, in short, the program is in substantially better shape than since he got here.

Although, I have to admit that I am very amused by the posters who call for Fridge's head after Maryland loses, but somehow disappear from the threads after they win.

[Dr. FLK]

It is ridiculous. Duke is an after thought. Army is an after thought. Maryland is not an afterthought.

Maryland is a good ACC team this year in a league with a ton of parity. The ACC has no National Championship Contender this year... any fool can figure that out. But the conference has pulled together the second highest winning percentage - out of conference - of any conference in college football.

The problem is many of you get so wrapped up in the best of the best... that you can't see the forest for the trees. There's been a lot of good football played in the ACC this year... and there are a few teams that are beginning to show that they may, once again, move into the elite.

The elite is such small company in college football... you need to move on from the fact that you aren't part of that and enjoy what you have. Either that, or you can continue to cry in your beer and stamp your feet. Watch and enjoy and forgo the temper-tantrums. Even my 6 year old has figured that out.

You almost had me until you felt the need to go down the temper-tantrum route. That was the height of maturity...good work. I don't remember saying that MD should be elite...but they just really aren't impressive. They aren't in competition for anything of significance. They have a 7 point win over Delaware. Losses to MTSU and UVA. They have some decent wins too, don't get me wrong. That's what I'm not saying they are terrible. But, do you think anyone outside of Maryland has any interest in watching a UMD football game?

I'm not crying about MD football. I'm just completely unimpressed by them, and I have been for a few years. You don't have be "elite" to be more than an afterthought. To me, an inconsistent team in a mediocre conference is nothing more than an afterthought in the big picture of college football. In Fridge's first few years, MD wasn't elite. But, they certainly were on the NCAA radar. Now? Not so much.

[Dr. FLK]

Absent that, I think a lot of people have missed the fact that making the postseason in any sport IS A SUCCESS. The only difference in college football is perfection is, for the most part, necessary to win the national title.

57% of D-1A teams make the post-season. That's a lot of successful seasons.

[Baltimore Chop]

57% of D-1A teams make the post-season. That's a lot of successful seasons.

It is. The powers that be decided to have that many make the post season.

Ultimately, it doesn't matter if you end the season playing in the GMAC Bowl or the Rose Bowl -- you still aren't going to win the national championship.

Only 1 team wins it all -- that's true in any sport.

[Dr. FLK]

Uh huh. And only 1 wins a national title. That's true in any sport.

Did I imply that many teams do?

[Dr. FLK]

It is. The powers that be decided to have that many make the post season.

Ultimately, it doesn't matter if you end the season playing in the GMAC Bowl or the Rose Bowl -- you still aren't going to win the national championship.

Only 1 team wins it all -- that's true in any sport.

So there is no difference between making a BCS Bowl or the GMAC Bowl? Seriously?

[OregonBird]

All I can really say is to go on youtube and find some Terps clips of games in 2001 and 2002. Watch how the players play, what they do. Watch how dynamic the offense was with the option and watch how the defense attacked. The team was a thing of beauty on both sides of the ball.

What's this? OMG!? Is it the "spread option?"
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T10Ym-KsYjE
Here's some option w/the fullback gettin' some "sugar":
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Liw7Y2v_31Q
Here's a defensive clip, these guys are attacking especially the hit from Leroy Ambush.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DNExiKQUmnY

Contrast those clips with what you have seen the past two years. It is night and day difference, like comparing "Pop Warner" ball to the NFL. There were bright coaches and the team had football players on it, not a collection of individuals with great "measurables". It is also my opinion that having an athletic QB running the option really opened up the possibilities for the Terps on offense.

Alas.....those were many years ago. We haven't had a QB like McBrien, a guy that ironically nobody wanted, or a RB like Bruce Perry, a DT like Randy Starks or a LB like Shawn Merriman. Those guys are long gone.

[Baltimore Chop]

So there is no difference between making a BCS Bowl or the GMAC Bowl? Seriously?

Answer me this...

How many teams, since the inception of the BCS championship game, have won a championship after winning the Rose Bowl?

Assuming they keep the BCS National Championship game in place for the forseeable future, how many will EVER win a National Championship after winning the Rose Bowl?

Look, I agree there is a distinct difference between going to a BCS Bowl and the GMAC Bowl, but that's more in prestige than in National Championships. The point still remains that most teams in I-A (or whatever it's called now) football still aren't going to sniff a BCS Bowl.

Heck, we're probably going to wind up with at least one undefeated team playing in a bowl the equivalent of the GMAC Bowl this season. Why should they even bother?

Now, let's look at the Terps. Are they disappointed that they're not going to the Orange Bowl? Absolutely. I guarantee that.

I bet they're thrilled that they get to go somewhere for the holidays, though. You're probably asking why they're thrilled. Simply put, I would be willing to wager that if you asked the team whether they would rather play in the Music City Bowl or call it a season, the vast majority would vote to play on. They're in the postseason, so play on.

[Dr. FLK]

Answer me this...

How many teams, since the inception of the BCS championship game, have won a championship after winning the Rose Bowl?

Assuming they keep the BCS National Championship game in place for the forseeable future, how many will EVER win a National Championship after winning the Rose Bowl?

Look, I agree there is a distinct difference between going to a BCS Bowl and the GMAC Bowl, but that's more in prestige than in National Championships. The point still remains that most teams in I-A (or whatever it's called now) football still aren't going to sniff a BCS Bowl.

Heck, we're probably going to wind up with at least one undefeated team playing in a bowl the equivalent of the GMAC Bowl this season. Why should they even bother?

Now, let's look at the Terps. Are they disappointed that they're not going to the Orange Bowl? Absolutely. I guarantee that.

I bet they're thrilled that they get to go somewhere for the holidays, though. You're probably asking why they're thrilled. Simply put, I would be willing to wager that if you asked the team whether they would rather play in the Music City Bowl or call it a season, the vast majority would vote to play on. They're in the postseason, so play on.

I agree that some players may be thrilled. But, thrilled 19 year old kids does not equate to a "successful" season. Fridge set the bar high early on. His teams had thrilling offensive play, and solid defense. They were consistently tough to stop. They haven't been that team since McBrien left. They often have a stagnant offense. They can't find a legit QB. The defense is poor. They're back to being a tier 2 ACC team. Maybe some kids will be excited to go to Boise, Seattle, or Charlotte...but I wouldn't call this season a successful one.

[BaltimoreTerp]

I agree that some players may be thrilled. But, thrilled 19 year old kids does not equate to a "successful" season. Fridge set the bar high early on. His teams had thrilling offensive play, and solid defense. They were consistently tough to stop. They haven't been that team since McBrien left. They often have a stagnant offense. They can't find a legit QB. The defense is poor. They're back to being a tier 2 ACC team. Maybe some kids will be excited to go to Boise, Seattle, or Charlotte...but I wouldn't call this season a successful one.

Yeah, because college football isn't about those pesky kids :laughlol:

[PeteCanes]

Well, their "programs" are doing just as well as our "team". Either we're doing something right (stunning, I know :rolleyes:) or they are doing a lot of things wrong :laughlol:

We are doing a lot of things wrong.

[Dr. FLK]

Yeah, because college football isn't about those pesky kids :laughlol:

As long as they all have a super fun time...that's all that matters.

[BaltimoreTerp]

As long as they all have a super fun time...that's all that matters.

If things were as they should be...yes, it is.

[McNulty]

How many teams, since the inception of the BCS championship game, have won a championship after winning the Rose Bowl?



I thought Texas did a few years ago against USC in 05. Miami in 01. USC in 03.

Only USC's was shared.

[Baltimore Chop]

I thought Texas did a few years ago against USC in 05. Miami in 01. USC in 03.

Only USC's was shared.

That was before the advent of the BCS Championship game.

The BCS is now 5 bowls; not 4.

At that time, the BCS Bowls rotated which one was the designated title game.

One other point I would like to make -- since he's been here, Friedgen has had Maryland in contention to win the ACC more times than not.

2001 -- Won it
2002 -- In contention
2003 -- In contention
2004 -- Also ran
2005 -- Also ran
2006 -- In contention
2007 -- Also ran
2008 -- In contention

That's pretty good, all things considered, IMO. Frankly, I am pleased with my team being in contention more often than not, particularly since college football is becoming more and more volatile every year. Teams that were once great are no longer (e.g. Notre Dame, Nebraska, aforementioned Tennessee, Texas A&M, and Auburn). Some teams that were great fell and have risen back (Penn State, FSU, and Alabama come to mind). Heck -- a lot of people were ready to pull the plug on Joe Pa about 2-3 years ago...but I think most would argue they've rebounded rather nicely.

Now, does this mean that Fridge should get a free pass? Definitely not. I agree that if Fridge believes that he can no longer reach his players (which he hinted at a few times this year) then it is time for him to move on. However, I think it is easy to get caught up at looking at the big prize and feeling that falling short is inherently a failure.

Fridge had Maryland in contention for the ACC championship until the last week of the season. In any other sport, that would be considered a successful season.

[Todd-O]

You almost had me until you felt the need to go down the temper-tantrum route. That was the height of maturity...good work.

Well - actually that was more a reference for the "F Maryland" comment by an earlier poster. Kind of mixing two reactions together. Not intended for you, per se.

Otherwise, I will have to agree to disagree with you. I happen to enjoy watching and following the Terps. High and low. Your radar is, apparently, very narrow... because you are only concerned with the end result of a national championship. I'm not saying that wouldn't be nice to follow... but, in the end, like most people I only have time to watch a game or two a weekend... I happen to watch the Terps. They are a program that does matter... perhaps not to the degree of USC or Florida... but then again 90% of teams don't fit in that category... actually probably less than that. The next 8% are bordering that elite status... and then there is a chunk that has some great players and can play well. Maryland, right now, falls in the later half. There was a time that they fit into the next level up from that... the first 3 years of Ralph.

Look... you can think they suck... but for most MD fans, at this point, we're rooting for a victory weekend so we can get a shot at watching Maryland play another team of some stature. It's novel. It's fun. It's college football.

You and I may be different in the fact that I'm not going to ignore a team that isn't the best of the best. I'm not going to only watch the Yankees or Red Sox in baseball. I'm going to choose to watch the skins over only watching the Patriots.

Of course there are times I get frustrated with Fridge... especially with his relatively weak excuses... and there are times I'd like to see him leave. But in no way do agree with you that Maryland is some blip that just doesn't matter.

[Todd-O]

That was before the advent of the BCS Championship game.

The BCS is now 5 bowls; not 4.

At that time, the BCS Bowls rotated which one was the designated title game.

One other point I would like to make -- since he's been here, Friedgen has had Maryland in contention to win the ACC more times than not.

2001 -- Won it
2002 -- In contention
2003 -- In contention
2004 -- Also ran
2005 -- Also ran
2006 -- In contention
2007 -- Also ran
2008 -- In contention

That's pretty good, all things considered, IMO. Frankly, I am pleased with my team being in contention more often than not, particularly since college football is becoming more and more volatile every year. Teams that were once great are no longer (e.g. Notre Dame, Nebraska, aforementioned Tennessee, Texas A&M, and Auburn). Some teams that were great fell and have risen back (Penn State, FSU, and Alabama come to mind). Heck -- a lot of people were ready to pull the plug on Joe Pa about 2-3 years ago...but I think most would argue they've rebounded rather nicely.

Now, does this mean that Fridge should get a free pass? Definitely not. I agree that if Fridge believes that he can no longer reach his players (which he hinted at a few times this year) then it is time for him to move on. However, I think it is easy to get caught up at looking at the big prize and feeling that falling short is inherently a failure.

Fridge had Maryland in contention for the ACC championship until the last week of the season. In any other sport, that would be considered a successful season.

Great post - agree 100%

[bgtimber75]

I hope you guys step it up against BC this week.

[Dr. FLK]

Well - actually that was more a reference for the "F Maryland" comment by an earlier poster. Kind of mixing two reactions together. Not intended for you, per se.

Otherwise, I will have to agree to disagree with you. I happen to enjoy watching and following the Terps. High and low. Your radar is, apparently, very narrow... because you are only concerned with the end result of a national championship. I'm not saying that wouldn't be nice to follow... but, in the end, like most people I only have time to watch a game or two a weekend... I happen to watch the Terps. They are a program that does matter... perhaps not to the degree of USC or Florida... but then again 90% of teams don't fit in that category... actually probably less than that. The next 8% are bordering that elite status... and then there is a chunk that has some great players and can play well. Maryland, right now, falls in the later half. There was a time that they fit into the next level up from that... the first 3 years of Ralph.

Look... you can think they suck... but for most MD fans, at this point, we're rooting for a victory weekend so we can get a shot at watching Maryland play another team of some stature. It's novel. It's fun. It's college football.

You and I may be different in the fact that I'm not going to ignore a team that isn't the best of the best. I'm not going to only watch the Yankees or Red Sox in baseball. I'm going to choose to watch the skins over only watching the Patriots.

Of course there are times I get frustrated with Fridge... especially with his relatively weak excuses... and there are times I'd like to see him leave. But in no way do agree with you that Maryland is some blip that just doesn't matter.

I'm not sure if you choose to ignore my words, or just put words in my mouth. I never said that they suck. I never said that I don't enjoy watching them. I never said I don't root for victory.

I have season tickets, and I go to every home game...and I've been to every bowl game since Fridge took over. I called them an afterthought, which I think is true. Honestly, outside of the state of MD, do you think anyone else in the country concerns themselves with Terrapin football? We are an above average team in one of the weakest major conferences in NCAA football. That's all. Locally, they are semi-exciting on a regular basis. But, nationally? An afterthought IMO. When Fridge took over, I thought we were headed for better things. But, his recruiting seems to have stopped that. I still enjoy watching them, and they are better off than when Fridge took over. But, I certainly hope the program can continue to grow.

[Todd-O]

In NCAA football, the ACC is an afterthought this year. And, MD is a mediocre ACC team. The Terps have a shot at a 9 win season against largely mediocre teams.

In other words: They suck. How else is this supposed to be read? You don't exactly type the words... but you couldn't skate the line any more closely.

Again, there is only a very small percentage of schools that carry a national interest. A very small percentage. Period. Nothing more to say. It's college football... that's pretty much the way it is. And to think Maryland carries any less weight than other teams that are as competitive as they are is a silly notion.

[Dr. FLK]

In other words: They suck. How else is this supposed to be read? You don't exactly type the words... but you couldn't skate the line any more closely.

Again, there is only a very small percentage of schools that carry a national interest. A very small percentage. Period. Nothing more to say. It's college football... that's pretty much the way it is. And to think Maryland carries any less weight than other teams that are as competitive as they are is a silly notion.

They suck. Since you won't give up until I say what you already think I said, then I'll say it. Move on.

[Todd-O]

They suck. Since you won't give up until I say what you already think I said, then I'll say it. Move on.

That's funny... you had forgotten what you had said... and, really, those words need no further explanation or clarification.