Is Maryland home finale the last dance for Friedgen?
By: Kevin Dunleavy
Examiner Staff Writer
November 26, 2009
Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen was emotional, but in control, as he faced the press Tuesday afternoon. Steering clear of questions regarding his job status, Friedgen remained on point, talking about Saturday's season-finale opponent Boston College, his affection for his team, and the Terps' promising future.
Whether Friedgen is part of that future remains unclear. Athletic director Debbie Yow will decide after this season -- Friedgen's worst out of nine in College Park -- whether to buy out the final two years of his contract.
Boston College (7-4)
at Maryland (2-9)
Where » Capital One Field at Byrd Stadium, College Park
When » Saturday, 3:30 p.m.
TV » ESPNU
Radio » 106.7 FM
"I'm not going to get into that. That is what it is," said Friedgen. "I told [the players] last night to focus on what we can control. What we can control is preparing for Boston College."
With a loss to Boston College (7-4), Maryland (2-9) would have its first 10-defeat season in program history, a precipitous fall for Friedgen, who went 31-8 in his first three seasons and has guided Maryland to six bowl games.
So what is at stake Saturday when the Terps honor their 14 seniors, who will play their final game at Byrd Stadium?
"It's going to be very emotional for everybody," said senior center Phil Costa. "You want to finish with a win. It's very important for the coaching staff, the players, and to kind of build momentum, have a good feeling in your mouth for next season."
In Maryland's 29-26 loss at Florida State Saturday, the Terps' fourth this year by a touchdown or less, there were several positives. Sophomore quarterback Jamarr Robinson (20 of 27, 214 yards, 12 carries, 61 yards) showed poise, presence, and accuracy, junior back Da'Rel Scott (21 touches, 110 yards) ran hard after being out for six weeks with a broken wrist, and the Terps' embattled, young offensive line produced a consistent rushing attack.
"I'm much more optimistic this week, than I was last week," said Friedgen.
Robinson (leg) is probable for Boston College. Senior quarterback Chris Turner (MCL) could return Saturday. Friedgen hinted that he wouldn't hesitate to use freshman Danny O'Brien, if needed, even if it meant burning his redshirt season.
"Right now I'd trade a lot for a win," said Friedgen. "Whatever it takes."
A win over a quality opponent might not do much to change Friedgen's fate. But it would end Maryland's six-game losing streak and send his senior class away on a positive note.
When asked what he would say to fans considering canceling their season tickets, Friedgen sounded like a politician stumping for another term.
"I would say, 'Keep the faith,'" said Friedgen. "We've got a lot of guys coming back. I believe in this team very much. They've got a lot to look forward to. We're gonna grow from this experience. We're gonna be better for this experience. We're gonna appreciate winning maybe more than we have in the past. I think the future is pretty bright."
