In an Under Armour commercial a few years ago, Ralph Friedgen told his players: “We must protect this house.” It was an order the Terps carried out dutifully for the coach, winning 22 of Friedgen’s first 23 games at Byrd Stadium.
But in recent years, Maryland has been less protective, going 18-12 at home, including Saturday’s loss to Middle Tennessee State.
Considering the opponent, it is the worst Byrd defeat in Friedgen’s nine seasons.
The last time Maryland fell at home to a team not currently in a BCS conference was the 1997 debut of Ron Vanderlinden, a 21-14 loss to Ohio U.
Saturday’s debacle continued a trend of humbling home losses. Examiner staff writer Kevin Dunleavy highlights one from each of the last three years:
Florida State 37, Maryland 3 (2008) » On Senior Night, the Terps committed four turnovers and forced none, falling out of contention for a berth in the ACC Championship game and finishing 0-4 in night games in 2008.
West Virginia 31, Maryland 14 (2007) » Terps weren’t expected to win this one, but coming on an ESPN Thursday, it was particularly embarrassing as Maryland castoff Steve Slaton (137 yards, 3 TD) ran wild with late help from Noel Devine (136 yards, 5 carries).
Wake Forest 38, Maryland 24 (2006) » In the season finale, with the ACC Atlantic Division title on the line, the Demon Deacons ended their seven-game losing streak against the Terps.
