Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen doesn’t know which quarterback he’ll start in four days against Middle Tennessee State, but it’s certainly clear which player he hopes will emerge as the starter.
Friedgen reiterated his faith in Jordan Steffy on Tuesday, praising the injured graduate student’s toughness, character and pride. He also chastised those in the crowd of 49,119 at Byrd Stadium who booed Steffy during the team’s 14-7 victory over Delaware on Saturday.
“It’s their right, they pay for their tickets and they can do what they want,” Friedgen said. “But I’m just saying, if you would know this person and the contribution he has made to our football program, and the fact that he’s going through tough times right now, and yet still is doing everything in his power for us to be a good football team, speaks volumes to me about what kind of character he is. Maybe I’m like a father: if you’re booing my son, I’m going to get upset. That’s how I look at this kid.”
Steffy, who completed 10-of-18 passes for 115 yards and two interceptions against the Blue Hens, was pulled in the fourth quarter after injuring his thumb. Friedgen said the injury likely occurred when Steffy banged his thumb on an opponent’s helmet while throwing a pass late in the third quarter.
“Actually, I did not know he got hurt,” senior center Edwin Williams said. “It’s really kind of in the middle of the game, shells are flying out there.”
Steffy, who had his hand X-rayed on Tuesday morning, was not made available for comment after Saturday’s game or during Tuesday’s media luncheon.
If Steffy doesn’t earn the starting spot against the Blue Raiders (0-1), the Terrapins likely will turn to junior Chris Turner, who started the final eight games of last season after Steffy suffered a concussion. The team also could use junior Josh Portis to head a more run-oriented attack.
“I feel confident with Chris,” Friedgen said. “I’m proud of Chris also. I think the way Chris has handled this has been commendable. Regardless of who plays this week or next week, or whatever, Jordan will come in and win a game for us before the season is over. I can promise you that.”
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