Throughout the regular season, the Maryland football team has repaid its believers with close wins in games in which it was the underdog.
After two 5-6 campaigns, the Terps (8-4) went 5-3 in the Atlantic Coast Conference and are now in position to close the season on a high note.
“We have a big game ahead of us, and we have a chance to continue what we set out to do in the beginning of the season,” senior offensive tackle Stephon Heyer said.
In the final two weeks of the regular season, Maryland had a shot at a higher bowl game. But the Terps lost both games to end a positive season on a sour note ? something they?re looking to erase when they face Purdue (8-5) tonight in the Champs Sports Bowl in Orlando, Fla.
“For the most part, we have come out and practiced very hard, very well and very enthusiastic,” Terps coach Ralph Friedgen said. “It looks like they are enjoying themselves out there. I think they want to atone for the last two games. They do not think that is who they are.”
The Terps have relished the spoiler role all season. And Saturday, they?ll try to lean on the seniors? emotion of playing one final time.
“It is an emotional time,” Friedgen said. “A lot of these players, it will be the last time they play college football, but that is the same way on the other side.”
Purdue will suit up 29 seniors, while Maryland has 13.
“They?re probably tired of practicing,” Friedgen said in a team release after Wednesday?s practice. “They want to play. This has been our 14th day of practicing for Purdue.”
Practice and preparation aside, the Terps are ready to give their fans and seniors one last show. Sophomore linebacker Erin Henderson said the team is ready to repay the confidence of their faithful followers.
“We want to go down there and give the fans their money?s worth,” Henderson said.
