For source of turnovers, look at offensive line
Running an offense that has committed 13 turnovers, Maryland quarterback Chris Turner is bearing the brunt of the criticism for the Terps’ worst start (1-3) in the nine-year tenure of Ralph Friedgen.
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When the subject of turnovers is raised, Friedgen speaks of correction, implying Turner — who has thrown five interceptions and fumbled twice — is to blame. But Maryland’s problems are deeper than the quarterback.
at Maryland (1-3)When » Saturday, noonWhere » Capital One Field at Byrd StadiumTV » ESPNU
Turnovers have come this season because the offense is stressed. A woeful offensive line, the worst Friedgen has ever fielded at Maryland, has been the primary culprit. Last year, Maryland averaged 4.3 yards per rush. With the same backs this year, the Terps’ average has shrunk to 3.2 yards per carry. What will happen to that figure when the Terps hit the meat of their schedule?
Put in unfavorable down-and-distance situations, Turner has been a sitting duck. The line has surrendered 3.5 sacks per game after giving up 2.3 per game last season. Turner has kept his quarterback efficiency rating respectable (122.6 vs. 119.3 in 2008), but hasn’t been able to prevent turnovers.
“Coach [James] Franklin says maybe I am changing my game a little bit, just reacting differently,” said Turner. “He might be right — forcing the ball in situations when I should, worst case, take a sack instead of throwing the ball up, leaving the pocket too soon, things like that.”
The starting line includes two walk-ons and a true freshman. Its most experienced player, senior tackle Bruce Campbell, has been slowed by turf toe. Other linemen are injured. When junior tackle Paul Pinegar suffered a back injury Saturday against Rutgers, in came redshirt freshman, R.J. Dill. Two other redshirt freshmen, Justin Lewis and Justin Gilbert, are No. 2 on the depth chart at their respective positions.
“They are very young and they are growing right now,” said Friedgen, speaking in general about his team. “I know people don’t want to hear that, but that’s the state of affairs, like it or not.”
While the Terps are well-stocked at the skill positions, their recruiting efforts have been much less successful on the line. Some talented prospects who figured by now to be contributors, such as Beathur Johnson, have washed out of the program.
It all adds up to an impotent offense and perhaps a shell-shocked quarterback.
“If we can hang in there, get the ball out quickly, and make some plays when they’re there, we’ll use that momentum,” said Turner.
Trouble is, the plays might not be there.
