Ralph Friedgen described it as an NFL defense.
“This is by far the toughest defense we’ve played,” said Maryland’s head coach of the Miami Hurricanes. “They’re big, they’re strong, they’re fast. They don’t have any weaknesses. I think all of them are probably first-round draft choices.”
Miami’s troubled season got even more difficult this week after the shooting death of defensive tackle Bryan Papa. But the Hurricanes still own a defense that is second-best (247.2 yards allowed per game) in Atlantic Coast Conference and best known for producing terrorizing pros like Ray Lewis, Ed Reed and Sean Taylor.
“Speed plays a really big role in why they get guys to the next level, but also I think their instincts of the game are really great,” said Maryland wide receiver Isaiah Williams. He and Friedgen both pointed to a play last week against Virginia Tech by Miami’s second leading tackler, junior outside linebacker Jon Beason. “They tried to cut him, and he just hurdles right over the guy. They’ve got unbelievable instincts and unbelievable athletic ability.”
The Terrapins wide receivers expect to face a physical challenge at the line of scrimmage, where Miami’s cornerbacks press as much as any team Maryland’s faced.
The Hurricanes’ struggles this season have been centered around the offense, and sophomore quarterback Kirby Freeman is slated to make his first start this weekend in place of injured and beleaguered Kyle Wright.
‘’We’re playing for Pata this weekend,’’ Freeman told the Palm Beach Post. “Our family has lost a member this week. And that’s the utmost important thing. . . . Is it frightening? Absolutely. But the sun came up this morning and all of us were able to reflect on another day.’’
Even before Pata’s death, the Terrapins knew the Hurricanes would be hungry and despite their troubles, possess the talent to turn things around in an ever-changing ACC.
“Who knows? On Saturday they might just all start clicking together and just make the plays that they need to make,” said Terrapins linebacker Erin Henderson. “Then all of a sudden people are wondering in if Maryland really any good at all.”
Miami (5-4, 2-3 ACC) at No. 23 Maryland (7-2,4-1)
» When: Saturday, 3:30 p.m.
» Where: Chevy Chase Field at Byrd Stadium, College Park
» TV: ABC
