Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen noticed Da’Rel Scott was lacking something as the sophomore rushed for 197 yards on 26 carries in a 14-7 victory over Delaware at Byrd Stadium.
“Normally, he would break some of those runs [for touchdowns],” Friedgen said. “I don’t think he quite had his third gear today.”
Friedgen’s other criticism of Scott, who ripped off runs of 26, 37 and 40 yards, was he didn’t find the end zone in his first career start. But Scott was the catalyst in a relentless rushing attack that amassed 271 yards and two touchdowns on 45 carries as the Terrapins (1-0) ran all over the Blue Hens in front of 49,119 on a sweltering hot afternoon in College Park.
“The coaches knew I could do it and what I’m capable of. I know myself,” Scott said. “I just needed to stay confident in myself, and keep working hard. Hopefully, I’ll have more days like this.”
And so do the Terrapins, who must run the ball effectively until they establish a passing game. Senior quarterback Jordan Steffy completed 10-of-18 passes for 115 yards, but was plagued by two interceptions. It’s unclear if Friedgen is going to stick with Steffy on Saturday against Middle Tennessee State (0-1) in Murfreesboro.
Still, Maryland should no trouble running the ball behind an experienced offensive line against the Blue Raiders, who gave up 164 yards rushing on 36 carries in a 31-17 loss to Troy last week.
“We’ve been together for awhile, I kind of grew up with them for the last five years and I know what kind of effort and skill we bring to it,” senior center Edwin Williams said. “Actually, I wasn’t surprised at all. I know what Da’Rel can bring to the deal.”
Last season, Scott was buried on the depth chart behind Lance Ball and Keon Lattimore, who combined to rush for 1,573 yards and 25 touchdowns. But the 5-foot-11, 192-pounder displayed flashes of brilliance when he got on the field, including when he turned a screen pass into a 57-yard touchdown during a victory over Boston College.
“Coach Friedgen was trying to see if we could get a better running game going on, better than last year,” Scott said. “I think he could see what I could do in camp, so I think he’s comfortable with it right now.”
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