Maryland University announced the dismissal of football head coach Michael Locksley on Wednesday, marking a significant change in the program amid a challenging season. The decision came four days after the Terrapins suffered their fifth consecutive loss, a 37-30 home defeat to Rutgers, which also snapped the Scarlet Knights’ winless streak against Football Bowl Subdivision opponents this season.

Locksley had been in charge for eight seasons, including a brief interim coaching role in 2015. During his tenure, the team achieved notable success from 2021 to 2023, securing three consecutive bowl game victories—a first in Maryland’s history. However, the program’s overall performance declined sharply since then, with the Terrapins posting a 10-21 record over the past two-plus seasons. Their struggles this year intensified following consecutive home losses to teams led by first-year head coaches Virginia Tech and UCLA, as well as road defeats against Nebraska and Ohio State.

Earlier in the week, Maryland had relieved defensive coordinator Ted Monachino of his duties, a move that initially suggested Locksley’s position might remain secure. Instead, the university opted for a more extensive reshuffling, appointing co-defensive coordinator Aazaar Abdul-Rahim as interim head coach. The Terrapins currently have an open date on their schedule before resuming play.

Locksley finished his Maryland career with an overall record of 38-49 and struggled particularly in Big Ten Conference competition, posting a 16-47 mark in league play. The administration’s move to replace him reflects mounting pressure to reverse the program’s downward trajectory following a series of poor results and dwindling fan attendance.