The Maryland Terrapins suffered their fifth consecutive loss on Saturday, falling 37-30 to Rutgers at SECU Stadium before a crowd of 39,326. Maryland led 23-13 at halftime but was unable to maintain its advantage as Rutgers rallied in the second half to secure the victory.
The defeat marked Maryland’s fourth straight loss within the Big Ten this season and extended the program’s conference losing streak to 12 games dating back to a victory over Wisconsin on September 20, 2025. Over this 392-day span, Maryland has struggled to close out games, dropping to 28-4 all-time when leading at halftime.
Rutgers, which improved to 2-4 overall and 1-2 in conference play, also entered the contest searching for consistency within the Big Ten. The Scarlet Knights' comeback against Maryland mirrored other recent struggles for both programs in establishing themselves within the conference.
Maryland’s defense allowed 442 total yards, continuing a trend of defensive difficulties that have plagued the Terps throughout the season. The team’s inability to contain opposing offenses contributed significantly to the latest loss.
The result has intensified scrutiny on head coach Michael Locksley, who now holds a 16-43 record against Big Ten opponents. The defeat may factor into Athletic Director Jim Smith’s forthcoming decisions on the team’s leadership, given the five-game losing streak and the Terps’ 2-5 overall record, including a 0-4 start in conference play.
When asked about his future with the program, Locksley declined to comment, refraining from discussing whether Saturday’s game was his last as Maryland’s head coach.
Maryland’s next opportunity to rebound comes on October 31 when they host Illinois at SECU Stadium. The kickoff time and television coverage details have yet to be announced.