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Luke Jones

Is Vlad simply Sammy Sosa version 2.0 for Orioles?

Luke Jones

It may have come seven years too late, but the Orioles finally persuaded Vlad the Impaler to bring his free-swinging talents to Baltimore. And before you shout charges of negativity and raining on a feel-good parade — fans in this town deserve a celebration as much as any city in baseball after 13 years of hell — I’ll admit to sharing enthusiastic visions of Vladimir Guerrero raking baseballs into the left field seats at Camden Yards. Guerrero brings an imposing presence to the heart of the lineup and should — along with veteran first baseman Derrek Lee — offer the legitimate protection that Nick Markakis, Matt Wieters, and Adam Jones painfully lacked a season ago. He should make the team better in 2011, though how much is up for debate. My hesitation isn’t even about the $8 million price tag that so many statheads will whine about with accusations of the Orioles bidding against themselves and blocking Nolan Reimold and Felix Pie for the possible luxury of another two wins (in terms of WAR or “wins above replacement” for the sabermetrically-challenged). The reality is sabermetrics and responsible spending habits don’t exist in a vacuum when you’re playing the free-agent market

Lights go out on Terps in 80-62 loss to Duke

Luke Jones

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — As media waited for Gary Williams’ post-game press conference, the lights went out in the auxiliary gymnasium where the Maryland coach speaks to reporters after games. It was an appropriate ending to a disappointing night for the Terps in an 80-62 loss to No. 5 Duke, a game in which Maryland tried to climb back in it at several points behind an electric atmosphere at Comcast Center. Poor shooting, the surrendering of second-chance baskets, and lackadaisical perimeter defense spelled out what anyone who watched Wednesday night’s game could plainly see. “It’s a team thing,” said Williams, questioning his team’s energy level much like he did after a home loss to Virginia Tech two weeks ago. “You have to be ready to play. You have to believe that you can win that game. That’s what we have to work on.” To beat Duke, Maryland (14-8, 4-4 ACC) needed to play a near-perfect game to compensate for their deficiencies on the perimeter, using its size and playing tough defense (ranked ninth in the nation in opponent field-goal percentage entering Wednesday night’s game) to knock off the more-talented Blue Devils. The Terps did neither as Duke (20-2, 7-1 ACC)

Maryland-Duke pre-game notes

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Turtle Power live chat as Maryland battles Duke at Comcast Center beginning at 9:00*** COLLEGE PARK, Md. — All season the Terps have been slapped with the “not quite good enough” label after a number of opportunities to knock off quality opponents only to fall short every time. Maryland (14-7, 4-3 ACC) will have another chance — perhaps its best one — tonight as No. 5 Duke (19-2, 6-1 ACC) comes to College Park for a rematch less than a month after the Blue Devils bested the Terps in a narrow 71-64 contest at Cameron Indoor Stadium on January 9. The Terps are riding a three-game winning streak while Duke has had three days to stew over its embarrassing 93-78 loss at St. John’s on Sunday afternoon. Despite being the consensus favorite in the ACC all season long, the Blue Devils find themselves tied for first place in the conference after North Carolina’s blowout over Boston College Tuesday night. Maryland must rely on its defense to contain the sharpshooting Blue Devils and should be up to the task on paper. The Terps rank ninth in the nation in field goal percentage defense, holding opponents to just

Orioles agree to 1-year deal with Duchscherer

Luke Jones

President of baseball operations Andy MacPhail reiterated his desire at FanFest Saturday to add a veteran starter to the rotation mix with spring training just two weeks away. Just over 24 hours later, the Orioles appear to have found their man, agreeing to a one-year major league contract with veteran right-hander Justin Duchscherer — with all of 32 career starts — late Sunday night, according to multiple media outlets. The 33-year-old has a 33-25 career record in eight seasons with the Athletics and Rangers, spending most of his career as a reliever while making two All-Star teams (2005 and 2008). However, Duchscherer has battled health problems the last two seasons, pitching just 28 innings last season before undergoing hip surgery and missing the 2009 campaign with shoulder and back issues as well as a bout with clinical depression. His best season came in 2008 when he went 10-8 with a 2.54 ERA in 22 starts for Oakland. Duchscherer threw in a workout for the Orioles on Friday and had reportedly narrowed his options to the Nationals and Baltimore before agreeing on the one-year deal. Given his health issues in recent seasons, any deal with the veteran was expected to be

Terps not pretty, but pick up 74-63 win at Georgia Tech

Luke Jones

Gary Williams admitted moments after a 74-63 win at Georgia Tech Sunday night he does not have a very pretty team this year. But the Maryland head coach would rather win ugly than lose with style any day of the week. It fits his personality, and this year’s team epitomizes the underdog, scrappy persona Williams has carried throughout his brilliant 22-year career in College Park. The Terps failed to make a 3-point field goal (0-for-6) and went scoreless for nearly five minutes late in the second half as they wilted against the Georgia Tech press, but Maryland’s defensive efforts managed to take care of the Yellow Jackets at Alexander Memorial Coliseum, a place where Georgia Tech was undefeated in conference play and had defeated its three opponents (North Carolina, Wake Forest, and Virginia Tech) by a combined 70 points. The Terps picked up their third conference road win of the season, a mark no other ACC team has reached at the end of January. The only outcome you can expect from Maryland (14-7, 4-3 ACC) on a given night is Jordan Williams to lead the way in points and rebounds, doing so again with 21 points and 15 rebounds after

Maryland-Georgia Tech pre-game notes

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Turtle Power live chat beginning at 7:45*** The Terps conclude their January schedule in Atlanta with a key road test against the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets. Both teams stand at 3-3 in the ACC and can pull into a three-way tie for fourth with a victory at Alexander Memorial Coliseum. Maryland (13-7, 3-3 ACC) will fight the temptation to look ahead to its return meeting with Duke — who was blown out by St. John’s at Madison Square Garden earlier Sunday — and attempt to become the first ACC team to beat the Yellow Jackets (10-9, 3-3 ACC) in their home building this season. Georgia Tech, however, will be missing a key member of its rotation with Brian Oliver out with the flu. He scored 28 points off the bench in the Jackets’ impressive 15-point victory over Virginia Tech earlier in the week. Tonight’s game will be televised on Fox SportsNet (Comcast SportsNet locally) with Tim Brando and Mike Gminski calling the action from Atlanta. Watch the action with us in the Turtle Power live chat and remember to follow us on Twitter (@WNST) for the quickest updates and analysis.

Orioles FanFest brings optimism, but questions remain for 2011

Luke Jones

Thousands of Orioles fans flocked to the Baltimore Convention Center on Saturday to mentally thaw out from the recent snow and shift their attention to spring and another baseball season. As is the case every year at this time, the optimistic superlatives were flying from every direction. Buck Showalter received a standing ovation when introduced to the crowd, proving he’s still the toast of the town — at least in the baseball sense — after leading the Orioles to an uplifting 34-23 record in the final two months of 2010, avoiding the 100-loss mark for a team that appeared destined at the end of July to finish as the worst team in franchise history. Second baseman Brian Roberts declared himself as healthy as he’s been in two years after missing over 100 games with an injured back and dealing with concussion symptoms that lasted until Christmas. And numerous players and coaches spoke about the marked improvements in the lineup — and defensively — with the additions of veteran first baseman Derrek Lee, third baseman Mark Reynolds, and shortstop J.J. Hardy. Some even reminded everyone the Orioles had the best record in the American League East over the season’s final two

Bowie leads Terps to blowout at Virginia, 66-42

Luke Jones

Given the Terps’ past struggles in Charlottesville and the snow-challenged, six-hour trek they experienced just getting there Wednesday night, you can understand fans’ trepidation entering Thursday’s contest at John Paul Jones Arena. On top of that, if you were told Jordan Williams would be held to just four points and six rebounds — snapping his school record of 13 consecutive double-doubles — you might have said a 24-point victory would have been more likely for the home Cavaliers than visiting Maryland. However, seniors Adrian Bowie and Cliff Tucker combined for 35 points and the Terps used a dominating second half on their way to a 66-42 blowout win over Virginia as Maryland (13-7, 3-3) evened its mark in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The win marks the Terps’ largest margin of victory ever in Charlottesville Despite a commendable effort by seven-footer Assane Sene and the Cavaliers defense to stifle Williams, the Terps looked to their seniors to pick up the offensive slack, and that’s exactly what they did. Bowie’s season-best 22 points were one shy of his career high, and Tucker’s 13 marked the eighth time in nine games the sixth man has reached double-digit scoring.  Their efforts were more than

Maryland-Virginia: Turtle Power live chat at 7:00

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Turtle Power live chat at 7:00 as Maryland takes on the Virginia Cavaliers at John Paul Jones Arena.*** The Terps travel to Charlottesville to take on the Virginia Cavaliers in the first of two meetings this season as both teams try to rise from the middle of the pack in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Maryland (12-7, 2-3 ACC) begins a two-game road trip after a badly-needed win over Clemson last Saturday afternoon. The Cavaliers (11-8, 2-3 ACC) are coming off a victory over Georgia Tech last Saturday, snapping a three-game losing streak in Tony Bennett’s second season as head coach. Sophomore Jordan Williams will look to build upon his record 13th straight double-double, an achievement he reached against the Tigers last weekend. Williams also eclipsed the 500-rebound mark on Saturday, becoming just the third Maryland player and 20th ACC player overall to reach the plateau as a sophomore. Joe Smith and Buck Williams were the first two Terps to grab 500 career rebounds in their first two seasons in College Park. The Cavaliers are led by senior guard Mustapha Farrakhan, who averages 13.0 points per game to lead their four-guard starting lineup. Seven-footer Assane Sene starts

Maryland-Clemson: Turtle Power live chat at 2:30

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Turtle Power live chat at 2:30 as Maryland takes on the Clemson Tigers at Comcast Center.*** COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Good afternoon from College Park as the Maryland Terrapins (11-7, 1-3 ACC) hope to erase the nightmare that occurred less than 48 hours ago in a humbling 74-57 loss to Virginia Tech, the Terps’ worst loss in the history of the Comcast Center. Desperately needing a victory to boost their confidence — not to mention their NCAA tournament hopes — Maryland will face a tough test against Clemson (13-5, 2-2 ACC), winners of eight of their last nine and coming off a 75-65 loss at North Carolina (where the Tigers have never won). The Tigers are led by talented senior guard Demontez Stitt, who averages 13.3 points per game, and forward Jerai Grant, who scores 12.3 points and grabs 6.9 rebounds per contest. Despite the troubling loss to Virginia Tech on Thursday night, Jordan Williams posted his 12th straight double-double, matching Len Elmore’s school record set in 1973-74. Maryland is currently tied for eighth in the Atlantic Coast Conference and can ill afford their third straight loss to begin 1-4 in the conference. This afternoon’s game

Maryland embarrassed by Virginia Tech, 74-57

Luke Jones

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — After a devastating second-half collapse against Villanova last Saturday, the Terps desperately needed to make a statement to build their confidence, their ACC stature, and their push for the NCAA tournament. If an embarrassing 74-57 defeat to Virginia Tech is their best proclamation, the Terps need to take a long look at themselves after their largest margin of defeat in the nine-year history of the Comcast Center. The Hokies (12-5, 3-2 ACC) sprinted out to a 12-0 lead as the Terps (11-7, 1-3 ACC) failed to score before the first media timeout, throwing up wild shots and making poor decisions as they didn’t know what hit them. It didn’t get any better after that. Virginia Tech guards Erick Green (24) and Malcolm Delaney (19) combined for 43 points to overwhelm the Terps’ backcourt. The Hokies shredded the Terps with 42 of their 74 points coming in the paint. The Hokies’ zone defense collapsed the lane — holding Jordan Williams to just two points in the first half and 11 for the game — as Maryland’s guards failed to knock down perimeter shots. Maryland’s starters combined for just eight points in the first half. And aside from

Maryland-Virginia Tech pre-game notes

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Turtle Power live chat at 9:00 for tonight’s contest between Maryland and Virginia Tech.*** COLLEGE PARK, Md. — As Baltimore continues to lick its wounds from the Ravens’ disappointing exit from the postseason last weekend, the Terps take center stage after suffering their own Saturday collapse against Villanova in Philadelphia, surrendering a 12-point, second-half lead on their way to a 74-66 loss. Needing a win to boost their spirits after a disappointing 1-2 road trip, the Terps (11-6, 1-2 ACC) return to College Park to host the Virginia Tech Hokies (11-5, 2-2) tonight at 9:00 in a nationally-televised game on ESPN2. Maryland’s six losses have come by a combined 35 points, but after coming up empty in the non-conference schedule in terms of impressive wins — and no, a meeting with Longwood on February 9 won’t help — the Terps need to begin stacking wins in the Atlantic Coast Conference. The Hokies enter tonight’s game at 2-2 in the ACC with a 29-point win over lowly Wake Forest last Saturday. Virginia Tech is led by senior guard (and Baltimore native) Malcolm Delaney, who averages just under 19 points a game and had some not-so-flattering remarks about

5 lowest moments of the Ravens-Steelers rivalry

Luke Jones

You have to remember where you’ve been in order to get where you want to go. In this case, Ravens fans can only hope it’s a trip to the AFC Championship after a win at Heinz Field on Saturday after countless disappointments against their biggest rivals. Perhaps you’ve clicked this link because you’re a football masochist, secretly preparing yourself for the worst should Baltimore fall short yet again with the stakes as high as they’ve been since the conference championship game two years ago. A bloodcurdling look back at the low points in the history of the Ravens-Steelers rivalry reminds us that as enjoyable as the highs have been for the Ravens, the lows have been that much more devastating over the 15 years the two teams have battled on the gridiron. Beating the Steelers on Saturday would immediately become the greatest Baltimore moment in the rivalry’s history while a loss would only mark the latest chapter of bitter disappointment. With a few honorable mentions to get things started, here are the five lowest Baltimore moments of the Ravens-Steelers rivalry: Honorable mention >>>

Terps take care of Wake Forest, 74-55, for 1st ACC win

Luke Jones

Fresh off a tough loss at No. 1 Duke and looking ahead to an imposing trip to No. 7 Villanova on Saturday, Maryland desperately needed a victory over lowly Wake Forest Wednesday night. It wasn’t the prettiest of performances, but the Terps handled the Demon Deacons, 74-55, for their first conference win after starting 0-2 in the ACC for just the eighth time in Gary Williams’ 22 years at Maryland. Celebrating his 22nd birthday, Cliff Tucker led all scorers with 21 points to counterbalance an off night from Jordan Williams. The senior has reached double-digit scoring in five straight games after being relegated to reserve duties following a loss to Boston College last month. Williams shot just 2-for-13 and was frustrated by the collapsing Wake Forest zone for much of the night. Ironically, Williams’ strong free-throw shooting (9-for-14) allowed him to record his 10th straight double-double as the big man finished with 13 points and 15 rebounds. Williams is now only two double-doubles away from the school record of 12 set by Len Elmore in the 1973-74 season. Maryland (11-5, 1-2 ACC) started slowly in the second half, allowing the Demon Deacons (7-10, 0-2 ACC) to close to within six

Top 5 moments of the Ravens-Steelers rivalry

Luke Jones

Saturday marks the 33rd meeting (including playoffs) between the Ravens and Steelers in the 15 years since the NFL returned to Baltimore. With Pittsburgh holding a 20-12 all-time edge and always coming out on top when the stakes are at their highest, the highlights are admittedly scarce from the Baltimore perspective despite the matchup blossoming into the most intense rivalry in the NFL. A conflict bred from off-field venom and disdain (circa 2001) has morphed into mutual respect and even tighter competition in recent years as the last six meetings in the regular season have been decided by four or fewer points (the Steelers won 23-14 victory in the 2008 AFC Championship). The divisional-round encounter will add another memorable chapter to Baltimore-Pittsburgh lore, but before looking ahead to potential triumph or bitter disappointment, we look back at the top 5 moments (with a couple honorable mentions added for good measure) in the history of Ravens vs. Steelers — from the Baltimore perspective. And for our Pittsburgh brethren lurking and ready to chime in, be sure to check back later in the week for the five worst moments in the Ravens-Steelers rivalry. Honorable mention >>>

Terps battle, fall short in 71-64 loss to No. 1 Duke

Luke Jones

It’s a theme becoming all too familiar for Gary Williams and the inexperienced Terps this season. They’ve competed admirably against the better teams on their schedule, still managing to fall short every time. But when you consider Maryland had lost its previous two trips to Cameron Indoor Stadium by a combined 62 points — with Greivis Vasquez leading the way, mind you — it’s hard to feel too discouraged after a narrow 71-64 loss to top-ranked Duke Sunday night. In a game even the most optimistic fans didn’t give the Terps much of a chance to win, they scratched and clawed for 40 minutes, giving the undefeated Blue Devils everything they could handle. Maryland dictated the tempo for much of the game, playing aggressive defense in the paint and challenging passing lanes to the tune of 16 Duke turnovers. Despite having three freshmen play key minutes, the Terps never looked intimidated like so many opponents do when traveling to Durham and facing the Cameron Crazies. Sophomore Jordan Williams was again terrific, scoring 23 points and grabbing 13 rebounds for his ninth consecutive double-double against a Duke defense that collapsed the lane on the forward most of the evening. It was

Maryland faces No. 1 Duke: Turtle Power live chat at 8:00

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Turtle Power live chat at 8:00*** Maryland handed No. 1 Duke its last loss over 10 months ago, a 79-72 victory at the Comcast Center on March 3. Unfortunately, the Terps (10-4, 0-1 ACC) no longer have the talents of Greivis Vasquez leading them into the always-imposing Cameron Indoor Stadium as Maryland tries to grab its first signature win of the season Sunday night. The Blue Devils (14-0, 1-0 ACC) haven’t fallen since that electric night in College Park, winning the ACC tournament and national championship last season and picking up exactly where they left off behind seniors Nolan Smith (19.6 points per game) and Kyle Singler (17.4 points per contest) this season. Maryland continues to look for its first signature win of the season, suffering narrow losses to Pitt, Illinois, Temple, and Boston College by a total of 20 points. Sophomore Jordan Williams will look for his ninth straight double-double as he averages 17.6 points and 11.8 rebounds per game to lead the Terps. Winning at Cameron will be a daunting task for a Maryland team that hasn’t done it since Vasquez was a freshman in 2007. Sunday’s meeting will be the final chance for

Terps beat Colgate in 95-40 laugher as sobering challenge awaits in Durham

Luke Jones

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The game wasn’t over at tip-off, but it was pretty darn close. After freshman Pat Moore’s opening bucket gave Colgate a 2-0 lead, Maryland’s 22-0 run led to a dominating 95-40 win at Comcast Center on Tuesday night. With the easy victory, the Terps closed out a month-long homestand with a three-game winning streak, albeit against less-than-stellar competition. Forward Jordan Williams earned his eight straight double-double and 12th of the season, continuing his early-season dominance with 12 points and 11 rebounds. Senior Adrian Bowie led all scorers with 16 points, continuing his strong play since being shifted to the off-guard position late last month. Earning his first career start at point guard, Terrell Stoglin added 12 points and four assists as coach Gary Williams continues to search for the right answer in the backcourt. Fellow freshman Pe’Shon Howard had started at the point the last two games following the loss to Boston College last month. “I think [Stoglin] did a great job,” said Dino Gregory, one of five Terps scoring in double figures with 12 points. “He brought a lot of energy to the game. He brought a lot of defensive energy, a lot of offensive

Maryland-Colgate pre-game notes

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Turtle Power live chat at 8:00*** COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The Terps bring in the new year and conclude their month-long homestand with a non-conference meeting with the Colgate Raiders (1-11) this evening at Comcast Center. Fresh off an 85-62 victory over North Florida last Wednesday, Maryland (9-4, 0-1 ACC) plays its final tuneup before an imposing trip to Cameron Indoor Stadium to take on No. 1 Duke Sunday night. The Raiders’ lone win of the season came Sunday in an 80-61 result over Longwood, a team Maryland plays later this season and embarrassed by 51 points last year. Tonight’s game will be televised on CSN+ with Steve Buckhantz (“Dagger!”) and Glenn Consor providing the call. As always, be sure to follow us on Twitter (@WNST) for the latest updates and analysis from College Park and in the Turtle Power live chat right here at WNST.net!

Maryland plays it safe in hiring Edsall

Luke Jones

A volatile three weeks at the University of Maryland culminated with an underwhelming decision Sunday afternoon. Despite rampant rumors of Mike Leach bringing his “Air Raid” offense to College Park — along with the baggage attached to the talented, but controversial coach — Maryland ultimately played it safe with the hiring of Randy Edsall less than 24 hours after his Connecticut team fell to Oklahoma in the Fiesta Bowl. Full disclosure is needed before I continue. The 52-year-old and I both attended Susquehannock High School in Glen Rock, Pa. (a brief 40-minute drive from Baltimore up I-83 for those wondering). It’s not often that the new head coach of a college football program that you cover just happens to be a fellow “Warrior,” so I took a personal interest when Edsall’s name was gaining steam last week. That said, I’ve never met the man and am only privy to second-hand information from mutual acquaintances still residing in the area. Edsall is a highly-respected, hard-working coach who even returned to his alma mater to speak at graduation just a few years ago. Maryland football supporters are undoubtedly scratching their heads that a man coming from such an ordinary program has been

Reports: Orioles agree to 1-year deal with 1B Derrek Lee

Luke Jones

Determined not to start the new year without a first baseman, the Orioles have reached a one-year agreement with veteran Derrek Lee, according to several sources. The 35-year-old had been in talks with the Orioles and several other teams throughout the offseason after playing for the Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves last season. Lee hit .260 with 19 home runs and 80 runs batted in in 2010 before undergoing thumb surgery last month. Lee is a career .282 hitter with 312 home runs in his 14-year career with the Padres, Marlins, Cubs, and Braves. He is a two-time All Star and has won three Gold Gloves. Speculation persisted for several weeks that the Orioles were targeting Adam LaRoche after Lee had originally spurned the Orioles’ initial interest, but a diminishing number of starting first-base jobs likely persuaded the veteran to accept Baltimore’s offer. Lee becomes the third new member of the projected starting infield in 2011, joining third baseman Mark Reynolds and shortstop J.J. Hardy who were acquired in separate trades earlier this offseason.

Live from Owings Mills: Heap set to return Sunday, E. Reed back at practice

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Completing their final practice of the calendar year, the Ravens are aiming for a positive start to 2011 against the Cincinnati Bengals Sunday afternoon at M&T Bank Stadium. Baltimore (11-4) saw two player return to the practice field Friday and appears to be in good shape physically for the regular-season finale. To no one’s surprise, safety Ed Reed (neck) was present at the open portion of practice, confirming speculation that Thursday was an impromptu day off for the veteran dealing with a number of ailments over the last few seasons. “It was just precautionary,” coach John Harbaugh said. “He was a little bit tight, and we just felt like giving him a chance to recover a little bit and rest up. We do that with some guys this time of year.” Also returning to the practice field was linebacker Prescott Burgess (illness) after missing two days with the flu bug that has worked its way through the training complex in Owings Mills in recent weeks. Safety Tom Zbikowski (back) and linebacker Tavares Gooden (shoulder) did not practice and were the only players not participating fully in the Friday session. Zbikowski was not expected to play against

Maryland receiver T. Smith declares for NFL Draft

Luke Jones

WASHINGTON — With all eyes focused on the departing Ralph Friedgen in the Terps’ 51-20 victory over East Carolina in the Military Bowl, Torrey Smith was also playing his final game. The receiver announced after Wednesday’s game that he will forego his senior season and enter the 2011 NFL Draft, ending weeks of speculation. The speedy junior graduated earlier this month and has received positive reports regarding his draft status, but would not elaborate on any draft report specifics when he announced his decision. “It makes [the decision to go pro] a whole lot easier when you have the people you respect the most supporting your decision,” Smith said. “It was definitely a tough decision, but it was one coach Friedgen was comfortable with, [wide receivers coach Lee Hull], [director of character education] Kevin Glover. It just made me feel better about it.” In his final game, Smith was held to just two catches for 10 yards. He led the Terps with 67 receptions, 1,055 receiving yards, and 12 touchdown catches this season. Smith also set a school-record four touchdown receptions against North Carolina State last month in what turned out to be his final game in College Park.

Friedgen leaves on high note as Terps demolish ECU

Luke Jones

WASHINGTON — With the backdrop of Maryland’s dominating 51-20 victory over East Carolina in the Military Bowl serving as a final act, it was obvious who the day was really about. For just a few hours on Wednesday afternoon in front of 38,062 at RFK Stadium, Ralph Friedgen was able to put aside the sleepless nights and disappointment and do what he loves one more time: coach his Maryland Terrapins to victory. There were no mentions of Mike Leach and his potential arrival in College Park. The day wasn’t about athletic director Kevin Anderson who so clearly exercised his clout over the last two weeks. Declining season-ticket sales and unsold luxury suites were afterthoughts as the Terps rushed for 297 yards against a porous Pirates defense. And even his assistant coaches were able to go out and do their jobs despite not knowing where their future lies — in College Park or anywhere else for that matter. For the last time as head coach of the Terrapins, Friedgen coached his team to victory in convincing fashion, finishing a 9-4 season and a seven-win improvement from the disastrous 2-10 record of a year ago. The Powerade coolers received plenty of use

Maryland-ECU in Military Bowl: Pre-Game Notes

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Turtle Power live chat for Military Bowl coverage live from RFK Stadium*** WASHINGTON — With the chaotic circumstances surrounding the Maryland football program over the last two weeks, Ralph Friedgen will coach his final game as Terrapins head coach against East Carolina in the Military Bowl this afternoon at RFK Stadium. In what’s certain to be an emotional atmosphere, the Terps, however, will be without four players due to academic reasons. Defensive end Drew Gloster, receivers Quintin McCree and Ronnie Tyler, and guard Pete White are ineligible to play against the Pirates. There should be no shortage of points this afternoon (2:30, ESPN) as East Carolina averages 38.2 points per game (12th in the nation) while Maryland has scored 30.7 points per contest (41st). Of course, the difference will show defensively as the Pirates surrender 43.4 points per game (118th in the nation) while Don Brown’s unit surrenders a respectable 22.3 (37th). Two talented quarterbacks will be on display as Maryland’s Danny O’Brien (21 touchdowns) has had a sensational freshman season, earning ACC Rookie of the Year honors, to lead the Terps to a six-game improvement from last year’s disastrous 2-10 season. ECU quarterback Dominique Davis

Live from Owings Mills: Heap a game-time decision as Ravens eye playoff spot

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. –With a festive mood surrounding the training complex at 1 Winning Drive, the Ravens were making final preparations for Sunday’s showdown in Cleveland. Despite the Pittsburgh Steelers maintaining control of the AFC North with a convincing victory over Carolina Thursday, the Ravens will clinch their third straight playoff berth with a victory over the 5-9 Browns, losers of four of their last six. Tight end Todd Heap practiced for the third straight day, an indication that the veteran will have a realistic chance to play Sunday after missing the last two games with a hamstring injury. He was seen running pass patterns during the portion of practice open to the media on Friday and is listed as questionable on the team’s official injury report. “I think he’s done really well. He just told me he felt very good [after Friday’s practice],” coach John Harbaugh said. “I think we’ll wait until game time, just to see for sure and see how it feels up there with the weather and everything and make a decision right before the game.” The Ravens have been cautious with their starting tight end, given his history of hamstring issues during his 10-year career.

Ravens CB Wilson discusses Friedgen firing and Terps football

Luke Jones

The abrupt firing of Maryland football coach Ralph Friedgen has garnered plenty of negative reaction from those connected to the program on a variety of levels. So it was surprising to hear Ravens cornerback and former Terrapin Josh Wilson’s comments supporting the decision to remove the man with whom he shares a special bond and even invited — along with Friedgen’s wife Gloria — to his wedding. “Whatever the decision is that [athletic director Kevin Anderson and the university] made, I think they made it in the best interest of Maryland football,” Wilson said. “Whenever they make a decision like that, they’re looking out for the future and what’s best for the team. If they felt that was the best thing to do, then so be it and I support them.” Wilson’s bond with Friedgen runs much deeper than his four years in College Park from 2003 to 2006. Working as a graduate assistant at Maryland in the early 1970s, Friedgen briefly coached Wilson’s father Tim, who went on to play eight years as a fullback in the NFL. Tim passed away due to a heart attack in 1996 when his son was only 11 years old, but Josh would

Terps flatten NJIT as Howard steps into starting role

Luke Jones

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Rarely has the focus of Maryland athletics been solely on football so late in December during Gary Williams’ 22-year tenure in College Park, but the drastic changes of the last week would overshadow any top basketball program. The lack of buzz is also due in part to the utter mystery surrounding Gary Williams’ young team as it plays out a string of three nondescript games before traveling to Durham to face Duke on January 9. The Terps have competed well with top-25 teams, but they haven’t beaten any either. Through the season’s first dozen games, Williams continues to search for the right combination in the backcourt to complement the dominating inside presence of sophomore Jordan Williams. Returning to the hardwood Wednesday night after a nine-day layoff, the Terps cruised to a 89-50 victory over lowly NJIT that highlighted the shortcomings of the Highlanders more than any real potential of this Maryland team. In the final 3:54 of the first half, Maryland used a 20-1 run to turn a comfortable 16-point lead into a comical 53-18 halftime deficit. However, the significant story to come from the blowout victory was a new lineup sent out by Gary Williams

Ralph Friedgen following Franklin out the door at Maryland?

Luke Jones

On the same day former offensive coordinator James Franklin officially became the head coach at Vanderbilt, an even bigger bombshell is brewing in College Park. Comcast SportsNet’s Chick Hernandez is reporting the University of Maryland has asked Ralph Friedgen to accept a buyout of the final year of his contract, potentially ending his 10-year run as head coach of the Terps. New athletic director Kevin Anderson previously stated last month that Friedgen would return to coach in 2011, but the departure of Franklin — previously the coach-in-waiting and Maryland’s top recruiter — may have accelerated his desire to make a new mark on a program that’s struggled in recent years despite a successful 8-4 campaign this season. Friedgen was named the 2010 ACC Coach of the Year following a six-game turnaround from a year ago. In a teleconference regarding Franklin’s exit on Friday afternoon, Anderson would not confirm Friedgen’s return in 2011. The athletic director also said he did not make a counteroffer to persuade Franklin to remain with the Terps, adding fuel to the speculative fire that he’s aiming to clean house. Maryland will play East Carolina in the Military Bowl on December 29 in a game now looking

Franklin’s departure significant to future of Maryland football

Luke Jones

The report of offensive coordinator James Franklin accepting an offer to become the head coach at Vanderbilt provides conflicting feelings if you’re a supporter of Maryland football. On one hand, the coach-in-waiting was the program’s heavyweight recruiter, a charismatic 38-year-old who can make the connections with young football players that current head coach Ralph Friedgen cannot at the age of 63. Franklin was entrusted to revitalize recruiting after the program plateaued — or regressed — in recent years after Friedgen’s success at the beginning of his 10-season tenure. Following a 2-10 season in 2009 when it looked like the futures of both Friedgen and Franklin were in doubt, it was redshirt freshman Danny O’Brien — heavily recruited out of Kernersville, N.C. by the offensive coordinator — who stabilized the quarterback position and led the Terps to an improbable 8-4 season and trip to the Military Bowl against East Carolina on December 29. It likely saved the jobs of both men as new athletic director Kevin Anderson was settling into the job formerly held by Debbie Yow, who orchestrated the coach-in-waiting agreement nearly two years ago. And here is where feelings begin to conflict regarding Franklin’s departure for the Commodores and

Maryland collapses late in 79-75 loss to Boston College

Luke Jones

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The scowl on the face of Gary Williams said it all as the Maryland coach walked off the Comcast Center floor moments after the final buzzer. In his mind, this was one that got away from the Terps. The Terps and Boston College went toe-to-toe for 38 minutes in an ACC opener that had the intensity of a late-February battle. Leading 75-72 with 2:44 to play, Maryland would not score again, missing free throws and taking ill-advised shots in a 79-75 loss to the Eagles. It was just the latest example of a close game in which the Terps couldn’t do enough to secure a victory against a quality opponent, dropping them to 7-4 and 0-1 in ACC play. The loss spoiled another sensational performance by sophomore Jordan Williams who scored 27 points and grabbed 13 rebounds, earning his ninth double-double of the season. “We missed a couple free throws, took a couple bad shots, and were not patient on offense,” Jordan Williams said. “We went away from what we wanted to do on offense when they took a three-point lead, and we didn’t execute well.” In the final 2:12 of the game, the Terps missed

LIVE!!! Terps host Boston College in ACC Opener: Turtle Power chat NOW!

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Turtle Power chat starting at 4:00 p.m. for Maryland-Boston College*** COLLEGE PARK, Md. — With finals week looming and the holidays just around the corner, the Maryland Terrapins (7-3) are focused on their Atlantic Coast Conference opener as they host the Boston College Eagles (7-2) at Comcast Center this afternoon at 4:00 p.m. Maryland will not resume conference play until Jan. 9 when they travel to Durham to take on top-ranked Duke, but Gary Williams and the Terps desperately want to start the conference schedule on a positive note. After non-conference losses to Pitt, Illinois, and Temple, Maryland’s NCAA tournament hopes will largely depend on their fate in what looks to be a wide-open conference once you look past the dominant Blue Devils at the top. The Terps are fresh off a 99-56 victory over lowly UNC Greensboro on Wednesday night as four players scored in double figures. Jordan Williams led the way with 23 points and 13 rebounds, good for his eighth double-double of the season and fourth straight. Boston College is led by new coach Steve Donahue, who led Cornell to the Sweet 16 last March before agreeing to become the new coach of

Heap out, Washington questionable in Houston tonight

Luke Jones

OWINGS MILLS, Md. — Though most of the week’s conversation has been focused on the fallout from the loss to Pittsburgh, the Ravens made final preparations Saturday for a meeting with the 5-7 Houston Texans on Monday night. The team practiced indoors Saturday although the Reliant Stadium roof is currently scheduled to be open for the prime-time encounter in Houston. “I thought we had a very good practice today, and I thought we had an excellent week of practice,” Ravens coach John Harbaugh said. “One thing about our guys, they’re professionals. It’s a tough loss, and I think everyone has a tough time getting over it – fans, coaches, players. [This team] means a lot to all of us.” Tight end Todd Heap (hamstring) and cornerback Fabian Washington (thigh) were again absent from practice Saturday. Heap was officially ruled out for Monday’s game after not practicing all week with an injured hamstring sustained on the first play of the game last Sunday. Harbaugh held one last sliver of hope following Saturday’s practice before Heap was ruled unfit to go against the Texans on the injury report. “Realistically, it would probably be tough for him to get back,” said Harbaugh, who

T. Smith, O’Brien with record days in Maryland’s 38-31 win over NC State

Luke Jones

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — On a day in which 16 seniors were honored in their final game at Byrd Stadium, it was a junior and freshman who stole the show for the Terps. Maryland crushed North Carolina State’s Atlantic Division title hopes behind four touchdown passes from Danny O’Brien to Torrey Smith in a record-breaking performance in a 38-31 victory Saturday night. O’Brien finished with a career-high 417 yards passing, the first 400-yard game by a Maryland quarterback since Scott Milanovich in 1993. The redshirt freshman finished the regular season having thrown 21 touchdown passes to just six interceptions. “I think we did a good job taking what they gave us,” O’Brien said. “Early on, we had the underneath stuff and then we made some plays downfield late. I think we wore them down a little bit. It was just a great team win.” O’Brien’s most impressive throw came in the third quarter when he rolled to his left — the more difficult direction from which to throw as a right-handed quarterback — and found a double-covered Torrey Smith in the end zone in what amounted to be a six-inch window to throw, according to the Maryland coach. “I see

LIVE!!! Maryland-NC State: Turtle Power chat NOW

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Turtle Power live chat starting at 3:30 p.m.*** COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Despite being eliminated from the ACC Atlantic Division race last Saturday, the Maryland Terrapins (7-4, 4-3 ACC) have a spoiler role in mind as well as improving their postseason bowl status as they host North Carolina State (8-3, 5-2 ACC) in the regular season finale at 3:30 p.m. It remains to be seen how significant a victory would be in terms of an improved bowl destination, but the Terps can ruin the Wolfpack’s ACC title game hopes with a win, which would vault Florida State to a meeting with Virginia Tech next Saturday in Charlotte. Of course, with former athletic director Debbie Yow now holding the same position at NC State, this one has extra incentive for Ralph Friedgen and the Terrapins. The contest pits star quarterback Russell Wilson against Maryland’s freshman Danny O’Brien in a battle of two talented quarterbacks, albeit in some windy conditions at Byrd Stadium. If recent history tells us anything, we can expect this one to be a close one. Nine of the last 10 contests between Maryland and NC State (seven of them won by the Terps) have

Terps fall in heartbreaker to Florida State, 30-16

Luke Jones

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — The final score failed to tell just how competitive Maryland was against Florida State Saturday night. The Terps fell 30-16 to the Seminoles, ending their improbable dream of winning the Atlantic Division and advancing to the ACC championship game in two weeks. Maryland found itself in position to tie the game with under a minute left until Danny O’Brien threw a fourth-down interception at the 19 that was returned 96 yards by Nick Moody for a touchdown. Maryland played much of the night like a team fully expecting to win and looked like they could do it through the game’s first three quarters. Despite losing three offensive linemen to injuries — a unit already decimated this season — the Terps compiled 432 yards, including 163 on the ground against one of the better run defenses in the nation. And despite allowing long touchdowns of 70 and 44 yards, the defense held Florida State to just four conversions on 14 third-down plays. Misfortune also played a part in the fourth quarter when an O’Brien pass intercepted by Greg Reid appeared to hit the ground, but was upheld after official review. Even after the interception gave Florida State

Maryland-Florida State pre-game notes

Luke Jones

COLLEGE PARK, Md. — With ramifications no one would have predicted back in September, the Maryland Terrapins (7-3, 4-2 ACC) prepare to take on the Florida State Seminoles (7-3, 5-2 ACC) in a “blackout” at Byrd Stadium with the Atlantic Division crown still hanging in the balance with two games remaining in the regular season. Fresh off Thursday’s announcement that Ralph Friedgen would return for his 11th season as Maryland coach next season, the Terps control their own destiny in the final two weeks, needing wins against the Seminoles and N.C. State next Saturday to grab the division title and advance to the ACC championship game in Charlotte on Dec. 4. Coming off a 2-10 season in which seemingly everything went wrong for the Terps, Maryland has already improved its win total by five games behind the surprising play of freshman quarterback Danny O’Brien, who has earned ACC Rookie of the Week honors four times. He ranks fourth in the ACC in passing efficiency (133.5) and fourth among FBS (Div. 1-A) freshmen. After turnovers plagued the Terps last season, they now possess an efficient offense that has turned the ball over a league-low eight times and rank 38th nationally in

Maryland-Duke pre-game notes

Luke Jones

***Join us in the Turtle Power live chat as Maryland battles Duke at Comcast Center beginning at 9:00*** COLLEGE PARK,

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