Malik Washington Leads Maryland’s Historic Big Ten Debut: Terps Dominate Wisconsin 27-10

Freshman Quarterback Makes History in Road Conference Victory

MADISON, WI — In a statement performance that will be remembered for years to come, true freshman quarterback Malik Washington led the Maryland Terrapins to a resounding 27-10 victory over Wisconsin in their Big Ten conference opener, marking a historic milestone for the program.

Game Snapshot

• Maryland Record: 4-0 (1-0 Big Ten)
• Wisconsin Record: 2-2 (0-1 Big Ten)
• Venue: Camp Randall Stadium
• Attendance: 68,547
• Weather: Sunny, 70°F, South Wind 6 mph

Scoring Breakdown by Quarter

1st Quarter Maryland 7 – 0 Wisconsin | 2nd Quarter Maryland 20 – 0 Wisconsin | 3rd Quarter Maryland 20 – 3 Wisconsin | 4th Quarter Maryland 27 – 10 Wisconsin

Washington’s Record-Breaking Performance

Washington didn’t just win the game; he rewrote the record books. The freshman quarterback completed 18 of 34 passes for 265 yards and two touchdowns, becoming the fifth Power Conference quarterback to start his career with four consecutive 250+ yard performances. His eight passing touchdowns through the first four games tie him with Dylan Raiola and Dante Moore for the most by a Power Conference true freshman quarterback since 2020.

Team Statistics Highlights

• Total Offense: Maryland 326 yards, Wisconsin 296 yards
• Passing Yards: Washington 265, O’Neil 120
• Rushing Yards: Both teams 61 yards
• Turnovers: Maryland 0, Wisconsin 1
• Sacks: Maryland 5, Wisconsin 1

Dominant First Half

Maryland’s dominance was evident from the opening drive. The Terps’ defense and special teams set the tone early, blocking a Wisconsin field goal attempt and forcing an interception that set up Washington’s first rushing touchdown. By halftime, Maryland had built an unprecedented 20-0 lead — their largest shutout halftime margin in a Big Ten road game since joining the conference in 2014.

Key Offensive Moments

Washington’s 62-yard touchdown pass to Shaleak Knotts in the fourth quarter was the dagger, effectively sealing the Terps’ victory. Knotts, who now has a receiving touchdown in all four games this season, has been a critical component of Maryland’s offensive success.

Maryland News:

• Maryland Eyes Historic Breakthrough Against Wisconsin in Big Ten Opener
• Maryland Dominates Towson 44-17, Extends Perfect Start to 3-0
• Maryland Holds Strong in 20-9 Victory Over Northern Illinois

Defensive Brilliance

The Terrapins’ defense was equally impressive, holding Wisconsin to just three points through the first three quarters. The team continued its impressive streak of generating pressure, recording five sacks and maintaining its trend of at least three sacks in each game this season.

Historic Significance

This victory is more than just a win. It’s Maryland’s first-ever victory against Wisconsin and its first Big Ten opener win in three of the past five years. The performance signals a potential turning point for the program under head coach Michael Locksley.

Coach’s Perspective

“We’re super proud of this team,” Locksley said. “Big Ten road wins are not easy to come by. I really liked our physicality that we played with on defense. We made enough plays on offense and took advantage of the opportunities given to us.”

Washington’s Reflection

For the freshman quarterback, the moment was surreal. “It was really fun,” Washington said. “We stayed together. I believed in us from the start. We put in so much work in the offseason and during camp.”

By the Numbers

• Malik Washington: 265 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
• Shaleak Knotts: 3 receptions, 80 yards, 2 TDs
• Maryland Sacks: 5
• First Half Shutout: 20-0

Looking Ahead

Maryland will have a bye week before facing Washington on October 4th, looking to carry this momentum forward.

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