Historical Context
The Ohio State Buckeyes and the Maryland Terrapins share a relatively young rivalry, particularly when compared to some of the more established rivalries in college football.
Ohio State Buckeyes Overview
- Founded in 1890, Ohio State University has a storied football program.
- The Buckeyes have claimed multiple national championships and produced numerous NFL players.
- Known for their iconic stadium, Ohio Stadium, often referred to as "The Horseshoe."
Maryland Terrapins Overview
- The University of Maryland established its football program in 1887, making it one of the oldest in the nation.
- Maryland has had several successful seasons, including a national championship in 1953.
- The Terrapins play their home games at Maryland Stadium, which has seen significant renovations over the years.
Evolution of the Rivalry
The rivalry between Ohio State and Maryland took shape after Maryland joined the Big Ten Conference in 2014. This move significantly impacted both programs, as it brought new competition and increased visibility in the college football landscape.
Early Encounters
Before their meetings in the Big Ten, Ohio State and Maryland faced each other infrequently. The first matchup occurred in the 1977 season, where Ohio State came out on top. However, the interactions were limited, primarily due to conference affiliations.
Big Ten Era Begins
With Maryland's entry into the Big Ten, the frequency of matchups increased, and the stakes grew higher.
- 2014: The teams met for the first time as conference opponents, with Ohio State winning decisively.
- 2015: Another matchup occurred, further establishing the rivalry.
This new era brought about intense competition, as both teams sought to assert their dominance in the conference.
Key Matchups and Moments
Over the years, several key games have stood out in the Ohio State vs Maryland football history.
Memorable Games
1. 2014 - Ohio State 52, Maryland 24: The inaugural Big Ten matchup was a showcase of Ohio State's power, as they dominated the Terrapins.
2. 2016 - Ohio State 62, Maryland 3: This matchup was marked by an overwhelming performance from the Buckeyes, demonstrating their strength as a top-tier program.
3. 2018 - Ohio State 52, Maryland 51 (OT): One of the most thrilling contests, this game highlighted Maryland's resilience. The Terrapins pushed Ohio State to the brink, leading to a nail-biting overtime finish.
4. 2020 - Ohio State 73, Maryland 14: This game was a statement win for the Buckeyes, showcasing their offensive firepower and depth.
Notable Players
Both programs have produced remarkable talent over the years, contributing to their histories.
- Ohio State Notables:
- Eddie George: 1995 Heisman Trophy winner.
- Troy Smith: 2006 Heisman Trophy winner and key player in Ohio State's national title run.
- Justin Fields: Star quarterback who led the Buckeyes to the College Football Playoff.
- Maryland Notables:
- Boomer Esiason: Former NFL MVP and Pro Bowl quarterback.
- Darrius Heyward-Bey: First-round NFL draft pick known for his speed and playmaking ability.
- Tua Tagovailoa: Star quarterback who made headlines during his time at Alabama before transferring to Maryland.
Coaching Legacies
Coaching plays a pivotal role in shaping the trajectory of any football program.
Ohio State Coaches
- Woody Hayes (1951-1978): One of the most legendary coaches in college football history, Hayes laid the foundation for Ohio State's football dominance.
- Jim Tressel (2001-2010): Led the Buckeyes to a national championship in 2002 and several Big Ten titles.
- Urban Meyer (2012-2018): Another national championship-winning coach, Meyer led Ohio State during a period of intense success.
- Ryan Day (2019-present): Continuing the tradition of excellence, Day has maintained Ohio State's status as a national contender.
Maryland Coaches
- Jerry Claiborne (1982-1986): Helped elevate the program during his tenure.
- Ralph Friedgen (2001-2010): Under Friedgen, Maryland won the ACC and made significant strides in competitiveness.
- DJ Durkin (2016-2018): His tenure was marked by controversy but also revitalized interest in the program.
- Mike Locksley (2019-present): Aims to restore Maryland's football program to prominence in the Big Ten.
Implications of the Rivalry
The Ohio State vs Maryland rivalry has implications that extend beyond the field.
Recruitment and Player Development
- The matchups often influence recruiting efforts, with top high school prospects keenly watching these games to gauge the programs.
- Both teams have invested in facilities and resources, striving to attract elite talent.
Fan Engagement and Community Impact
- The rivalry generates significant excitement among fans, with game days becoming communal events that bring together alumni and supporters.
- Both universities engage with their local communities, enhancing the cultural significance of their football programs.
Looking Ahead
As college football continues to evolve with shifting conference alignments and playoff formats, the Ohio State vs Maryland rivalry remains a vital aspect of both programs' identities.
- Future Matchups: The ongoing competition will likely see more thrilling encounters, with both teams striving for conference titles and playoff berths.
- Rivalry Growth: As Maryland continues to build its program under Mike Locksley, the rivalry could intensify, leading to more dramatic games and memorable moments.
Conclusion
The history of Ohio State vs Maryland football is still being written, but the pages already tell a story of competition, passion, and the pursuit of excellence. As both programs look toward the future, fans can expect more exciting matchups that will further enrich this young but significant rivalry in the annals of college football.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the all-time record between Ohio State and Maryland in football?
As of the end of the 2022 season, Ohio State leads the all-time series against Maryland with a record of 49 wins, 15 losses, and 2 ties.
When did Ohio State and Maryland first meet in football?
Ohio State and Maryland first met in football on October 8, 1950.
What notable game did Ohio State and Maryland play in 2018?
In 2018, Ohio State and Maryland played a thrilling game where Ohio State won 52-51 in overtime, making it one of the closest contests in their history.
How has Ohio State fared against Maryland since the Terrapins joined the Big Ten?
Since Maryland joined the Big Ten in 2014, Ohio State has maintained a strong record against them, winning every matchup up to the 2022 season.
What year did Maryland achieve its first victory over Ohio State?
Maryland achieved its first victory over Ohio State on November 17, 2018, winning 52-51 in an exciting game.
Which Ohio State player holds the record for most passing yards in a game against Maryland?
Dwayne Haskins set the record for most passing yards in a game against Maryland with 405 yards on October 6, 2018.
What has been the general trend in Ohio State's performance against Maryland over the years?
Overall, Ohio State has been dominant in its matchups against Maryland, consistently winning due to strong recruiting and performance, particularly in recent years.
