A look at which true freshmen are most likely to play this season
With the Terps' season opener in Austin right around the corner, TSR takes a look at the true freshmen most likely to see the field this season.
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Maryland head coach DJ Durkin ended up playing 17 true freshman a season ago. And while the Terps aren't likely to play quite that many newcomers this season, several are in line for early playing time this season. A look at each below.
Hill battled sophomore Tyrrell Pigrome for the starting quarterback job throughout fall camp, coming up just short. Now listed second on the depth chart, Hill will very likely see live action this season playing behind a quarterback that is known more for his running ability than his arm.
McFarland might come as a bit of a surprise, seeing that he isn't listed on the Terps' initial two-deep. But offensive coordinator Walt Bell likes to play multiple tailbacks and McFarland had an impressive fall camp. It wouldn't be shocking to see him get a carry or two in the Terps' opener at Texas.
An early enrollee, Bell was likely to be part of a rotation at safety for the Terps' season opener at Texas before being suspended indefinitely. Should the suspension be lifted, look for Bell to work his way back into the two-deep and see the field at some point this season. Bell has the size and talent to eventually become the starter this year.
A four-star from Virginia Beach who was recruited as both a wide receiver and defensive back, Capehart had an impressive fall camp for the Terps at wideout, earning a spot in the two-deep and wowing fans with a spectacular one-handed catch during an open practice. Look for Capehart to play early for Maryland.
Although the Terps appear to have five entrenched starters along the offensive line, Minor saw first-team reps at both right tackle and left guard during fall camp. Currently listed in the two-deep as a backup at right tackle, Minor is likely to be the first o-lineman off the bench should any of those entrenched starters go down at any point this season.
Leake is another running back that had an impressive fall camp for the Terps, with an excellent combination of size and athleticism. Like McFarland, despite not being listed in the two-deep, Leake could very well see some carries early in the season and is a prime candidate to see work on special teams.
Another early enrollee, Brand has impressed coaches and teammates alike with his play at the BUCK position, earning a spot in the two-deep. And while starter Jesse Aniebonam will see the bulk of the snaps, Brand has a chance to be part of the pass rusher rotation for the Terps this season along with junior Melvin Keihn.