Jeremy Navarre Doug Benc/Getty Images

Linebacker Dave Philistin (34) Doug Benc/Getty Images

Jordan Steffy Doug Benc/Getty Images

Quarterback Jordan Steffy (19) Doug Benc/Getty Images

Running back Da'Rel Scott (23) Doug Benc/Getty Images

Defensive end Jeremy Navarre (40) Doug Benc/Getty Images

Four downs for Maryland

Date published: 8/26/2008

Jordan Steffy (right) came to Maryland as the Terps' most heralded quarterback recruit in decades. But a combination of injuries and inconsistency have limited him to two career TD passes. He beat out incumbent Chris Turner for the No. 1 job and has four of five returning starters on the line, plus more talent at receiver than he's enjoyed in his career. If he delivers, the Terps can reach a third straight bowl.

Last season, seniors Lance Ball and Keon Lattimore combined to rush for 1,573 yards and 25 touchdowns. But both are now in NFL training camps, leaving a major void in the backfield behind Steffy. Sophomore Da'Rel Scott's major contributions have been on kick returns. His spring was also cut short by a knee injury, True freshman Davin Meggett is his primary backup.

After allowing 147 rushing yards per game last season (third-worst in the ACC), the Terps switched from a 4-3 defensive alignment to a 3-4 that should showcase their talent and depth at linbeacker. Maryland isn't big up front, but Dave Philistin, Moise Fokou, Trey Covington and Alex Wujciak should make lots of tackles. Covington will play a hybrid "Leo" position that will involve both pass-rushing and coverage.

In 2006, Maryland went 6-1 in games decided by a touchdown or less, always seeming to make the big play at the opportune time. Last year, the Terps were 2-5 in such decisions, faltering late against Wake Forest and Virginia. There's enough experience to reverse that trend, but the Terps will need leadership from seniors like DE Jeremy Navarre (below), LB Dave Philistin and TD Dan Gronkowski.

Date published: 8/26/2008