COLLEGE PARK, Md. — Freshman Quarterback Malik Washington Shines as Maryland Fends Off Northern Illinois 20–9
In a gritty, low-scoring contest under the Friday night lights, freshman quarterback Malik Washington delivered when it mattered most, lifting Maryland to a 20–9 victory over Northern Illinois at SECU Stadium.
Washington, in just his second collegiate start, passed for 254 yards and two touchdowns, including a clutch 42-yard strike to Shaleak Knotts on a pivotal fourth-down play late in the third quarter. The win pushes Maryland to 2–0 on the season and extends the Terrapins’ nonconference winning streak to 17 games—the longest active streak in the nation.
“This is exactly the kind of game we needed,” said head coach Michael Locksley. “A game where we had to stay composed, battle through four quarters, and respond when tested. I never felt like our guys lost control.”
Breakthrough Moments
Maryland’s offense sputtered at times, but it was Washington’s pair of touchdown throws that proved decisive. He connected with Dorian Fleming on a 12-yard score in the second quarter, and later, with the Terrapins clinging to a 13–9 lead, he found Knotts streaking downfield on a gutsy fourth-and-5 play. Knotts got behind the defense and walked into the end zone after hauling in the perfectly placed deep ball.
“I just trusted my guys and stayed patient,” said Washington. “You don’t know how many chances you’ll get, so you’ve got to make them count.”
Northern Illinois Can’t Find Offensive Rhythm
The Huskies (1–1), who famously upset Notre Dame in Week 2 last season, failed to generate consistent offense. Their lone explosive moment came from Telly Johnson, who broke free for a 74-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. Outside of that, the Terps’ defense stifled Northern Illinois, holding them to just 91 passing yards.
Division II transfer Chavon Wright carried the load on the ground for the Huskies, finishing with 90 yards on 27 touches.
Coaching Gamble Falls Short
After Johnson’s long run made it 13–9, Huskies head coach Thomas Hammock elected to go for a two-point conversion instead of tying the game. Quarterback Josh Holst’s pass fell incomplete.
“I didn’t want to play for a tie,” Hammock explained. “The analytics said kick, but I wanted clarity on what we’d need moving forward. We had a solid play call, just didn’t execute.”
Maryland Defense Impresses Again
Following their dominant 39–7 win over Florida Atlantic, Maryland’s defense continued to show progress, especially in coverage. The Terrapins have now allowed just 16 total points through two games—their fewest to start a season since 2001, when they went on to win the ACC.
“We’re contesting throws much better than last season,” Locksley said. “Man coverage has really tightened up. I still think we need more pressure up front, but our positioning in coverage has been spot-on.”
Looking Ahead
Maryland will host Towson next Saturday as they look to continue their strong start to the season.
Northern Illinois enters a bye week before visiting Mississippi State on September 20 in another tough Power Five matchup.
