COLLEGE PARK, Md. —Michigan showcased its depth and resilience on Saturday, rolling to a 45–20 win over Maryland despite multiple injuries in the backfield. The victory sends the Wolverines (9–2, 7–1 Big Ten, No. 18 CFP) into next weekend’s showdown with top-ranked Ohio State on a four-game winning streak and with their most productive offensive outing in conference play this season.
Running back Bryson Kuzdzal carried the offensive load, rushing for 100 yards and three touchdowns as Michigan dominated on the ground even without the injured Justice Haynes and Jordan Marshall.
“Really proud of this team,” head coach Sherrone Moore said. “They stayed locked in all week and never looked ahead, even with what’s coming next Saturday.”
Freshman QB Duel Goes Michigan’s Way
Highly touted freshmen Bryce Underwood (Michigan) and Malik Washington (Maryland) went throw-for-throw in a matchup of emerging Big Ten talents. Maryland (4–7, 1–7) struck first on the opening drive, but the Terrapins couldn’t stop their slide, dropping their seventh straight game.
Underwood finished with 215 yards and two touchdown passes, while Washington threw for 210 yards, a touchdown, and an interception.
Wolverines Take Control Early
With the score even at 7–7 in the first quarter, Underwood dodged a potential interception when Lavain Scruggs couldn’t haul in a pass that hit his hands. Michigan capitalized moments later, as Kuzdzal powered in from 2 yards out to give the Wolverines their first lead.
A pick by linebacker Mason Curtis set up another short field, and Underwood struck quickly with a 22-yard touchdown pass to Donaven McCulley to stretch the advantage to 21–7.
Kuzdzal Keeps Rolling
Michigan pulled away after halftime thanks to two more Kuzdzal touchdowns—runs of 19 and 1 yards. Jasper Parker added a 6-yard scoring run in the fourth, pushing the lead to 42–13 before Maryland tacked on a late score.
“We were doing a pretty solid job against the run for a while,” Maryland defensive back Jalen Huskey said. “It got away from us late in the third and fourth, but that’s something we can build on.”
Injury Concerns Linger for Michigan
Underwood enters the rivalry game on a high note, but Michigan’s backfield depth could be tested again next week. In addition to Haynes and Marshall, fullback Max Bredeson was seen on crutches during the second half.
Early Gamble Fails for Maryland
Following Washington’s opening 1-yard touchdown pass to Dorian Fleming, Maryland attempted a surprise onside kick. Michigan recovered and answered swiftly with a 12-yard strike from Underwood to Andrew Marsh to tie the game.
Takeaways
Michigan:
A week after five turnovers nearly derailed them against Northwestern, the Wolverines delivered a clean, efficient performance. If they can topple Ohio State, their playoff résumé will look significantly stronger.
Maryland:
The Terps will finish with a losing record for the second straight season. Washington appears to be a building block for the future, but Maryland must upgrade its rushing attack and run defense to take a step forward.
Staying on the Field
Michigan’s offense was nearly unstoppable on third down, converting its first seven attempts and finishing 12-for-14. The Wolverines never punted; their only empty drives were a missed field goal and the closing sequences of each half.
Up Next:
Michigan: Hosts Ohio State in a pivotal rivalry matchup on Saturday.
Maryland: Travels to Detroit to face Michigan State.
