2003 Statistics

CLEMSON

Quarterback
Ask the Baltimore/Washington locals who the starting QB will be, and you are likely to hear silence. Not even the coaches know yet. The probable candidate is the only one with game experience, Georgia native Joel Statham. His only spotlight came against Georgia Tech after starter Scott McBrien left early with a head injury. In the 7-3 defeat, Statham didn't do much to enlighten an offensive snoozer. Look for local DeMatha H.S. standout Ryan Mitch to make a case for the job. If this redshirt freshman doesn't take the reigns, big Pennsylvania recruit Jordan Steffy will stride into August camp with a rare shot as a true freshman. The QB position is Maryland's biggest question mark and weakness until developed.

Running Back
The tailback job belongs to Josh Allen, the premier back from '03. Bruce Perry has finally moved on, but a rotation of sorts still remains likely, as powerful Sam Maldonado would then get a good many reps. Sam and Josh would form a great combo, with speed to go the distance and short yardage grinding when needed, too. As well, highly regarded recruit Keon Lattimore will finally get a shot at TB. His explosiveness gives the Terps yet another option and fresh legs for fourth quarter rejuvenation for worn-out DLs. At FB, only two players are vying for playing time (Ricardo Dickerson, who also plays rush end on defense, and Maurice Smith). Both are blockers; so don't look for many carries or catches out of the FB.

Wide Receiver
At least the new QB will have a stable of experienced receivers from which to choose. This is Maryland's deepest unit on both sides of the ball. However, the lack of an all-star caliber standout makes this group more of a positive by committee. A big key will be the probable elevation of All-American special teams player Steve Suter. Now a senior, he needs to become more of a threat than just a 20-30 receptions prototype. The Terps are blessed with some speed in Jo Jo Walker, an athlete with the versatility to play the slot or the outside, and Derrick Fenner, the team's fastest receiver. Although undersized, the most gifted of the group is Dan Melendez (175 pounds). Don't forget about senior Rich Parson, who was described by Friedgen on numerous occasions last year as the team's most consistent receiver. All will be key in helping to develop the new QB, whoever is tapped.

Tight End
The Terrapins will suffer another significant loss here, but a handful of qualified candidates are in the fold. At 6'8, Derek Miller becomes their biggest target and likely the starter to begin the fall. Watch out for Vernon Davis from nearby Dunbar High School (Washington, DC), rated the third-best tight end in the nation by ESPN.com in 2002. His 4.4 speed in the 40-yard dash and outstanding athleticism allows him to play a number of multiple positions. Davis is a star ready to be born.

Offensive Line
Issues existed last fall on the OL, a plight that doomed early expectations after a few key injuries. The return of NationalChamps.net All-American C.J. Brooks at OG will be the basis of the line's foundation. Kyle Schmitt provides another experienced option at center, but, once again, the depth up front is young and has yet to show a capacity to dominate. The situation has progressed well past that of 2003. Coach Friedgen managed to land a successful recruiting class just two seasons ago in terms of linemen, so it's time to find out just how much will translate to success(es)/wins.

OFFENSIVE BREAKDOWN
The skill positions are a mixed bag. The Terrapins will be fine at RB and WR with plenty of depth and options to utilize. The glaring concern is at QB, where none have played any Division I ball - minus a brief appearance by Joel Statham. This system under Friedgen is complex, so again expect this to spell a slow start. How fast the QB matures will determine the team's 2004 fate.

The protection up front, in very simple terms, will be better than good, but not stellar. Look for opposing defenses to load the box in an attempt to take Allen and the other RBs out of any plans. But, alas, the Terps have to run to be successful; so, until the QB shows an ability to beat defenses with his arm, it's fairly obvious early success depends upon the ability to score by handing off the pigskin.

Linebacker
This mix of youngsters may be the most talented of any unit on the team. Once again however, experience is short. The veteran of the group is Shawne Merriman at LEO (LEO is a hybrid DE and LB), who just posted 8.5 sacks as part of the ACC's #1 ranked defense of 2003. The strongside LB will feature a pair of walk-ons - David Holloway and Jeris Smith. A year ago at this time, the big question was "who replaces 'Butkus Award'-winner E.J. Henderson in the middle?" That answer was found in young D'Qwell Jackson, the teams leading returning tackler. Jackson is another one of those ball hawks that just seems to wind up where needed on every play. Beware of redshirt frosh Wesley Jefferson on the weakside, SuperPrep's #1 rated linebacker nationally in 2002. Wesley should be moving on up; it's just too bad 'Jefferson Cleaners' is patented.

Defensive Back
How do you replace ¾ of this devastating secondary from a season ago? Gone are the long-time names of Wilson, Williams and Cox. The lonely returning man is Domonique Foxworth at CB. A preseason All-American for NationalChamps.net last spring, Foxworth seemed to fade as a standout in that talented 2003 pack. His numbers were still better than descent. His importance, though, cannot be overstated for 2004. On the other side, JUCO-transfer Reuben Haigler starts atop the depth chart after redshirting last season. He offers quality attributes with speed and solid cover skills. Strong safety is anyone's guess. Once the future at QB for Maryland, Chris Kelley now finds himself in the mix at this position after two major knee surgeries forced the move. Hard-hitting Marcus Wimbush, if he can ever get healthy, has a great chance at serious playing time. The most experienced safety is Ray Custis, who topped the team's list of Iron Terps in 2003 (weight room honors).

DEFENSIVE BREAKDOWN
Whew! Talk about completely renovated. Maryland has one lineman, one linebacker and one defensive back that could be considered returning starters. It's hard to imagine the Terrapins making a run at any type of conference crown in the new ACC with this set-up. Not only are the replacements raw, they have very little to offer in terms of snaps under their belt.