Did you know that Maryland has 14 true or redshirt freshmen listed on the two-deep depth chart?
From the sound of it, coach Randy Edsall is trying to send a message. We'll have more on this in the next few days.
Sophomore defensive linemen David Mackall says his coach wants the team to know that he will elevate or demote players based on their work ethic and level of passion for the game. The message seems to be that juniors or seniors can be benched, and freshmen elevated. Or vice-versa.
Consider this quote from Edsall on why he's starting (on special teams) freshmen receiver Tyrek Cheeseboro, linebacker Cole Farrand and defensive back A.J. Hendy against Towson on Saturday.
"I see things out of (those three) that I don't see out of other guys," Edsall said.
There is a calculated risk, of course., that talented players can be alienated. Edsall says he's been coaching for more than 30 years and knows what he's doing.
Slowly, this is becoming a new team. Remember that there were 13 players from the Friedgen era who still had eligibility but are not with this season's Terps.
By the way, there are several young players that Mackall particularly likes. He singled out defensive linemen Keith Bowers, receiver Marcus Leak and running back Brandon Ross.
"Keith Bowers and Marcus Leak. Both of them work hard and you can tell they have a passion for the game. But both of them share the same issue and that's getting the mental part of the game," Mackall said.
"Marcus has strong hands -- he can run good routes and go up for the ball," Mackall said. "And Brandon Ross? I've played with a lot of running backs. And I've got to say Brandon Ross is the quickest running back I've played against right now."
And finally: Maryland will wear red jerseys with black pants and helmets Saturday against Towson.