Navy
and Maryland
will meet for just the second time since 1965 on an ESPN feature contest this Monday in NCAAF.
spread odds betting odds handicapping pick betting line
Both programs appear to be heading in opposite directions,
but don't be surprised if this contest plays a little tighter than expected.
Navy Midshipmen @
Maryland Terrapins Matchup
College Football Betting Line: Navy -6.5
Total: 48.5
The Maryland Terrapins Can Win Because...:
Regardless of their record last season, they still have more
talent than Navy.
The Maryland Terrapins are coming off one of the worst seasons in school
history. They finished just 2-10 in 2009 and head coach Ralph Friedgen should
consider himself lucky to still have his job.
They've clearly moved into the ACC basement but they still
do have some things going for them. Namely, quarterback Jamarr Robinson who is
athletic both running and passing. He started just two games last year, saw
action in five and didn't throw an interception in 85 attempts.
Navy's defense is being retooled and the fact that they have
to replace last year's three starters at linebacker could lead for some
openings for running backs Da'Rel Scott and Davin Meggett.
The Terps also have some good speed at wide receiver in
Torrey Smith. Navy can't really matchup talent-wise as the Terps do have some athletic
playmakers.
The issue for Maryland
really isn't talent; last year the offensive line was so bad that running game
couldn't get going and the quarterbacks were running for their lives. With
three starters back along the offensive line, if they can improve, Maryland should have an effective
offense. They have plenty of talent at the skill positions.
The Navy Midshipmen Should
Win Because...:
Their running game is relentless and nearly unstoppable.
The Terps may have a very underrated trio of linebackers,
but they may be making plays far down the field as the Navy Midshipmen are running
by them.
Not only is Navy's triple option offense normally tough to
stop, it's even harder when a talented, veteran quarterback like Ricky Dobbs is
running the show. He broke Tim Tebow's record of rushing touchdowns in 2009
when he ran for 27 and he makes those around him better, which includes the
bulldozing fullback Vince Murray.
This triple-option is always a load to handle, including for
a Maryland
defense that often times lacks discipline.
Top Navy Midshipmen vs. Maryland Terrapins Betting Action at Bodog.com
Outlook &
Football Betting Prediction:
It's an all-Maryland NCAAF betting on Monday and it is very much a contrast of styles. Maryland has the better talent but Navy is
the better squad overall.
The real story of this game will be told by two of Maryland's units: the
linebacking corps and the offensive line. If the offensive line is improved
over last year, the Terps should be able to move the ball effectively in this
game and hang around .And secondly, if the linebackers can play with
discipline, they might be able to spring an upset.
Navy is a team on the rise and while they'll probably win
this game, don't be surprised if the Terps make this closer than expected.
College Football Pick: Navy Midshipmen