Maryland rushed for 64 yards, including 48 by its running backs, in Saturday’s 35-26 loss to Virginia Tech. Coach Mike Locksley said Tuesday the offense must improve its run blocking; Iverson Howard and Harry Dalton III averaged 2.8 yards per carry.
Pass protection has been more effective than run blocking: Maryland has allowed three sacks this season, but all seven offensive linemen with the most snaps have PFF run-blocking grades below 75. Center Michael Hershey has an 89.5 pass-blocking grade, while guard Ryan Howerton’s run-blocking grade is 52.9, the lowest among Maryland linemen.
Maryland is also without injured running back DeJuan Williams, whom Locksley called a 15-touch player, and has incorporated Chris Durr Jr. since Terez Worthy went out. Locksley said the offense will keep working on blocking movement and use perimeter plays that can function as runs.
