Six is the magic number for each college football team in the nation. Getting to six wins on the season means bowl eligibility.

Maryland, with a record of 4-6, needs to win its final two games to have a chance. 

Head coach Michael Locksley describes this final stretch of the season as “playoff football” as the Terps just have to win to advance.

The path to bowl eligibility is clear. With games against Iowa, and then a road game against Penn State, Maryland controls its destiny to get to six wins and a bowl game.

The opportunity to play in a bowl game does not just mean an extra game. It is also an opportunity to keep the team together for an extra month before preparation for the next season.

Seniors get the chance to play in an extra game, and freshmen get more practice to develop their skills. 

Starting running back Roman Hemby said  reaching bowl eligibility is  “definitely motivating…that’s something we are striving to reach.”

The Terps’ final stretch to become bowl-eligible for the fourth straight year has an uphill climb after the team’s 31-17 loss to Rutgers on Saturday.

Winning out wins means another bowl game for the Maryland Terrapins, a spot where they are 3-0 under Coach Michael Locksley, all three coming in the last three seasons.

While this season has had its ups and downs, the team controls its destiny to finish the season strong.