By Sebastian Obando
Despite the chaotic quarterback situation he inherited after Randy Edsall’s firing, Locksley immediately appointed redshirt junior Perry Hills as his starting quarterback. Although Hills lost a close 31-30 contest against Penn State last Saturday in Locksley’s head coaching debut, Hills did not disappoint.
Hills completed 19 of 28 passes for 225 yards and a touchdown against a reputable Penn State defense, marking the first time that a Terp quarterback threw for more than 200 yards since the team’s last win against USF on September 19. Moreover, the offense finally seemed to gain a sense of rhythm, as the unit was averaging a dismal 272 total yards in their past three contests against West Virginia, Michigan, and Ohio State. Despite this improvement in offense, however, turnovers continue to be a problem for the Terps, as Hills threw three interceptions on Saturday.
Against Iowa this weekend, the Terps will face yet another challenge versus a stout defense. The Hawkeyes have the third best defensive unit in the BIG 10 this season, allowing only 294 yards per game. For this reason, the Terps will be looking to utilize the run to open up lanes in the passing game, using the rushing abilities of running back Brandon Ross, Hills, and even defensive back Will Likely. Despite the passing attack struggles, Locksley ensured the Terps will have some success running the football, citing Hills’ ability to scramble as a key asset to the Terps’ offense.
“What [Hills] skillset brings to the table typically will allow us to be able to run the football because now it forces the defense to play sound football,” Locksley said. “It helps neutralize some of the weaknesses we have from a size and strength standpoint.”
Along with his playmaking abilities, Locksley discussed the positive attitude of Hills. Locksley repeated on numerous occasions on Tuesday’s press conference the perseverance and drive Hills displays in the face of adversity, and his will to improve. Hills was benched earlier this year after his performance against Bowling Green on September 12 in favor of Caleb Rowe, before Locksley reinstated him as a starter.
“Perry is a great player. I think his confidence is allowing him to do what he has been doing. He is a good runner and a good passer and a good playmaker,” wide receiver Amba Etta-Tawo said. “I feel like every week he is continuing to get better and better.”
