Maryland · Big TenMaryland’s 2026 reset rests on Malik Washington and a softer schedule
Maryland brings back quarterback Malik Washington after consecutive 4-8 seasons, while its returning talent and easier schedule offer a path back to bowl contention. The harder part is separating a favorable setup from a team that has not finished above .500 since 2023.
AUG 22, 2026
Maryland’s record in each of the past two seasons
Consecutive bowl seasons from 2021 through 2023
The season in which Malik Washington returns at quarterback
01 · The NewsWhat Happened
Mike Jaixen’s Maryland preview identifies Malik Washington’s return at quarterback as the starting point for the Terrapins in 2026. Maryland has followed three straight bowl seasons from 2021 through 2023 with back-to-back 4-8 finishes. The program also enters the year with a lot of returning talent and an easier schedule, according to the preview. Dave Bartoo recently criticized Maryland, while Phil Steele’s outlook gives the Terrapins a more favorable reading. No specific win total, depth-chart battle, or statistical projection is provided. Washington is back. Maryland now has to turn a better setup into something different on Saturdays.
“significant in a sense that they peaked in 2022 and 2023.”
— Josh Pate · watch the moment →