Maryland Falls to Notre Dame in NCAA Tournament, 7-5

There's a bit of irony in the way Maryland's season ended. Presented with what seemed to be the easiest path to the final in the tournament, they stumbled before getting through the first gate. It's notable, too, that a very similar situation occurred last year, with reversed roles (Maryland defeated the then-undefeated Notre Dame). But regardless of all the little things that make this loss quirky, the final outcome doesn't change: Maryland lost today to Notre Dame, 7-5, in an NCAA tournament quarterfinal in which they never led.

The Fighting Irish took the lead from the start and were up 4-1 at the end of the first quarter. It never got any closer until Maryland reached the final margin in the third quarter. Soon after that, Notre Dame's notoriously stingy defense packed it in and Maryland's offense ground to a halt.

For the second week in a row, I couldn't watch the game. Of course, this time most of you missed parts of it too (thanks, ESPN!). Sometimes, it's better not to watch. This was probably one of those times.

Maryland also continued their now-35-year titleless stretch, and Dave Cottle continued his poor performance in these types of games. His contract is up; I don't see much reason to resign him at the moment.

I guess there's always next year.