The Terrapin defense continues its relentless pressure on Clemson, forcing two turnovers that turned into points, as Maryland trails by six heading into the fourth quarter.
Early in the period, the Maryland defense made a huge play. Tajh Boyd swung the ball out to Sammy Watkins on the left side, and Matt Robinson forced the fumble. Darius Kilgo pounced on it for the Terrapins' first turnover forced in ACC play, and Maryland got the ball deep in Clemson territory. After three poor offensive plays, Brad Craddock hit a tough 41-yard field goal in the wind, bringing the Tiger lead down to 16-10.
On Clemson's next play from scrimmage, Marcus Whitfield forced another fumble. Robinson recovered, giving Maryland the ball at the 26. The offense stalled again, but Craddock hit another 41-yarder, making it 16-13.
Boyd and Clemson moved down the field on their next drive, and on third-and-goal from the seven, the quarterback seemed to find an open receiver over the middle. Shawn Petty seemingly came out of nowhere to jump up and deflect the pass, and the player who quarterbacked the Terps in last year's contest made a key play in this one. Clemson hit yet another field goal -- their fourth of the game -- to make it 19-13.
Maryland's next drive started with their first first down of the half, as Rowe found Levern Jacobs on a screen pass for a 12-yard gain. Penalties caused them stall out, however, and Clemson got the ball back. Maryland forced a punt, and began to drive down the field, with two first downs before punting the ball away before the end of the quarter.