Three key matchups: what to look for as the Terps travel to the Big House

Devin Gardner vs. Cole Farrand

There haven't been many spectacular offensive games from the Michigan Wolverines this season, but they are coming off a two-game win streak after starting out 3-5. The offense runs through their quarterback Devin Gardner, but the senior, who's manned the offense for three seasons now, has struggled at times this season. Last game Gardner inched his way to only 109 yards through the air as the Wolverines barely escaped Northwestern 10-9 in large part to Michigan's defensive play. If Maryland, led by senior linebacker Cole Farrand can limit Gardner, they will likely leave the Big House with their fifth win away from home. Farrand recording 18 tackles last game and will likely build off that effort.

Jake Ryan vs. C.J. Brown

In a strikingly similar matchup as the first one listed, whether Terp faithful likes it or not, the offense runs around the success of C.J. Brown. Brown has been notorious this season for making terrible decisions deep in Maryland's own territory, leading to easy scores for the opposition. If Maryland stands a chance in winning this game, Brown needs to emphasize ball protection and throw to the guys in White Ops uniforms. Michigan will be hurting up the middle as the team dismissed defensive lineman Frank Clark after a domestic violence arrest, but will look to Jake Ryan to stop the bleeding. Michigan's defense is stifling and look no further than Ryan, the leading tackler to plug the middle and halt Maryland's running game on his senior night.

Devin Funchess vs. Will Likely

Although Devin Funchess' production has decreased and mirrored that of his quarterback as the season went on, he still possesses great athleticism and is due for a strong performance. The junior wide out started the season off hot, scoring three times in the season opener but only scoring once since then. Will Likely, the breakout star this season for the Terps, leads the team with five interceptions, including two for touchdowns. Likely had a ball slip through his fingertips last game and will look for redemption as the defensive backs face a very inconsistent passer in Gardner.