Jake Funk is ready for an increased role after a solid freshman season for Maryland football

Profiles in Terpage is back for 2017. Last week, we focused on quarterbacks; this week, we’re looking at all of Maryland’s running backs.

Jake Funk, RB, No. 34

Height: 5’11
Weight: 207 lbs.
Year: Sophomore
Hometown: Gaithersburg, Maryland
High School: Damascus High School

How He Got to College Park

A three-star prospect in the Class of 2016, Funk was the No. 34 player in Maryland on the 247Sports Composite. In his final season at Damascus High School, he rushed for a total of 2,866 yards and 56 touchdowns. Funk enrolled early at Maryland last year and was able to get a head start.

Funk came into the season low on the depth chart, but he slowly worked his way up by the end of the season, in part due to Lorenzo Harrison’s legal issues. He finished the year with 136 yards on the ground with one rushing touchdown and 42 yards receiving with one touchdown. Funk also earned consistent playing time on special teams, making 12 tackles and returning three kicks for 49 total yards.

Career Highlight

Funk only touched the ball 36 times in 2016 and wasn’t much of an offensive threat for the season. His most memorable highlight from his freshman season was his first touchdown, which he scored in his first game against Howard.

Yet, Funk is best known for his dominant season as a high school senior, which includes a seven-touchdown performance for Damascus in the 2016 state championship game.

2017 Prospectus

If Funk’s responsibilities are going to increase this season, they will be on special teams and specific situations on offense. Especially with such a crowded backfield, Funk’s versatility is his strength, as he is able to do a little bit of everything out of the backfield. However, with talented running backs ahead of him on the depth chart, it’s hard to say exactly how Maryland will use Funk.

Dream Season

Despite once again starting low on the depth chart, Funk proves himself a reliable running back who can contribute in many different ways on offense and special teams. He earns increased playing time in short-yardage situations and passing downs while continuing to be a constant on all aspects of Maryland’s special teams unit.

Up next

This Florida native is ready to contribute after redshirting in 2016.

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