Virginia Tech enters Week 3 in search of its first non-conference win since 2017, while Maryland is looking to continue a 20-game win streak against non-conference opponents. One of the most intriguing matchups on paper will be how the Terrapins’ offensive line can manage a Virginia Tech defensive front that leads the nation in sack percentage and tackles for loss through two games. Mind you, those wins came against VMI and Old Dominion. If QB Malik Washington is given time in the pocket, he’s proven capable of making big plays consistently. In the Terps’ win over UConn, he finished 34-41 for 347 yards and 2 TDs, featuring a stretch of 18-straight completions. Maryland also had two 100-yard receivers in the same game for the first time since 2023, meaning the Virginia Tech defense has multiple weapons to focus on.
On the other side, I’ve been more impressed with Maryland’s defense overall. The Terps rank third nationally in sack percentage, top-10 in turnover margin and have allowed only 14 points through two weeks. Maryland has proven capable of generating pressure defensively, while there are some concerns regarding Virginia Tech’s ability to establish the run. VT was held to only 2.1 yards per carry on 42 attempts against Old Dominion; if the Hokies can’t get the run game going, they’ll be forced to win on third down. That’s a tall task against this Maryland defense, which allows only 26.9% third-down conversions. With all things considered, I’ve got Maryland covering at home.
Virginia Tech vs Maryland prediction: Maryland +3 (-110) available at time of publishing.
