Eric Boggs 
David Braun celebrates a big win over Big Ten foe Maryland on Friday night.
Northwestern pulled away from Maryland in the fourth quarter to secure a 37-10 victory Friday night, marking the Wildcats’ first Big Ten win of the season. Defensive end Aidan Hubbard’s pivotal fumble recovery for a touchdown helped Northwestern break the game open, capitalizing on Maryland’s season-high four turnovers.
In what was the fourth start of his college career, Northwestern quarterback Jack Lausch delivered a steady performance, throwing for 203 yards and rushing for a first-quarter touchdown. Cam Porter and Jake Arthurs also found the end zone on the ground, while kicker Luke Akers was perfect on three field goal attempts, adding to the Wildcats’ advantage.
Maryland (3-3, 0-3) struggled throughout the game, despite outgaining Northwestern in total yardage 355-283. Quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. led the Terrapins on a pair of long drives, rushing for a 1-yard touchdown in the second quarter to bring Maryland within striking distance. But mistakes plagued the Terps, as they fumbled away multiple opportunities in the final quarter.
The game’s decisive moment came early in the fourth quarter, with Northwestern clinging to a 17-10 lead. Edwards was blindsided by Northwestern defensive tackle Carmine Bastone, who forced a fumble that Hubbard scooped up at the 2-yard line and carried into the end zone. It was the first of three turnovers in the final period for Maryland, as Northwestern outscored them 20-3 in the closing minutes.
“We talk about valuing the football,” Northwestern head coach David Braun said. “Winning the turnover margin was huge for us tonight, and it was the key to our victory.”
Maryland’s defense kept the game within reach during the third quarter, holding the Wildcats to just 11 total yards. However, the offense couldn’t capitalize, and a dropped pass on fourth down ended one promising drive. The Terps added a field goal early in the fourth to cut the lead to 17-10, but the Wildcats quickly seized control.
For Northwestern (3-3, 1-2), the win was a team effort, highlighted by an opportunistic defense and efficient special teams play. Akers, normally the team’s punter and kickoff specialist, added placekicking duties and drilled field goals of 43, 38, and 40 yards, while wide receiver Bryce Kirtz contributed with 123 yards on three catches.
Maryland coach Mike Locksley, who took over playcalling duties from offensive coordinator Josh Gattis after the open date, expressed frustration with his team’s performance. “We’re here to compete and win championships,” Locksley said. “Today, we took a step back, but we’ll turn this frustration into something positive.”
The Terps now face a challenging second-half schedule that includes Southern California, Oregon, and Penn State, with their bowl hopes hanging in the balance. Meanwhile, Northwestern looks to build on this win as they prepare to host Wisconsin on October 19.
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