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Athletics

Terps Come Back to Top #23 Texas, 34–29

McNair Honored With Moment of Silence, Empty Spot on Field for 1st Offensive Play

Hero 090118fball08 1920x1080 Team captains Brett Kulka and Taivon Jacobs return to the sidelines after bringing teammate Jordan McNair’s No. 79 jersey out to midfield for the coin toss. (Photos by Greg Fiume/Maryland Athletics)
Team captains Brett Kulka and Taivon Jacobs return to the sidelines after bringing teammate Jordan McNair’s No. 79 jersey out to midfield for the coin toss. (Photos by Greg Fiume/Maryland Athletics)

Maryland emerged from a trying offseason with an emotionally charged 34–29 upset of No. 23 Texas on Saturday, shaking off a lengthy weather delay to give Matt Canada a satisfying victory in his debut at the Terrapins' interim coach.

After blowing a 24–7 lead, Maryland forced three turnovers in the final 6:09 and scored the game's final 10 points to stun the Longhorns in the opener for the second year in a row.

Maryland has dedicated its season to offensive lineman Jordan McNair, who died in June, 15 days after collapsing from heatstroke during a team workout. The Terrapins paid tribute to McNair by lining up with 10 players on their first offensive play of the game. Maryland waited for a delay of game to be called, and Texas declined the penalty in a show of sportsmanship.

Maryland players wore a sticker with No. 79 on their helmets and emerged from the tunnel with one of his former teammates carrying a red flag, also emblazoned with McNair's number. In addition, there was a moment of silence before the game.

“I just can't say enough about our players, everything they've been through and the way they stuck together," Canada said. "It was a great way to honor Jordan. This was a win for Jordan. We're certainly proud of our team, proud of our program.”

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Terps hold a moment of silence in honor of McNair prior to Saturday’s kickoff vs. the Texas Longhorns.
Offensive lineman Ellis McKennie, a high school teammate of McNair, waves a flag with McNair’s jersey number, 79, in remembrance.
Each Maryland football player wears a helmet sticker with No. 79 to honor McNair.
Maryland honors slain Capital Gazette writer John McNamara ’83, who covered Terps sports for decades, with an empty seat and flowers in the FedEx Field press box.
On their first offensive play, Maryland Terrapins football team members line up with an empty right guard spot in honor of McNair.
Sophomore quarterback Kasim Hill attempts a pass in Saturday’s win over Texas, 34-29.
Freshman wide receiver Brian Cobbs makes a leaping grab over Texas cornerback Kobe Boyce.
Sophomore running back Tayon Fleet-Davis dives into the end zone for a 17-yard touchdown run.
Junior punter Wade Lees and Athletic Director Damon Evans share their excitement after the team’s victory over Texas.
The Terps celebrate in the locker room following Saturday’s win over Texas, 34-29.

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