Friedgen pondering change at kickoff return for Terps

Maryland's kickoff return unit improved one spot in the national rankings this week.

It is now 119th, next-to-last, after producing five returns for 95 yards in a 31-7 loss at Clemson.

With junior Torrey Smith (ankle) still ailing and the rest of the return unit struggling, coach Ralph Friedgen is looking at substantial changes.

That includes switching the return man. Smith and Trenton Hughes split time yesterday, though Hughes fumbled one of his attempts.

Other possibilities exist. Cornerbacks Avery Graham and Dexter McDougle, safety Kenny Tate, tailback Da'Rel Scott and wideout/punt returner Tony Logan could also receive a look.

Logan, who is thriving this season as a punt returner, is an intriguing option, but might not wind up filling in for Smith.

"We have thought about that," Friedgen said. "What makes Tony a very good punt returner isn't always the best thing for him as a kickoff returner. A kickoff returner needs to get down downhill right away, split people and then make moves. Tony's real strength is he can make that first guy miss. Torrey isn't 100 percent, and we need to come up with a better answer.

Friedgen said Graham would be a viable option and might have played Saturday. But the redshirt freshman didn't make the trip because of a groin injury.

Friedgen's preference is to use an offensive player as a return man, given their familiarity with ball security drills. That would seem to make Logan and Scott more viable options.

Assuming, of course, a change is made.

Comments

[Terpfan2011]

Who would've believed someone would say Scott and Ball Security in the same sentence, and with a positive light this time last year.

[ngaterp]

Kick off returns is about speed more than moves, so what about McCree or Graham, are they not two of the fastest guys on the team? As for ball security I thought Graham played offense in high school? I doubt he has forgot how to hold onto the ball in a year and half..

[blackirish]

clueless (ˈkluːlɪs)

— adj
slang helpless; unaware; Bankins; Friedgen