Those paying particularly close attention to tomorrow's Maryland-Florida International game will probably keep an eye on Pete DeSouza, the Terrapins' first-time starter at right tackle.
DeSouza is playing in only his third game, and it's common sense that the Golden Panthers will try to attack a perceived vulnerability.
More often than not, a redshirt freshman of any kind making his first start will draw that sort of attention. Still, coach Ralph Friedgen is optimistic about DeSouza's chances.
"Pete's had a very good week of practice," Friedgen said. "I think Pete got his feet wet the last two games he's played. I'm hoping the offensive line comes out and well this week. I think they practiced very hard and had a very good week of practice. Now I'd like to see them come out and have some success, especially running the football."
While DeSouza acclimates himself to starting, this could be an opportunity for Max Garcia to get his first action at left tackle. Garcia has yet to play and would become the fourth true freshman to appear this season if he gets in.
Linebacker David Mackall and safeties Desmond Kearse and Matt Robinson have already appeared in games.
If Garcia plays, it would be the sixth time in nine years Maryland used a true freshman on the offensive line. The others: Stephon Heyer (2002), Scott Burley (2004), Jared Gaither (2005), Bruce Campbell (2007) and Bennett Fulper (2009).
Still, it remains a bit of an if for Garcia --- at least this week.
"I think if the opportunity presents itself," Friedgen said. "We just have to see how the game goes. But I think he's ready to play. He had a pretty good week of practice and actually seemed better at tackle than guard. i think a lot of that depends on how the game goes and how well [R.J.] Dill's doing, too."
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