For the first time in six years the Maryland Terrapins football team will start a season with a new head coach. Randall Edsall is out. DJ Durkin is in.
Durkin came to College Park from Michigan, where he was the defensive coordinator for the Wolverines.
“There’s excitement from all of us. You get through training camp, you’re ready to play a game,” Durkin said. “I’m going to do my best as a head coach now as opposed to a coordinator.”
When he was hired at age 37, Durkin became the Terps’ youngest head football coach since 1954.
“The way Coach Durkin is leading this team, there’s no chances left on the table,” said Terps linebacker Jalen Brooks. “We’re going all out. I’m excited beyond words for the season.”
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While Durkin represents all that is new with the Terps, it’s actually an old face that will be starting at quarterback. Senior Perry Hills makes his third career season-opening start on Saturday.
“I think Perry can do a lot of really good things on the field,” said Durkin. “He’s dangerous running, throws a great deep ball, has a grasp of our offense right now. We can definitely convert and move the ball with him throwing.”
“Perry is a gritty and passionate leader. We’re all behind him going forward. His decision-making is great,” said center Brendan Moore.
Maryland hosts the Howard University Bison on Saturday. Kickoff is set for Noon.
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