The Five Surprising Stats That Could Turn Wisconsin vs. Maryland Week 4 Into an Unforgettable Showdown

After getting handed a tough 38-14 defeat down in Tuscaloosa, the Wisconsin Badgers are itching to flip the script — and what better stage than a home opener against the undefeated Maryland Terrapins to kick off Big Ten play? Now, make no mistake, Wisconsin’s not just looking to rebound; they’re out to reclaim their swagger in front of their own crowd. The oddsmakers seem to agree, pegging the Badgers as firm 9 1/2-point favorites, a sharp jump from earlier lines that barely gave them the edge. Maryland’s young guns, highlighted by freshman quarterback Malik Washington and disruptive defensive lineman Sidney Stewart, have been turning heads with their surprise 3-0 start — but Wisconsin’s got the firepower and some key matchups that could tilt the scales. As these two programs collide on Saturday, there are a handful of stats and storylines that’ll be worth watching closely — from pressure on the quarterbacks to explosive plays and rushing yard challenges. It’s shaping up to be a showdown that could set the tone for Wisconsin’s season. LEARN MORE

Wisconsin is favored to win its upcoming home game against Maryland after a recent loss to Alabama.
Key defensive players to watch include Wisconsin’s Mason Reiger and Maryland’s Sidney Stewart.
The Maryland defense has secured seven interceptions this season, posing a challenge for Wisconsin’s quarterbacks.
Wisconsin’s offense will look to involve deep-threat receiver Jayden Ballard and improve its running game.

The Wisconsin Badgers are coming off a tough 38-14 loss in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, to the Alabama Crimson Tide. Luckily, they have a chance to bounce back this Saturday as they start Big Ten play at home against the Maryland Terrapins.

Wisconsin hopes the contest can serve as a necessary “get right” game after its tough loss at Alabama. The team is currently 9 1/2-point favorites against 3-0 Maryland. That spread has risen considerably after it opened under a touchdown.

Maryland has had some standout players this season, including freshman quarterback Malik Washington and defensive lineman Sidney Stewart. Both have exceeded expectations, helping the Terrapins to their 3-0 start.

Before the game kicks off on Saturday morning, here are five stats that will define the Badgers’ matchup against the Terrapins:

1. 13 and 14 quarterback pressures

These numbers represent the number of quarterback pressures from both Wisconsin and Maryland’s best edge rushers. Wisconsin’s Mason Reiger has 14 quarterback pressures on the season, while Terrapins defensive lineman Sidney Stewart has 13. Expect both of them to be key factors in this game, with whoever performs best giving their team a good shot at winning the contest.

2. Seven interceptions

Maryland’s defensive backs have already caught seven interceptions this season. Cornerback La’khi Roland has caught two, leading the Maryland secondary as a lockdown defender. Wisconsin’s Danny O’Neil has had issues with interceptions through his first three appearances. If he starts at quarterback instead of Billy Edwards, Roland could be a huge factor in this game. Even if O’Neil doesn’t start for the Badgers, Maryland’s secondary will still be something that Edwards has to look out for.

3. 41 and 58-yard touchdowns

Both of these represent the two touchdowns that receiver Jayden Ballard has scored in his past two games. Ballard has impressed so far as a deep threat with breakaway speed. Getting him involved in the offense will be critical for Jeff Grimes and Wisconsin. Especially if Billy Edwards is back, expect him to target Ballard a fair amount downfield.

4. Five carries for 25 yards

Wisconsin’s lead back Dilin Jones has been quiet during his last two games. While much of that is due to Wisconsin’s injuries on the offensive line, Jones will still need to find a way to get involved in the offense if the Badgers are to cruise to a victory over the Terrapins. Maryland has allowed an average of 128.5 rushing yards per game this season, so Wisconsin should have a decent chance at getting the ground game going on Saturday, even if the offensive line struggles.

5. Three sacks allowed

Wisconsin’s offensive line allowed three sacks in Tuscaloosa last Saturday, which killed any offensive momentum the team had built. Maryland’s Sidney Stewart already has three sacks this season and could be in for a big day if Wisconsin doesn’t figure out its center and guard issues. Jake Renfro should be healthy for the game. If he isn’t, redshirt freshman Ryan Cory will need to step up and protect the quarterback as best as he can.

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