The Spartans kicked off to start the game for the touchback. Maryland began the game trying to get the running game going, but after a couple short pickups, they went to the air to grab the first down. On the second series, they were forced into another third and short, but they managed to run for a second 1st down. After a deep shot sailed too far, Maryland had a third 3rd down, this one with 8 to go, but they managed to move the chains on a busted play that finished with a shovel pass to avoid the sack.