Washington vs Maryland Showdown Tonight: Start Time, Live Stream, Odds & Key Players to Watch

College Park, Md. — Saturday’s clash between the Washington Huskies and Maryland Terrapins is more than a cross-division meeting; it’s an early-season litmus test for two Big Ten contenders battling for national relevance. Kickoff & viewing info The matchup kicks off at 3:30 p.m. ET in a sold-out SECU Stadium and will air on Big Ten Network, with streaming available via the Fox Sports app and participating live-TV services. Why this game matters • Washington (3-1, 0-1 Big Ten) is looking to rebound after dropping its conference opener and can’t afford a second league loss in the rugged West division. • Maryland (4-0, 1-0) rides its best start since 2001; a home win would vault the Terps into the Top 15 conversation and cement their status as dark-horse Big Ten East contenders. Key matchups to watch 1. Air attack vs press-man secondary Washington’s up-tempo offense averages 314 passing yards per game, but Maryland counters with a secondary allowing just 5.8 yards per attempt. If Husky receivers can shake Terp corners in single coverage, explosive plays will follow. 2. Pocket discipline Maryland QB Devin Jones has been sacked only three times all year. Washington EDGE tandem Zion Stewart and Marcus Tai recorded four sacks last week alone. Controlling the edge could dictate third-down success rates. 3. Red-zone efficiency The Huskies score touchdowns on 79 % of red-zone trips; the Terps rank 8th nationally in red-zone defense. Short-yardage play-calling inside the 20 may decide momentum swings. Injury report Washington LT Caleb Mathews (ankle) is a game-time decision; his absence would shuffle the line and expose blind-side protection. Maryland RB Roman Hemby (shoulder) is probable after limited practice reps, giving the Terps their leading rusher back. Betting line & prediction Most sportsbooks list Maryland as a 2.5-point home favorite with the over/under hovering at 57. Washington’s big-play potential keeps the spread tight, but Maryland’s balanced offense and hostile crowd edge the Terps ahead: Maryland 31, Washington 27. How to stream for free Cord-cutters can watch via free trials on Fubo, YouTube TV or Hulu + Live TV; select mobile carriers also offer BTN through companion apps for customers on qualifying plans. Social chatter Terps fans are urging a “blackout” in the student section while Husky faithful plan a sizable purple presence along the east sideline. Expect a lively environment that underscores how quickly this interregional series has turned into must-see television. Bottom line With College Football Playoff implications already percolating, “Washington vs Maryland” is set to dominate Saturday’s afternoon window. Whichever side handles third-quarter adjustments first will likely leave SECU Stadium unbeaten in October and firmly in the Big Ten driver’s seat.