Rutgers Holds Off Maryland in Second-Half Surge, Completes Season Sweep

COLLEGE PARK, Md. – Tariq Francis scored 19 points as Rutgers secured a 69-65 victory over Maryland on Sunday, completing a season sweep of the Terrapins. The Scarlet Knights (12-17, 5-13 Big Ten) once held a commanding 20-point lead in the first half but had to withstand a furious Maryland comeback to preserve the win.

First-Half Dominance Sets the Tone

Rutgers established a significant advantage in the first half, outscoring Maryland 39-20. A key factor in this early lead was Rutgers’ ability to capitalize on Maryland’s turnovers, earning a 14-0 advantage in points off turnovers. Francis led the charge with 13 first-half points, shooting 3-of-6 from the field and a perfect 6-of-6 from the free-throw line.

Maryland Mounts a Second-Half Comeback

Trailing by 19 at halftime, Maryland emerged with renewed energy in the second half. Elijah Saunders and Andre Mills sparked a 13-0 run with timely three-pointers, narrowing the gap to 45-41 six minutes into the half. Maryland briefly took the lead at 48-47, and the game remained tightly contested, tied at 54 with under five minutes remaining.

Rutgers Responds and Closes Out the Game

Rutgers quickly regained control, going on a 6-0 run to establish a 60-54 lead. Despite Maryland closing within two points on multiple occasions in the final minute, the Scarlet Knights held firm, converting crucial free throws to secure the 69-65 victory.

Key Performances

Tariq Francis led Rutgers with 19 points. Darren Buchanan Jr. Contributed 14 points, and Jamichael Davis added 12. For Maryland (11-18, 4-14 Big Ten), Andre Mills recorded a double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds, while Elijah Saunders added 11 points and 14 rebounds. Solomon Washington also chipped in with 15 points and four blocks, and David Coit scored 10.

Rebounding Disparity and Turnovers

Maryland dominated the boards, finishing with a 50-26 rebounding advantage. However, the Terrapins committed 19 turnovers compared to just six for Rutgers, which proved to be a critical difference in the game. Maryland shot just 1-of-14 from three-point range.

Looking Ahead

Maryland will travel to face Wisconsin on Wednesday. Rutgers will face a tough test on the road against No. 13 Michigan State on Thursday.