Michael Locksley shifts approach as Maryland football enters eighth season

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 3, 2026, 11:15 AM

Last updated Sep 3, 2026

Michael Locksley shifts approach as Maryland football enters eighth season
Summary

Maryland head coach Michael Locksley enters his eighth season with a new public focus on working instead of talking. Following two consecutive 4-8 seasons, the coach aims to mute expectations after past public comments regarding Big Ten championship aspirations failed to materialize. Maryland currently faces significant financial challenges, with athletic director Jim Smith citing a revenue and spending deficit of approximately $50 million to $60 million compared to the conference average. The program struggled last season, concluding with an eight-game losing streak that followed a four-game winning streak to start the year. Locksley previously coached at New Mexico, where his tenure included a 2-26 record. The Terps now look to stabilize operations within a competitive conference environment after navigating recent internal locker room issues and shifting college football resource landscapes.

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By the Numbers
  • Michael Locksley adopts a new mantra to work more and talk less heading into the season.
  • Maryland finished with 4-8 records in each of the past two seasons.
  • The athletic department estimates a $50 million to $60 million funding gap behind conference peers.
  • Maryland lost its final eight games of the 2025 season.
  • The team failed to meet goals of reaching a Big Ten championship game.
Latest Updates
  • 11:15 AMYahoo SportsLocksley wants Maryland football to talk less. History shows why. | ANALYSIS
What they're saying
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It is Dec. 9, 2008, inside a packed ballroom in New Mexico’s Student Union Building. Michael Locksley is being introduced as coach of the Lobos, wearing a cherry blazer before a crowd of fans, students and administrators. There, the then-38-year-old turns to athletic director Paul Krebs and delivers a promise. “We may have to add another digit to the scoreboard.” Nearly 18 years later, the ...

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