Maryland answered Illinois’ opening drive that ended in a field goal with a 97-yard touchdown on the ensuing kickoff.
Running back Javon Leake knifed through the Illinois special teams and evaded a cut down tackle by the kicker with a stiff arm before turning up the sidelines. Ty Johnson added a late block the secured the touchdown to give Maryland an early 7-3 lead.
The #Terps got off to a poor start, but it didn't last thanks to Javon Leake. Live updates:https://t.co/yjZteQXOtzpic.twitter.com/dBFFGqoEup
— Jeff Ermann (@Jeff_Ermann) October 27, 2018
With interim head coach Matt Canada’s offense struggling to produce, a special teams touchdown is the best aid possible. It’s Maryland’s second kickoff return for a touchdown this season.
The return was Leake’s first kickoff return for a touchdown and his longest return of his collegiate career. The score was his third of the season.
