Saturday’s Big Ten Conference football game between Maryland and Michigan State has been canceled and ruled a no-contest amid an increase in COVID cases within Maryland’s football program. Maryland made the announcement Thursday. The game will not be rescheduled.
This is Maryland’s second consecutive game canceled due to the coronavirus. Last week, the Terrapins had eight players test positive, canceling their game against No. 3 Ohio State. This week, the team had an additional 15 players test positive. In the same seven-day span, seven staff members have tested positive as well, including head coach Mike Locksley.
“I am gutted for our team and for our fans,” Locksley said in a statement released by the school. “This team is eager to play and compete and continue the growth we’ve seen this season. This virus is testing our players and coaches right now, but I have no doubt that we will emerge as a stronger unit for having gone through this together. As for me personally, I am feeling strong, with only minor symptoms. I will continue to lead this program virtually and our game preparations for Indiana will begin immediately.”
Maryland paused team activities on Nov. 11 amid the first set of positive tests. They have not practiced since.
The Big Ten now has four canceled games this season since their Oct. 23 start. Both Maryland and Wisconsin have had outbreaks, costing each team multiple games. As it stands, Maryland can play a maximum of six games this season, if they are able to return to play next week. The Big Ten policy mandates teams must play a minimum of six games to qualify for the conference championship game.
Maryland currently has a 2-1 record after wins over Minnesota and Penn State. Their next scheduled game is Nov. 28 at No. 9 Indiana. Michigan State (1-3) is scheduled to play No. 19 Northwestern on the same date.
