Maryland (3‑0) secured a signature 11‑7 win over Syracuse last Saturday in College Park—a performance that reinforced the Terps’ reputation as one of college lacrosse’s elite programs and set the stage for another premier matchup this weekend.
A Win Defined by Adjustment
In a game played under harsh, wintry conditions—with sleet and snow mixing into rain—the Syracuse Orange, known for their high‐scoring offense (averaging 18 goals per game), entered SECU Stadium as 3.5‑goal favorites. Yet, after trailing at halftime for the second consecutive week, Maryland answered by dominating the second half. The Terps’ defense, anchored by a rejuvenated Logan McNaney (who recorded 12 crucial saves and posted a save percentage exceeding 62 percent in the latter half), stifled Syracuse’s dynamic attack led by Joey Spallina. The Terps’ disciplined midfield repeatedly forced turnovers and controlled possession, allowing eight different players to contribute on the scoresheet, including Elijah Stobaugh—who notched his first career goal.
Coach John Tillman summed up the turnaround succinctly: “You’re actually in a much better spot than you were last week. It’s basically whoever wins the second half is going to win.”
Maryland’s ability to adjust mid-game and exploit Syracuse’s lapses in defense proved critical. This win, coming against one of the nation’s top offenses, is a significant statement of intent for the Terps as they build on their rich legacy.
A Century of Excellence and Tactical Mastery
This season marks the 100th for Maryland men’s lacrosse—a milestone that reflects the program’s storied history. With an all-time record of 896‑290‑4 and a tradition of finishing every season at .500 or better, Maryland has produced 525 All-Americans, 29 Final Fours, and four national championships. In recent years, the Terps have not only maintained but also elevated their performance. The Syracuse win is the third top‑five victory in two seasons and adds to a trend of defensive excellence: opponents Richmond, Loyola, and Syracuse have been held to seven goals or less in consecutive games—a feat not seen since 2015.
Another key element of Maryland’s success has been its strong faceoff unit. Following the departure of longtime leader Luke Wierman, senior Shea Keethler and sophomore Sean Creter have taken charge. With a combined win rate nearing 60 percent, this unit has helped Maryland control time of possession—a critical factor in close contests.
Princeton: Today’s Top‑Five Showdown
Building on the momentum from the Syracuse win, the Terps now shift their focus to a marquee matchup against Princeton. Today at Sherrerd Field at Class of 1952 Stadium, No. 2 Maryland (3‑0, 0‑0 in the Big Ten) will face No. 5 Princeton (1‑0, 0‑0 in the Ivy League) in a top‑five clash that carries significant implications. Game is set for noon on ESPN+.
Historically, Maryland leads the all‑time series against Princeton 36‑12‑1 and is riding an eight‑game winning streak against the Tigers. Last season, the Terps posted convincing wins at home (13‑7) and in the NCAA Tournament (16‑8) against Princeton. However, the Tigers come into today’s contest with renewed energy, fresh off an 11‑10 overtime victory at Penn State. Known for their aggressive transition play, Princeton will be eager to challenge Maryland’s momentum.
For the Terps, the focus will be on maintaining their lockdown defense—which has allowed only seven goals in each of their first three games—and leveraging their superior faceoff play to dictate the pace. Offensively, leaders such as Braden Erksa and Eric Spanos will be expected to find ways to break down Princeton’s well-organized unit, while the depth of Maryland’s roster should help sustain offensive pressure throughout the game.
Implications for the Season
Maryland’s impressive start this season is a testament to its ability to overcome adversity, adapt in-game, and execute under pressure. The Syracuse win showcased not only tactical adjustments and defensive grit but also highlighted the program’s evolving identity—blending the wisdom of veteran leadership with the impact of emerging talent and strategic transfers. As the Terps honor a century of lacrosse excellence, today’s game against Princeton represents both a continuation of that legacy and a crucial test of their postseason aspirations.
In today’s contest, every possession will count. The Terps look to extend their winning momentum, further cementing their claim as one of the nation’s top programs, and send a message to the rest of college lacrosse that national contention still runs through College Park.
Three Things to Watch vs. Princeton
The Tigers' attack unit
Princeton has one of the best attack units in the country in Coulter Mackesy, Nate Kabiri, and Colin Burnes. Mackesy is the senior leader of the group while Kabiri and Burnes are both sophomores. Last week, Mackesy had five goals and an assist in the Tigers win. Look for either Will Schaller or Colin Burlace to be on Mackesy to try and shut him down to slow the Tigers' offense up.
Ryan Croddick
Princeton lost their starting goalie from last season to the transfer portal and no one knew how Croddick would fill his shoes. In the win last week, Croddick had 22 saves just allowing ten goals while also adding an assist to his name. If Croddick is able to look as good as he did last week, it could be a long game for the Terps offense.
The face-off battle
The Terps have a decent two-headed face-off unit this season in Shea Keethler and Sean Creter. Keethler is 21/31 on the season while Creter is 14/28. Princeton's face-off man Andrew McMeekin went 6/20 last week in the win. If the Terps are able to dominate the face-off battle and keep the ball out of the Princeton's offense hands, it will massively help them pull off the road win.
By: Henry Lilienfeld & John Gugs
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