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Maryland vs Florida Atlantic Picks and Predictions — August 31, 2025
The Maryland Terrapins look to reset after a disappointing 4–8 season when they host the Florida Atlantic Owls in Saturday’s season opener at College Park. Both teams enter with fresh leadership on offense — Pep Hamilton coordinating the Terps, and new head coach Zach Kittley bringing his Air Raid attack to FAU.
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Oddsmakers give Maryland a 10.5-point edge, with the over/under set at 56.
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Maryland Can Win If…
The quarterback situation doesn’t derail the offense. Maryland has a three-man race at QB — UCLA transfer Justyn Martin, redshirt freshman Khristian Martin, and true freshman Malik Washington — but no clear starter has been announced. What the Terrapins do have is a rebuilt staff and some offensive stability with RB Nolan Ray and TE Dorian Fleming.
“We’ve created a foundation that I think will allow us to bounce back better,” coach Mike Locksley said. “Because of the foundation, to get back on track to compete for Big Ten championships.”
If Pep Hamilton can scheme easy completions and the defense led by Ted Monachino limits FAU’s tempo, Maryland should cover comfortably.
Florida Atlantic Can Win If…
Caden Veltkamp picks up right where he left off at Western Kentucky. The reigning C-USA Offensive Player of the Year threw for over 3,100 yards with 25 TDs in 2024, and new head coach Zach Kittley has a proven track record of Air Raid fireworks.
“He’s living up there (at the facility),” Kittley said. “He loves every second of it … He’s played in some big games.”
If FAU’s offensive line gives Veltkamp time and the defense avoids getting gashed on the ground, the Owls have the upset potential to shock a rebuilding Maryland team.
Key NCAAF Betting Trends
| Category | Maryland | FAU |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 Record | 4–8 | 3–9 |
| Last 5 Games | 0–5 | 1–4 |
| Points Per Game | 22.7 | 20.4 |
| Opponent PPG | 29.6 | 32.5 |
| ATS Record (2024) | 5–7 | 4–8 |
The Lean
Pick: Maryland -10.5
Projected Final Score: Maryland 31, FAU 20
Maryland’s foundation — a stronger staff and better defensive depth — should help them get back on track. FAU’s Air Raid will provide a test, but the Owls are still a work in progress under Kittley. Expect the Terps to start fast at home and cover.
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