Anonymous coach points to QB Malik Washington as "one of the better players" in Big Ten

Ahmed Ghafir
1 day ago
2 min read

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sKtRI_oZuoA

With nearly three weeks until the college football season kicks off, ESPN took a peak into the top quarterbacks around both the Big Ten and country with sophomore quarterback Malik Washington included.

The big question for Washington is how the 6-foot-5 quarterback can take a step in year two as both head coach Mike Locksley and offensive coordinator Clint Trickett have pointed to the ability to use his quarterback as a runner.

"He's trimmed his body down, got rid of some of the baby fat," Locksley told ESPN. "Super explosive athlete, makes every throw you need to make. An area that a year ago we didn't emphasize because of the style we ran, but he's very capable with his feet as well to make plays, and I think that adds a whole other element to how you defend him. This year, we're going to make people defend him."

Washington is coming off a season where he threw for over 250 yards in five games, though also ended his season tossing seven interceptions over his final six games as he eyes the chance to build on his efficiency with a new group of pass catchers. Yet the former blue-chip quarterback also drew additional positive feedback months after more Big Ten coaches echoed the same.

"He makes some elite throws," a Big Ten coach said. "I felt like he was one of the better players in the conference."

Washington and the Terps are in the opening days of fall camp after Locksley and the 2026 team and staff kicked off the first practice last Wednesday, Aug. 5, exactly one month prior to the start of the regular season as several new pieces look to stick out through preseason.

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