The upcoming clash at the Music City Bowl is set to showcase the Auburn Tigers as they face off against the Maryland Terrapins on Saturday, December 30, 2023. Following a triumphant conclusion to the regular season, where the Maryland football team secured a noteworthy victory to solidify a winning record, the Terrapins received exciting news on Sunday. They learned that they would be making their third consecutive postseason appearance under the guidance of Coach Michael Locksley.
What? Auburn vs. Maryland, Music City Bowl 2023
When? Saturday, December 30, 2023, 2:00 PM ET
Where? Nissan Stadium Nashville, Tennessee
TV Channel: ABC
With a program-first opportunity in sight, the Terrapins, boasting a 7-5 record, are eager to secure a bowl victory for the third consecutive year. Their opponent, the Auburn Tigers, enter the matchup with a 6-6 season record. The anticipated face-off is scheduled for 2 p.m. on December 30 at Nissan Stadium in Nashville. It’s worth noting that while the Terrapins previously achieved three consecutive bowl wins under Coach Ralph Friedgen in 2002, 2003, and 2006, the current opportunity marks a unique chance for Coach Locksley’s squad to etch their own chapter of success in the program’s postseason history.
In its inaugural season under the helm of Coach Hugh Freeze, Auburn concluded its campaign in fifth place in the SEC West with a 3-5 record in league play. The Tigers now gear up for their upcoming matchup following a close 27-24 loss to the Alabama Crimson Tide in their most recent game.
During the contest against the Crimson Tide, Payton Thorne led the Tigers’ offensive efforts, amassing 91 yards on 5-of-16 passing, completing 31.2% of his attempts. Thorne contributed one touchdown through the air but faced two interceptions. Additionally, he showcased his mobility with 15 carries, resulting in 57 yards gained. On the ground, Jarquez Hunter played a significant role, tallying 93 rushing yards on 14 carries, averaging an impressive 6.6 yards per carry. Through the air, Ja’Varrius Johnson emerged as a key receiving threat, securing four receptions for 76 yards at an average of 19.0 yards per catch. Johnson’s contributions extended beyond the receiving game, as he recorded one touchdown through the air and added another touchdown on a 12-yard carry.
Auburn Betting Stats
Auburn has achieved success in covering the spread in six out of 12 games this year.
When favored by 2.5 points or more, Auburn has a balanced record of 3-3 against the spread.
Among the 12 games played this season, five of them for Auburn have exceeded the projected total points.
Maryland Terrapins
Securing the fourth spot in the Big Ten with a 4-5 record, the Maryland Terrapins concluded their regular season on a high note with a convincing 42-24 victory over the Rutgers Scarlet Knights.
In their last game, quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa delivered a stellar performance for the Terps, completing 24 of 31 passes for an impressive 361 yards. Tagovailoa showcased his passing prowess with three touchdowns, although he faced one interception. Additionally, he contributed in the rushing game, carrying the ball twice for a total of -3 yards but managing to score one touchdown on the ground.
Roman Hemby made significant strides on the ground, carrying the ball 15 times for an impressive 113 yards. Hemby’s versatility extended to the receiving game, where he caught five passes for 14 yards, securing one touchdown.
In the receiving corps, Tai Felton emerged as a standout performer, hauling in five passes for an impressive 140 yards. An average of 28.0 yards per catch. Felton’s contributions were capped off with a touchdown, further solidifying the Terps’ offensive prowess in their victory over the Scarlet Knights.
Maryland Betting Stats
Maryland has successfully covered the spread in six out of their 12 games this season.
In games where Maryland played as a 2.5-point underdog or more, they secured one ATS victory. A record of 1-2.
Notably, seven out of the 12 games played by Maryland this year have exceeded the projected total points.
Music City Bowl Betting Odds
The Tigers are favorites (-2.5) in an expected close game against the Terrapins. The total is set at 50.5 points.
Starting out in the betting industry, Henry later found his calling in sports writing. Specializing in soccer, golf, and darts, he also offers insights into a wide array of sports across the globe. After earning a BA Honors degree in Business and Management, Henry advanced through the ranks at William Hill in England. His career isn't just limited to sports; he's also made a mark in Property and Finance, fields in which he remains engaged. Henry now resides in Barcelona, where he enjoys playing golf year-round as part of the Real Federacion Espanola de Golf.