Story perspectives

Maryland AD to meet Mike Locksley after 54-3 loss

By Drooid · Sep 27, 2026, 2:24 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Locksley Vows Fight

Mike Locksley, Maryland head coach, vowed to keep fighting and coaching after a 54-3 loss to UCLA.
The defeat was Maryland’s worst since 2019 and dropped the Terrapins to a 2-2 record.
Locksley earns $6.4 million this season and faces a $9.2 million buyout if fired by Dec 31 2026.
Athletic director Jim Smith will meet Locksley Monday.
Fans chanted “Fire Locksley” before halftime as Maryland trailed 20-3.

Summary

Chesney Posts Record Win

Bob Chesney's Bruins posted a 54-3 win, the largest Big Ten road margin since 1955.
UCLA scored three direct-snap touchdowns, with Wayne Knight, Anthony Woods and Jaivian Thomas each touching the ball.
Wayne Knight rushed for 100 yards and a touchdown, bringing his season totals to 345 yards and eight scores.
UCLA’s rushing attack rose to fifth nationally, averaging 286.7 yards per game after the dominant performance.

History

Historical Context

Michigan’s tradition of lopsided road victories dates back to a 130-0 win over West Virginia in 1904 and a 54-0 shutout of Navy in 1930, underscoring how blowouts amplify pressure on administrators. Today, Maryland’s Mike Locksley faces a $9.2 million buyout after a 54-3 loss, a situation that puts athletic director Jim Smith under intense scrutiny.

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Locksley Vows Fight

Mike Locksley, Maryland head coach, vowed to keep fighting and coaching after a 54-3 loss to UCLA.
The defeat was Maryland’s worst since 2019 and dropped the Terrapins to a 2-2 record.
Locksley earns $6.4 million this season and faces a $9.2 million buyout if fired by Dec 31 2026.
Athletic director Jim Smith will meet Locksley Monday.
Fans chanted “Fire Locksley” before halftime as Maryland trailed 20-3.

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