In Week 8 of the 2025 college football season, the Maryland Terrapins head to Pasadena to take on the UCLA Bruins at the iconic Rose Bowl. Scheduled for Saturday, October 18, at 7:00 PM, this game will be broadcast on FS1, offering fans a night game spectacle. Both teams are part of the Big Ten Conference, adding an extra layer of competition to this encounter.
Maryland enters the game with a 4-2 record for the season, having shown a strong performance on the road with a 1-0 record. However, they are coming off a narrow 34-31 loss against Nebraska. The Terrapins will look to leverage their passing game, which has been a crucial component of their success in previous games.
On the other side, UCLA holds a 2-4 record with recent positive momentum, following a dominant 38-13 victory over Michigan State. The Bruins are 1-2 at home, aiming to improve that record in front of their home crowd at the Rose Bowl. With the odds slightly favoring them, UCLA will focus on their rushing attack, which has proven effective in recent games.
UCLA vs Maryland At a Glance
- Game Location: Rose Bowl in Pasadena, CA
- Game Date & Time: Saturday, October 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM
- TV Coverage: Available on FS1
- Maryland Record: 4-2 overall, 1-0 on the road
- UCLA Record: 2-4 overall, 1-2 at home
- Odds Overview: UCLA is favored with a -160 moneyline and a -3.5 point spread
UCLA Bruins Gear Up for Home Challenge Against Maryland Terrapins
Maryland Terrapins Offensive Overview
The Maryland Terrapins have been working on diversifying their offensive strategies this season. Their passing game has shown signs of improvement, providing crucial support in critical moments.
Despite some inconsistencies, their ground game remains a focal point. The Terrapins rely on a balanced offensive approach to keep defenses on their toes.
Defensive Insights
Maryland’s defense has been a mixed bag, exhibiting strengths in pressuring the quarterback. Their pass rush has been effective, ranking high in sacks, which disrupts opposing offenses.
However, their secondary faces challenges, needing to tighten coverage against strong passing attacks like UCLA’s. Improvement in this area could be key to their success.
Key Players to Watch
The Terrapins’ quarterback stands out as a pivotal figure, orchestrating their offensive plays. His decision-making and execution will be crucial against UCLA’s defense.
On the defensive side, a standout pass rusher poses a threat to the Bruins’ offensive line. His ability to generate pressure can potentially alter the dynamics of the game.
Recent Performance
In their recent games, Maryland has experienced fluctuating results, struggling to maintain consistency. Close games have often tested their resolve and strategic adaptability.
As they prepare to face UCLA, addressing past shortcomings will be vital. Their ability to execute under pressure will be a determining factor.
Maryland Terrapins Betting Trends
- ATS – As Underdog: Recent performance shows a tendency to cover the spread.
- O/U – Recent games have often fallen below the expected total, indicating strong defensive performances.
- SU – Their straight-up record reflects a need for improvement in securing victories against formidable opponents.
Maryland Terrapins Seek Redemption on the Road Against UCLA
Offensive Performance
Maryland’s offense ranks 44th in points scored this season, reflecting a consistent capability to put points on the board. Their passing game, ranked 47th, has been a focal point, with Malik Washington throwing for 1506 yards in six games, leading the team in this category.
However, the rushing attack has struggled significantly, ranking 118th in the nation with just 598 yards. This imbalance could pose challenges against teams with solid run defenses like UCLA.
Defensive Standouts
The Terrapins have shown strength in their pass rush, ranking 4th with 22 sacks this season. This formidable front line could be a critical asset against UCLA’s offensive line.
Interceptions have also been a strong suit for Maryland, as they rank 13th nationally with 12 interceptions. This knack for turning over the ball could provide crucial opportunities for their offense.
Recent Games Recap
In their recent game against Nebraska, Maryland narrowly lost 34-31, despite a strong performance with 249 passing yards and zero turnovers. Their defense struggled against the run, conceding 194 rushing yards.
Against Washington, the Terrapins lost 24-20, highlighting issues in their rushing game with only 55 yards gained. Their passing game was slightly more effective, achieving 219 yards.
Team Betting Trends
- SU – As Favorite: 23-6 in last 29 games (79.3%)
- ATS – All Games: 3-0 in last 3 games (100.0%)
- ATS – As Underdog: 3-0 in last 3 games (100.0%)
- O/U – Home Games: 15-7-1 in last 23 games (65.2%)
- O/U – All Games: 14-8-1 in last 23 games (60.9%)
- O/U – After Win: 10-5 in last 15 games (66.7%)
- SU – After Win: 17-11 in last 28 games (60.7%)
- O/U – As Favorite: 13-8 in last 21 games (61.9%)
- SU – Home Games: 15-11 in last 26 games (57.7%)
- O/U – After Loss: 3-1 in last 4 games (75.0%)
UCLA vs Maryland Prediction: UCLA -3.5
The UCLA Bruins come into this game as 3.5-point favorites against the Maryland Terrapins, and their recent form supports backing them to cover the spread. UCLA is on a 3-0 ATS run this season and is coming off a solid 38-13 win over Michigan State. Playing at home in the Rose Bowl, UCLA has demonstrated strength with a 75% win rate as favorites over the past few seasons.
On the other hand, Maryland, with a 1-2 conference record, will face a tough challenge on the road despite their 4-2 overall record. While Maryland’s defense ranks high in sacks, UCLA’s balanced offensive attack that combines a 93rd-ranked passing game with a 54th-ranked rushing effort should find opportunities against Maryland’s 52nd-ranked points against defense.
UCLA’s ability to perform well under high-total conditions (63.3% win rate for totals ≥ 50) aligns with this game’s total set at 51.5. Given the Bruins’ recent winning form and Maryland’s road underdog status, UCLA is positioned well to cover the spread.
The predicted score for this encounter is UCLA 31, Maryland 24, reflecting a UCLA victory that covers the 3.5-point spread.
- UCLA vs Maryland Prediction: UCLA -3.5
- UCLA vs Maryland Score: UCLA 31 – Maryland 24
