QB opens options for Terps’ play calls

Runs by Bortenschlager made Golden Gophers defense more wary

COLLEGE PARK – The most important play call for Maryland in Saturday’s 31-24 win at Minnesota might have come early in the opening drive.

After junior running back Ty Johnson gained 7 yards to the Golden Gophers’ 42 on first down, offensive coordinator Walt Bell called Max Bortenschlager’s number. Faking a handoff, the sophomore quarterback tucked the ball under his arm and took off for 11 yards before sliding.

Not only did Bortenschlager come out of the play unscathed — somet hing f reshman Kasim Hill failed to do the week before in the first quarter against Central Florida, suffering a season- ending t orn ACL — but it also changed the way Minnesota’s defensive ends and the rest of the line attacked Saturday, 4 p.m. TV: Chs. 45, 5 Radio: 105.7 FM, 980 AM Line: Ohio State by 301⁄ the Terps.

“They started out the game pretty aggressive, trying to not cheat but get an edge on our running backs,” Bortenschlager said Tuesday. “That first run I had when I pulled it, [the defensive end] came in super hard. After that, he kind of stayed in his place. I think managing the guys in the box really helped the running backs.”

Said Maryland coach DJ Durkin: “I’m sure that definitely had an effect on him. Really, with the way things are built offensively, is to take what we’re able to get. I think us being able to be multiple and all that certainly helps us. Because I think