Maryland Fires Head Coach Mike Locksley After 2‑5 Start
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Maryland dismissed long‑time head coach Mike Locksley on Wednesday after a 2‑5 start to the 2026 season. The Terrapins fell 37‑30 to Rutgers in their homecoming game at SECU Stadium. Athletic director Jim Smith said the decision was made after thoughtful conversations with Locksley and was in the best interest of both the coach and the program. Locksley, who began coaching Maryland in December 2018, finished with a 39‑54 record over seven-plus seasons. The school will begin a search for a replacement immediately. Locksley will receive a $9.75 million buyout; he earned $6.4 million this season. Maryland is the first Power Four program to fire its head coach this season.
More context
Timeline
- On December 4 2018 Locksley hired as Maryland head coach.
- 2026-06 — Locksley fired after 2-5 start, interim coach appointed
Why it matters
Immediate US impact: College football fans and alumni react to coaching change Possible long-term US impact: Potential shift in recruiting and program direction Most affected groups: Maryland players, coaching staff, alumni Reader priority: Understand reasons and implications of firing
Coverage notes
Center: Coverage from youtube.com, testudotimes.com, espn.com.au frames this as a developing news story: Maryland Fires Head Coach Mike Locksley After 2‑5 Start. Reporting emphasizes verified facts, named sources, and near-term impact for readers. Left: Left-leaning desks covering the same development typically emphasize public impact, institutional accountability, and who is most affected. Right: Right-leaning desks covering the same development typically emphasize practical outcomes, market or security stakes, and institutional response.
Primary report
CBS Sports — Maryland Fires Head Coach Mike Locksley After 2‑5 Start
Sources
JQJO Editorial Desk · Human reviewed · AI assisted. Report a correction.
