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Maryland whistled for hilariously slow false start against Michigan State

Sean Labar

By Sean Labar

Published:

Maryland is attempting to come away with its first conference victory of the year as the Terrapins battle Michigan State at home in a Week 2 Big Ten clash.

The first half has been a pretty even tilt as the two squads were tied 14-14 with a minute remaining until halftime. While both offenses have found some success through the air and on the ground, the game has been sloppy at times with 8 total penalties called so far. Maryland has been responsible for 5 of those — worth 40 yards — but there’s one in particular that is gaining momentum on social media.

This is one of the more hilarious penalties we’ve seen in college football in 2024… and maybe in the history of the sport. With Maryland approaching midfield about to cross into Spartans territory, the Terrapins lined up in a wildcat formation with a running back behind the center and another in the backfield.

But before the ball was snapped, the RB lost his balance and couldn’t regain it, falling to the ground in what appeared to be slow motion as he tried his best to fight it.

It’s clear the announcers had fun with the moment and there’s no doubt this false start will turn into memes and gain more steam as more college football fans see it.

At the halfway point, the Spartans have a narrow 17-14 lead with QB Aidan Chiles putting together an impressive first half with 154 passing yards and 2 touchdowns. The Terrapins dominated time of possession (17:03) and didn’t turn the ball over in the first two quarters but the Maryland defense has only forced Michigan State to punt once so far, while the Spartans defense has been more stout, allowing just 142 yards of offense from the Terps in the first half.

Sean Labar