Nov. 2, 1999

COLLEGE PARK, MD. - Maryland head football coach Ron Vanderlinden held his weekly press conference on Tuesday to discuss the Terps' upcoming game at NC State on Saturday at noon.

On Saturday's game at NC State:

"Offensively, NC State does a good job with the ball. Jamie Barnette, their quarterback, is very athletic and throws the ball very well. Defensively, they have many variations and have a good pass defense. This game will be a tremendous test for our team, especially since we are playing on the road."

"To be successful on Saturday, we need to run the ball well and hit the passes we missed last week (against Duke). Defensively, we need a consistent pass rush and got to avoid giving up the explosion play."

"We are all frustrated that we let the game against Duke get away, but we need to focus on the game against NC State. One of the things we have been good at this season is staying focused."

"Our only focus right now is on the game against NC State. A victory would give us a winning season in only our third year, which would be monumental."

On LaMont Jordan:

"LaMont had another sensational day against Duke. His improvement this year parallels the improvement of our team as a whole. Our offensive line has been opening up big holes for him. He has especially run the option very well."

On Delbert Cowsette:

"Delbert has been one of our most consistent defensive players. He has to be one of the best noseguards in the ACC, if not the best."

On Brian Kopka:

"I hope all the place kickers I coach have the same work ethic Brian does. He has made nine of his last 10 field goals. He is very focused an determined."