Nov. 1, 2004

COLLEGE PARK, Md. - The Maryland student body was again in full-force at Byrd Stadium this past Saturday afternoon to cheer Maryland to a thrilling 20-17 victory over fifth-ranked Florida State.

"Testudo's Troops" numbered 11,000 for the fifth consecutive home game this season, which puts them on pace to break last season's student attendance record of 10,200 per game. Saturday's total attendance of 52,203 marked the 10th straight time that Maryland has drawn more than 50,000 fans to a football game at Byrd Stadium, dating back to the 2003 season. Eight of the top 10 single-game attendance figures have occurred during the Ralph Friedgen era at Maryland.

One group of students, calling themselves "The Byrd Eleven," provided some additional support to the football team by placing a 40x20-yard banner in Byrd Stadium's upper deck last Thursday evening. The banner featured the Maryland "M" and the slogan, "We Will Protect This House" -- a nod to Maryland Football's official apparel provider, Under Armour, and the Terps' 22-3 home record under Head Coach Ralph Friedgen.

"The support provided by our student body means so much to our team," said Coach Friedgen. "They've made Byrd Stadium one of the toughest places to play in the conference, especially when opposing offenses try to operate near the student section."

Maryland takes to the road for its next two games, at Virginia (Sat., Nov. 6th at 3:30 on ABC) and at Virginia Tech (Thurs., Nov. 18th at 7:45 on ESPN), before closing out the 2004 regular season at home on Saturday, November 27th against Wake Forest. Fans can take advantage of a special "Stuff the Byrd" Thanksgiving 4-Pak, which includes 4 tickets, 4 hot dogs and 4 medium sodas for just $40.00. Order online or by calling the Terrapin Ticket Office at 800-IM-A-TERP.