It’s almost lacrosse season, and the Maryland Terrapins enter 2026 as the number one team in the country. Expectations in College Park could not be higher, and the early schedule reflects exactly where this program stands on the national stage, as the marquee game for almost every opponent.
Under head coach John Tillman, Maryland has built a culture of consistency, toughness, and championship expectations. The opening stretch of the 2026 season is a gauntlet, beginning on the road and rolling through some of the most recognizable names in the sport. It doesn’t get any easier in the B1G. Only Loyola and Delaware are not currently ranked.
Maryland opens the season on January 31st at #10 ranked Richmond. Starting the year away from home is never simple, and the Spiders will see the nation’s top-ranked team as a statement opportunity. Road discipline and early-season sharpness will be tested immediately. Sooner or later the Spiders are going to beat the Terps.
The Terps return to College Park on February 7th for the home opener against Loyola (MD). The Greyhounds bring tradition, familiarity, and a chip on their shoulder whenever they line up against Maryland. SECU Stadium should be lively for the first home whistle of the season.
February 13th brings one of the marquee games of the early calendar when the Terps travel to Syracuse. This matchup carries national weight every year, and recent postseason history only adds fuel. It is an early measuring stick for a Maryland team with championship aspirations. As with Richmond, sooner or later Syracuse will top the Terps.
The challenge continues on February 21st with Princeton visiting College Park. The Tigers are perennial contenders, disciplined, and dangerous. This game has the feel of a late-May matchup being played in February.
Maryland closes the early months schedule on February 28th against Notre Dame. Another proven program, another high-profile test, and another opportunity to harden the Terps before the grind of Big Ten play. Notre Dame has been a tough out for the Terps recently.
In March come Delaware, Virginia and the B1G. Few teams in the country challenge themselves like this and Maryland has never shied away from proving its standing.
For Terp fans, the message is simple. Lacrosse season is here, the Terps are number one, and the road to another championship run starts immediately. Buckle up.
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