Maryland Upsets Michigan in Thrilling Wrestling Match

Ann Arbor, MI – It took a complete team effort for the unranked Maryland Terrapins to upset the No. 10 Michigan Wolverines in a highly anticipated Big Ten wrestling dual on Friday night. The match ended with a final score of 19-18, with Maryland clinching the win through criteria rules, thanks largely to Braxton Brown, a junior competing in the 133-pound weight class.

The action kicked off with Maryland starting on the back foot, trailing 4-0 after a decisive loss at 125 pounds. However, Brown took the mat early and quickly made his mark. He secured a takedown in both the first and second periods before pinning Michigan’s Nolan Wertanen to gain six critical points for his team. This pin was the turning point, as it later proved vital when the dual concluded with both teams locked in an 18-18 tie.

Brown’s pin was the only one of the night, making him the standout performer. This significant victory marked the biggest win yet for head coach Alex Clemsen. Besides Brown, Maryland’s success relied on contributions from other wrestlers as well. The dynamic brothers, Kal Miller and Ethen Miller, competing at 149 and 157 pounds, both secured decisions against their ranked opponents, adding to Maryland’s lead and taking the score to 12-7 at intermission.

After a setback at 165 pounds, the Terps rallied back with tight wins from Branson John and No. 13 Jaxon Smith at 174 and 184 pounds, respectively, establishing an 18-10 lead.

The final matches were tense, especially with Michigan’s No. 3 Jacob Cardenas facing Maryland’s Chase Mielnik. Cardenas needed a pin for Michigan to keep their hopes alive but settled for a tech fall, keeping Maryland ahead 18-15 heading into the heavyweight match.

In the heavyweight bout, Maryland’s NCAA qualifier No. 13 Seth Nevills faced No. 10 Josh Heindselman. Even though Heindselman prevailed with a 4-2 decision, the overall scores favored Maryland due to their earlier points, securing them the victory based on criteria.

This victory highlighted Maryland’s potential as a top-25 team and showcased the grit and determination of the Terps, especially in a challenging environment like Ann Arbor. Their complete team performance, capped off by Brown’s crucial pin, is a testament to their capability and ambition in the upcoming season.