Bruce is on the loose

This wasn't supposed to be a banner year for Maryland football. The Terrapin offense lost its single most effective weapon, as Maryland's all-time leading rusher, LaMont Jordan, was selected in the second round of the NFL Draft.

The Terps also lost Jordan's backup Mukala Sikyala, who signed with the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent.

But what started out as a potential down year has turned into Maryland's best season in recent memory.

Heading into this week's game against Duke (0-6, 0-4 in the ACC) in College Park, the Terrapins boast a 6-0 record and a No. 12 ranking in the Associated Press Poll.

While much of the credit for success goes to new coach Ralph Friedgen and a much-improved defense, the Terrapins owe their record, and their chance at a conference title, to tailback Bruce Perry.

To say Perry's performance this season is a surprise might be the understatement of the year.

"I didn't even expect to come out and have a breakthrough season like this," Perry said. "It's all because of my offensive line and the schemes that our offensive coaches have put in, it has allowed me to be successful.

At the end of spring practice, Perry had not even secured the starting spot. The Terrapin website still reads that he, "figures to challenge for the starting job."

"It doesn't matter as long as we're winning games," he said. "You can lose games and have all the stats in the world, and it means nothing. If we're winning, that's what matters."

Perry's durability is particularly impressive given his stature. At 5-foot 9 and 190 pounds, he is by no means small, but he lacks the size of backs such as the 6-1, 210 pound Foster.

However, Perry makes up for his size with his impressive speed. He has run the 100 meter dash in a blistering 10.4 seconds.

"I model myself on Warrick Dunn's style," Perry said. "He's a speed, slasher type guy. That's what I try to be. But I'm able to lower the boom unexpectedly when I have to."

The combination of slashing and speed has led Perry to a conference-leading 145 yards rushing per game this season, as well as seven rushing touchdowns.

It has also turned him into an outside candidate for the Heisman Trophy.

"I try to stay away from that subject," he said. "That Heisman talk is just a big distraction. It would be nice if I got it, but right now I'm just focused on winning."

This week that focus turns on the Blue Devils. It figures to be a big week for Perry. Duke is last in the conference, giving up 214.8 yards rushing per game.

However, Maryland also has to deal with the problems brought on by its success.

At 6-0, the Terrapins are primed for a shot at a major bowl, a conference title, and if they win out, possibly a shot a a BCS bid. With a game in Doak Campbell stadium against Florida State following the Duke game, Maryland will have to work to keep focus on the Blue Devils.

"We see all these games coming up as money games," Perry said. "These are games we have to win. I really think that every game is just as important, whether it be Duke or Miami. We're not overlooking anybody. We're putting in a good week of preparation, and I'll be ready to get the ball on Saturday."

After Duke, Maryland faces No. 21 FSU, the newly dangerous Troy State, No. 13 Clemson and N.C. State.

Perry remains confident despite this difficult finish to the season.

"Of course we can win them all," he said. "Why would I say anything else? [Whether we get a shot at the national championship], that's up to the politicians."