After an October to forget, Maryland has one month to correct course

Maryland football’s season was firmly on schedule when it entered the month of October. Now it’s looking to put a rough four weeks far behind it.

Holding an unblemished 5-0 record, the Terps started the month prepping for an Ohio State matchup that, with a win, could’ve propelled the program to heights not seen in decades. They came out on the wrong side of the scoreline that afternoon, but a loss to the Buckeyes was no reason for concern — a competitive first half against the team recently ranked No. 1 by the College Football Playoff committee was in many ways encouraging.

But then came a homecoming loss to Illinois, which was previously winless in conference play, and alarm bells began to ring. The off-the-field noise grew louder too.

During the subsequent bye week, assistant coach Kevin Sumlin was arrested in Florida under DUI charges. Also, wide receiver Tyrese Chambers left the team, citing personal reasons. And shortly after, offensive coordinator Josh Gattis was…