For the past few weeks, college football has been defined by instability, with more in-season head coaching firings than ever before. Amid that chaos, rumors surrounding Maryland head coach Mike Locksley sent the college football world into a frenzy. A viral social media post claimed the Terrapins had parted ways with their veteran coach following a lopsided loss to Indiana, and the speculation spread like wildfire before the truth came out.
Has Maryland Fired Mike Locksley? Fans Concerned by Viral Locksley “Firing” Post
It all began when an X account, @RealRobReinhart, published what appeared to be breaking news: “Maryland is parting ways with football HC Mike Locksley, per source. I’m told yesterday’s blowout homecoming loss to Indiana was the final factor in the decision. Locksley led Maryland to three straight winning seasons and three consecutive bowl wins from 2021–23, but has failed to reach that level since.”
The post wasn’t satire or parody; it simply contained false information. But because of the ongoing wave of real firings across college football, fans believed it instantly. Even seasoned voices in sports media were momentarily caught off guard. FOX Sports commentator Tim Brando was among those who acknowledged being misled by the viral post before it was debunked.
“This — Makes zero sense to me. Locksley loves that school and this team and its roster was about a year away,” he quoted on the post.
This! 👇Makes zero sense to me. Locksley loves that school and this team and its roster was about a year away. https://t.co/6vgjSP1c7B
— Tim Brando (@TimBrando) November 2, 2025
A veteran Sports journalist, Jeff Ermann, quickly stepped in to clarify, replying under the post: “For everyone asking, this is fake BS.”
Despite that correction, the misinformation had already spread across fan communities and message boards, adding Locksley’s name to the growing list of supposed coaching casualties.
No Truth Behind Firing Claims, But Frustration Grows in College Park
There is no other evidence to suggest that Maryland has plans to part ways with Mike Locksley. However, the fact that so many were quick to believe the rumor reflects the growing unease around the program’s direction.
The Terrapins started the season 4-0, appearing to have turned the corner after years of inconsistency. But four straight losses, capped by a 55-10 blowout defeat to Indiana, have reignited doubts about Locksley’s long-term future.
In that loss, Maryland was outclassed in every facet. The Terps briefly showed life when Jamare Glasker intercepted Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza early, setting up a field goal. But from there, Indiana took complete control,rushing for 367 yards compared to Maryland’s 37 and turning three third-quarter turnovers into 21 points.
Mike Locksley’s Record and Maryland’s Playoff Outlook
Now in his seventh season, Mike Locksley holds an overall record of 37-45 and a 17-44 record in Big Ten play. While he led Maryland to three straight bowl wins from 2021 to 2023, recent results have dampened optimism among fans.
According to PFSN’s College Football Playoff Meter (FPM), the Terrapins have seen their postseason hopes evaporate. Maryland currently holds a 4-4 record, with a 0.0% chance to make the playoffs, conference championship, or even secure an at-large bid. They sit 59th in the national power rankings, with an offensive impact rating of 67.6 and a defensive impact rating of 83.4, a sign that while their defense has shown flashes, offensive inconsistency continues to plague the program.
For now, Locksley remains the head coach, and despite the growing tension, there’s no indication Maryland plans to make a change midseason. Still, the episode exposed how fragile his job security has become.
With four regular-season games left, Maryland’s focus now shifts to damage control. A strong finish could help stabilize the program and quiet the noise around Locksley’s future. But if the Terps’ struggles continue, the next “fake” firing report might feel a little too close to reality.