2009 Week 16

JACKSONVILLE, FL - Maryland outscored Virginia Tech 21-3 in the 2nd half to capture the ACC Championship for the second year in a row. Maryland had two turnovers in their own territory late in the 2nd quarter, but on both occasions the defense held the Hokies to a field goal. Instead of a potentially 18-point lead, the Hokies held a 27-17 advantage at the break.

When Jeremy Ricker found Darrius Heyward-Bey in the endzone midway through the third to cut the deficit to 3, the momentum had shifted. Maryland's defense again was able to hold Virginia Tech to a field goal after a turnover, making the score 30-24 Hokies going into the 4th.

Ricker's third interception of the game with four and a half minutes to play appeared to end Maryland's hopes. But the defense again stepped up and forced a punt after 5 plays and the Terps scored on the ensuing drive to take the lead, 31-30. Four incomplete passes later and Maryland found themselves with the ball. Scott broke open a run designed to keep the clock running to give the Terps a 38-30 lead and that was all she wrote. Virginia Tech again went 4 plays and out to end their hopes.

Maryland will play West Virginia in the Orange Bowl. It is the 4th time the Mountaineers and Terps will play in the last 2 seasons, having met in the same bowl last season. Virginia Tech snuck into the BCS, drawing Texas in the Fiesta Bowl. A record 10 ACC teams will participate in bowl games.

- - - Other Conference Championship Games - - -

MAC - (#22)Central Michigan 35, Temple 21

SEC - (#15)Alabama 28, (#13)Georgia 18

Big 12 - (#5)Texas 38, (#25)Missouri 14

CUSA - Southern Mississippi 31, Houston 26