You know there’s definitely a higher power at work when the same week that concerned scientists are pushing for federal endangered species protections for Maryland’s diamondback terrapin, the coach of the Maryland Terrapins football team is promising major changes to save a floundering season. Yes, yes, we know there’s far more to life than college football. But you must admit it’s sometimes difficult to pinpoint exactly why the diamondback is so beloved in this state that it was named Maryland’s official state reptile. Because it eats worms and clams? Because it’s the only turtle in the world living in brackish waters? Or how about because it’s the mascot in College Park? Tricky, right?

Granted, it’s probably a mistake to play favorites when it comes to Chesapeake Bay flora and fauna. Underwater grasses are not, for example, the cutest of Bay fixtures, but you can’t argue the vital role they play in the ecosystem. For the turtle, endangered species status may mean added cost for watermen to update crab pots so turtles aren’t trapped by them. That sounds pretty reasonable to us. Same with studying the species more closely and understanding exactly why their numbers are in decline. One hopeful sign is that the diamondbacks have bounced back from low numbers before — a century ago the popularity of terrapin soup had them on the edge.

And speaking of hot soup, what a rough time it’s been for the 3-3 University of Maryland football team and Coach Mike Locksley — with no wins so far in Big Ten competition after losing to Northwestern last week. Northwestern now has a single Big Ten victory. The Terps obviously miss quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa (now playing professionally in Canada) but given the team doesn’t have to play powerhouses Ohio State or Michigan this season (thank you, schedule makers), fans expected somewhat better at this point. Our advice to the head coach? Better not sign any long-term leases for your own housing in College Park if you know what we mean.

We remain cautiously optimistic about the species and the players. Both face predators but both can still be saved — with swift and deliberate action. We just need to make some smart, forward-thinking choices about the quality of our water and perhaps the quality of our play-calling against University of Southern California this Saturday at SECU Stadium.