During Maryland’s last game against Georgia Tech, sophomore reserve offensive lineman Phil Costa’s focus drifted between replacing injured All-American right guard Andrew Crummey, and his brother Rick, who sustained a neck injury during the game and had to be airlifted to a local hospital.

“It was real emotional for me because I’m on the sideline and he’s just laying there,” he said. “I didn’t know what’s going on and all of a sudden I see the helicopter come in, so I don’t know what to think. That’s all going on while I have to go in there and play the game. There were a lot of emotions running through my head.”

Throughout the game Costa received updates on his older brother’s condition. First, Maryland coach Ralph Friedgen informed him Rick’s injury was not life-threatening and he was expected to make a full recovery. Later, the police officer who drove Phil and Rick’s parents to the hospital confirmed that news, telling Phil that his brother, a junior linebacker, had sustained a sprained neck, and he had full movement of his extremities.

“I was trying to be as focused as I could out there,” Phil said. “But when I heard he would be all right it was a big relief.”

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This week, Phil Costa makes his first start as a Terrapin, replacing Crummey, who suffered a broken fibula and will miss at least six weeks. Crummey will be helping Costa from the sideline, with Rick helping his younger brother off the field.

“[Rick’s] been telling me a lot of things he likes to do before the game to get mentally prepared, things to eat to give me more energy for the game,” Phil said. “He’s telling me to get an ice bath Friday night before the game. I don’t really do that too much, but I might.”

Maryland’s offensive linemen are confident they won’t lose a step with Costa in the starting lineup. The unit views him, and junior Jack Griffin, as part of a seven-man rotation in which every player has an equal role.

“Phil came in last week and did a very good job. It is always very difficult to come in play for a player who’s as good as Andrew Crummey,” Friedgen said. “But Phil was considered a starter right from the beginning. I know I’ll get everything he has to give, and we’re looking forward to seeing how he does.”

Phil replied” “I feel like I’ll go in there and we won’t miss a beat. I’ve been in all six games so far and I know we’re all one unit. We’re a big blur off the ball, so I think we’re good there.” 

MARYLAND (4-2) VS. VIRGINIA CAVALIERS (6-1)

KICKOFF: Tonight, 8 p.m.

WHERE: Byrd Stadium, College Park

TV/RADIO: ESPN2, 105.7 FM, 1300 AM

TICKETS: Available

dduberstein@baltimoreexaminer.com