WASHINGTON » Like a band on its farewell tour, the 2010 University of Maryland Terrapins gathered one final time yesterday for a game that sent coach Ralph Friedgen out the way he began — with a victory.

If nothing else, Maryland’s 51-20 victory over East Carolina in the Military Bowl provided temporary comfort to Friedgen, who had likened his final days at his alma mater to a "slow death."

Against the overmatched Pirates, Friedgen got a 91-yard touchdown run and 200 total yards from tailback Da’Rel Scott, playing his last Maryland game. Scott was voted the game’s MVP. Maryland (9-4) also got four rushing touchdowns from goal-line specialist D.J. Adams.

East Carolina entered the game ranked last in the Football Bowl Subdivision in total defense, surrendering 479 yards per game. As Maryland well knew, the Pirates are particularly susceptible to the run.

Friedgen learned officially on Dec. 20 that the final season of his contract was being bought out. But he was not the only one exiting after the game.

Many of his assistant coaches will not be returning. It was also the last game for standout linebacker Alex Wujciak and 15 other seniors and — perhaps — receiver-returner Torrey Smith, who may leave for the NFL.

When it was over, Friedgen — wearing khaki pants, a black jacket and a white Terps cap — walked to the stands and huddled with his players as the band played the alma mater.

Maryland took a 6-0 lead on its second possession. Receiver Kevin Dorsey jostled with cornerback Travis Simmons along the sideline before hauling in a 45-yard touchdown pass. The extra point was blocked.

Adams’ 1-yard scoring run pushed Maryland’s lead to 16-3 in the second quarter. The touchdown was set up by Davin Meggett’s 44-yard run to the 22.

Maryland used its multiple blitz packages to pressure quarterback Dominique Davis, who was 35-for-57 for 268 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions.

The Military Bowl (formerly known as the EagleBank Bowl), in its third season, was played at RFK Stadium.