2008 Minnesota Golden Gophers Game Preview
JCOSU86, jwinslow, and 3yardsandacloud
Preface
This week marks the beginning of Big Ten play for Ohio State, as they will host 4-0 Minnesota in the 'Shoe on Saturday. Since joining the league in 1913, Ohio State is 68-23-4 in conference openers; 6-1 under Jim Tressel, with the lone loss being the OT decision in Evanston in 2004. Since 1968, tOSU is 32-8 in Big Ten openers, including 22-4 when the first conference game is in Columbus.
Minnesota is in their last season of playing their home games in the venerable Metrodome, which holds the distinction of being the largest plastic bag to ever host the Super Bowl, two World Series, and a pair of Final Fours. They are currently building a new, on-campus facility to be called TCF Bank Stadium, scheduled to be completed for the 2009 football season. But the Buckeyes will host Minnesota again next year, so their first visit to the new stadium will be in 2010.
The Buckeyes fared well in the Metrodome, winning all 11 contests since the stadium opened in the early 1980s, including an epic comeback from a 31-0 deficit at Minnesota in 1989, which was a 1-A record shared with Maryland's 1984 comeback over Miami, until it was exceeded in 2006 by Sparty turning a 38-3 third quarter deficit into a 41-38 victory that ruined Northwestern's homecoming.
Speaking of 31-point comebacks, that was the size of the lead that the Gophers surrendered to Texas Tech in the 2006 Insight Bowl, when they fell 44-41 in overtime. That broke the bowl game comeback mark of 30, when Byron Leftwich led Marshall back against East Carolina in the 2001 GMAC Bowl. Blowing that lead in the Insight Bowl was apparently also the deciding factor in Glen Mason losing the head coaching job, who was fired depite having the best winning percentage of any Minnesota coach since 1950.
Second year coach Tim Brewster, previously the tight end coach for the Denver Broncos and San Diego Chargers, has turned things after a 1-11 opening campaign. They have gone 4-0 in non-conference play, avenging 2007 losses to Bowling Green and Florida Atlantic. How much they improve on last season's 0-8 conference mark will determine if they make a bowl game.
The Golden Gophers' last two 10 win seasons occurred in '03 and '05. That would be 2003 and unfortunately for them, 1905. They had a brilliant stretch from '00 through '05; they actually compiled a record of 65-4-5 from 1900 through 1905. In both 1903 and 1904, they gave up less points over the course of the season than the number of games they won. Those years included a 28-game win streak and a 35-game unbeaten streak. Impressive stuff, but obviously ancient history.
In order to balance the historical look at the Gophers, it's only fair to point out their rich football history:
They were the very first team ever voted #1 in the AP football poll, back in November of 1934. In the first full year for the poll, 1936, they went on to claim their third straight national title. The most recent national championship in 1960 was their sixth.
Minnesota is actually tied with tOSU as the Big Ten teams with the most AP national titles in football, with 4. Michigan has 2, Michigan State has 1, and Penn State won two in the 1980s before joining the conference.
Minnesota has a winning record against the SEC, the Big-12, and the Pac-10.
They won their only meetings against Texas and Alabama, and have a 29-20 mark against Nebraska. OK, since they've lost the last 14 in the series, they've dropped the Huskers from the schedule.
Their list of coaches included Fritz Crisler (1930-31), who left for Princeton and then brought along their winged helmet when he arrived in Ann Arbor in 1938. Crisler was succeeded by in Minnesota by Bernie Bierman, who had a .716 winning percentage from 1932-1950 (with a break during World War II), winning 5 national championships in his first decade leading the Golden Gophers. He is also known for teaching the game of football to Bud Wilkinson, who coached Oklahoma to its record 47-game winning streak in the 1950s.
Other Minnesota head coaches include Wes Fesler, who succeeded Bierman after losing tOSU's Snow Bowl in 1950; and Lou Holtz, who went 10-12 in 1984-85 despite some scintillating pep talks.
Glen Mason, in 10 years, guided the team to 7 of their 12 all-time bowl appearances (they never went to a bowl during their glory days under Bierman).
Counting all games ever played against current Big Ten opponents, Ohio State's winning percentage against Minnesota (.851) is higher than that against any other team in the conference. It's .823 against Indiana and .801 against Northwestern.
Date and TimeThe Buckeyes fared well in the Metrodome, winning all 11 contests since the stadium opened in the early 1980s, including an epic comeback from a 31-0 deficit at Minnesota in 1989, which was a 1-A record shared with Maryland's 1984 comeback over Miami, until it was exceeded in 2006 by Sparty turning a 38-3 third quarter deficit into a 41-38 victory that ruined Northwestern's homecoming.
Speaking of 31-point comebacks, that was the size of the lead that the Gophers surrendered to Texas Tech in the 2006 Insight Bowl, when they fell 44-41 in overtime. That broke the bowl game comeback mark of 30, when Byron Leftwich led Marshall back against East Carolina in the 2001 GMAC Bowl. Blowing that lead in the Insight Bowl was apparently also the deciding factor in Glen Mason losing the head coaching job, who was fired depite having the best winning percentage of any Minnesota coach since 1950.
Second year coach Tim Brewster, previously the tight end coach for the Denver Broncos and San Diego Chargers, has turned things after a 1-11 opening campaign. They have gone 4-0 in non-conference play, avenging 2007 losses to Bowling Green and Florida Atlantic. How much they improve on last season's 0-8 conference mark will determine if they make a bowl game.
The Golden Gophers' last two 10 win seasons occurred in '03 and '05. That would be 2003 and unfortunately for them, 1905. They had a brilliant stretch from '00 through '05; they actually compiled a record of 65-4-5 from 1900 through 1905. In both 1903 and 1904, they gave up less points over the course of the season than the number of games they won. Those years included a 28-game win streak and a 35-game unbeaten streak. Impressive stuff, but obviously ancient history.
In order to balance the historical look at the Gophers, it's only fair to point out their rich football history:
They were the very first team ever voted #1 in the AP football poll, back in November of 1934. In the first full year for the poll, 1936, they went on to claim their third straight national title. The most recent national championship in 1960 was their sixth.
Minnesota is actually tied with tOSU as the Big Ten teams with the most AP national titles in football, with 4. Michigan has 2, Michigan State has 1, and Penn State won two in the 1980s before joining the conference.
Minnesota has a winning record against the SEC, the Big-12, and the Pac-10.
They won their only meetings against Texas and Alabama, and have a 29-20 mark against Nebraska. OK, since they've lost the last 14 in the series, they've dropped the Huskers from the schedule.
Their list of coaches included Fritz Crisler (1930-31), who left for Princeton and then brought along their winged helmet when he arrived in Ann Arbor in 1938. Crisler was succeeded by in Minnesota by Bernie Bierman, who had a .716 winning percentage from 1932-1950 (with a break during World War II), winning 5 national championships in his first decade leading the Golden Gophers. He is also known for teaching the game of football to Bud Wilkinson, who coached Oklahoma to its record 47-game winning streak in the 1950s.
Other Minnesota head coaches include Wes Fesler, who succeeded Bierman after losing tOSU's Snow Bowl in 1950; and Lou Holtz, who went 10-12 in 1984-85 despite some scintillating pep talks.
Glen Mason, in 10 years, guided the team to 7 of their 12 all-time bowl appearances (they never went to a bowl during their glory days under Bierman).
Counting all games ever played against current Big Ten opponents, Ohio State's winning percentage against Minnesota (.851) is higher than that against any other team in the conference. It's .823 against Indiana and .801 against Northwestern.
Date: Saturday, September 23rd, 2008
Time: Noon EDT Kick-off
Location: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 102,329 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events: Former Buckeye player and assistant coach Glen Mason, who coached Minnesota from '97 through '06, will be the honorary captain for tOSU, as well as the TV analyst for the Big Ten Network's coverage
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: BTN: Thom Brennaman (Play-by-play), Charles Davis and Glen Mason (Analysis), and Charissa Thompson (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
2008 Minnesota Golden Gophers Offensive PreviewLocation: Ohio Stadium - "The Horseshoe" (Columbus, OH)
Constructed: 1922 (Renovated in 2001)
Seating Capacity: 102,329 (Originally 66,210)
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Events: Former Buckeye player and assistant coach Glen Mason, who coached Minnesota from '97 through '06, will be the honorary captain for tOSU, as well as the TV analyst for the Big Ten Network's coverage
Broadcast Information:
TV Broacast: BTN: Thom Brennaman (Play-by-play), Charles Davis and Glen Mason (Analysis), and Charissa Thompson (Sideline)
Radio Broadcast: Ohio State Radio Network (WBNS 1460TheFan in Columbus): Paul Keels (Play-by-play), Jim Lachey (Analysis), and Marty Bannister (Sideline)
Returning starters: 6
Next up for the Buckeyes is the Big Ten opener against the Golden Gophers, and Minnesota has a solid tradition on the offensive side of the football, most of which centers around their running game. Bruce Smith won Minnesota's only Heisman Trophy in 1941, and perhaps the toughest back in the history of the sport, NFL HOFer Bronko Nagurski, was also a Gopher. Recent stars Marion Barber III and Laurence Maroney, both current standouts in the NFL, are indicative that the tradition of the Minnesota ground game continues. Add in the rich tradition at the tight end position (recent grads and current NFL players Ben Utecht and Matt Spaeth, and recent NFL HOF inductee Charlie Sanders are good examples), and the Gophers have had their share of excellent offensive players.
Last season, Minnesota moved the ball effectively for most of the year. Minnesota finished the year a respectable 48th nationally in total yards per game, at 407.5, despite having a defense that couldn't stop anybody. Surprisingly, unlike some recent seasons, the Gophers managed a well-balanced attack in 2007, ranking 48th at 161.8 yards per game running the ball, and 43rd passing the ball at 245.8 yards per contest. The Gophers had a little more difficulty putting points on the scoreboard, finishing 67th at 26.3 points per game. They were fairly effective at converting 3rd downs (42.6%, 36th). All this ended up in a very disappointing first season under the new regime, with the Gophers scoring over 30 six times, but 20 or fewer 5 times (including being held to 7 at the Humphrey-Dome against the Buckeyes). Tim Brewster's crew is facing its second season, but the offense wasn't the main cause of the 1-11 record last year.
This year, with the team off to a 4-0 start, the offense has performed well. Minnesota has piled up 403.8 yards per game (45th), and they are again well-balanced, ranking in the top half in both rushing the ball (162.0 YPG, 58th) and passing the ball (241.8 YPG, 42nd). They haven't been quite as effective on 3rd downs thus far (38.8%, 68th). They've dented the scoreboard every game, scoring at least 30 each time out en route to a 36.25 points per game average (24th). They are 4th in the nation in turnover margin, having only given away the ball twice in four games. So the team has at least been fun to watch if you like offense. They'll have to be at their best Saturday, and that still may not be enough.
Quarterbacks
QB #8 Adam Weber (6-3, 220, SO, Mounds View HS, Shoreview, MN)
As a redshirt freshman last season, Gopher quarterback Adam Weber re-wrote virtually all of Minnesota?s passing and total offense records. Weber set single-season and freshman records for passing yards (2,985), completions (258), attempts (449), touchdown passes (24) and total offensive yardage (3,512). He has been more impressive this season, upping his completion percentage from 57.5% to 71.8%, and cutting down his interceptions. Weber is No. 2 in the Big Ten in passing yards/game (241.8), and also ranks No. 3 in the Big Ten and No. 30 in the nation in total offense per game (266.5).
Weber is a strong player with deceptive speed that emerged as a dual threat last season. He is 16th in the nation is passing efficiency, and has thrown 7 TDs with only 1 interception, and has been sacked 6 times. His best game was the win over Bowling Green in week 2, when he completed 84% of his throws for 233 yards and 3 TDs and also ran for a score. He threw for 235 yards with 1 TD and 1 INT on 19 of 24 throws last week against Florida Atlantic. He has apparently learned from some rookie mistakes he made last year, when he threw 19 interceptions. He is a gunner who can throw the ball around and also create some big plays on the ground. He appears similar in size and style to Jake Locker of Washington. He isn't quite the runner that Locker is, but he's a more efficient passer.
The backup is veteran Tony Mortensen (#17), a player that has been around the program a while and has some game experience, including one start. He threw just 4 passes last year for 34 yards, so it's definitely Weber's show. The other backup is Mike Maciejowski (#19), a senior from Upper Arlington, OH, whose father Ron played QB for Woody behind Rex Kern. Highly regarded QB recruit MarQueis Gray from Indianapolis Ben Davis HS was declared ineligible last month and is not with the team. Clint Brewster, the coach's son who was a highly regarded QB recruit last year, transferred out during the summer.
QB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus Ohio State QBs
Weber (P/R): 79/110 (71.8%), 967 yards, 7 TDs, 1 INT, 164.8 rating; 37/99, 2 TDs
Pryor (P/R): 21/33 (63.6%), 226 yards, 4 TDs, 1 INT, 155.1 rating; 30/195, 1 TD
Boeckman (P/R): 44/67 (65.7%), 381 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs, 117.3 rating; 20/9, 0 TDs
Weber appears to be one of the better QBs in the league this year. His improved efficiency during the non-conference play makes him a real threat, and he can create plenty of headaches for defenses with his feet as well as his arm. Pryor showed what all the excitement was about last week, and Boeckman will now use his experience to fill the backup role and play in certain situations. Pryor had a great game last week, with a high rating, but still must prove that he can play consistently and avoid mistakes. Some would say that the interception at the end of the half last week shouldn't count against him, since on that play he did his job by putting it up for grabs in the end zone, but he partially earned that interception by taking a bad sack on the previous play. Both starting QBs will be fun to watch, and although Weber has more experience and bigger numbers this year, Pryor's athletic ability makes the comparison a wash at this point in their careers.
Edge: Even
Running Backs
TB #23 DeLeon Eskridge (5-11, 190, FR, Junipero Serra HS, San Francisco)
TB #29 Shady Salamon (5-10, 185, FR, Cretin-Derham Hall HS, South St. Paul, MN)
TB #20 Jay Thomas (6-0, 195, JR, Tartan HS, Oakdale, MN)
True freshman DeLeon Eskridge has taken over for the injured Duane Bennett, and has done well, gaining 204 yads on 47 carries, while scoring 5 TDs. He runs the ball effectively and is also dangerous catching the ball out of the backfield.
Minnesota began the season with Duane Bennett (#22), a youngster with plenty of game-breaking ability, as the starter, but he was was hurt during their second game. He had gained 92 yards and scored twice in the opener, and followed that with 48 yards rushing and 100 yards and a TD receiving in the Bowling Green game before being injured. His numbers are shown below for comparison purposes.
Eskridge has good vision and quickness, but doesn't figure to break many long runs. He did catch 6 passes for 61 yards last week, so needs to be watched on passing plays. Jay Thomas is another capable backup who has 5 TDs and 463 career yards on 81 carries, a solid 5.7 YPC.
RB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus Ohio State RBs
Eskridge: 47/204 yards, 5 TDs, 4.3 YPC; 6 rec/61 yards, 0 TDs, 10.2 YPR
Bennett (out-injury): 32/140 yards, 2 TD, 4.4 YPC; 12 rec/125 yards, 1 TD, 10.4 YPR
Salamon: 22/122 yards, 2 TDs, 5.5 YPC; 1 rec/13 yards, 0 TDs, 13.0 YPR
C Wells: 13/111 yards, 1 TD, 8.5 YPC; 3 rec/10 yards, 0 TDs, 3.3 YPR
B. Herron 48/212 yards, 1 TD, 4.4 YPC, 4 rec/24 yards, 0 TDs, 6.0 YPR
M Wells: 17/87 yards, 0 TDs, 5.1 YPC; 3 rec/21 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
B. Saine: 16/54 yards, 1 TD, 3.4 YPC; 2 rec/17 yards, 0 TDs, 8.5 YPR
B. Smith: 0/0 yards, 0 TD; 3 rec/26 yards, 0 TDs, 8.7 YPR
Eskridge and Herron have both been effective stepping in after an injury, with similar numbers in both carries and yards. Beanie Wells has had great success over his career, but his effectiveness is uncertain after missing the last three games. Both squads also appear to have good depth and multiple options off the bench. Both teams will try to run the ball effectively early, so this position battle should be evident by halftime, and the score on the board might also play a part. For now, the return of Beanie gives the Buckeyes the advantage.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #7 Eric Decker (6-2, 215, JR, Rocori HS, Cold Spring, MN)
WR #16 Ben Kuznia (6-0, 186, JR, Bold HS, Olivia, MN)
WR #81 Ralph Spry (5-11, 175, SO, Auburn HS, Auburn, AL)
Junior wide receiver Eric Decker set a new Minnesota single-season record for receptions with 67 last year. The Bruce Smith Award winner as Minnesota's top offensive player in 2007 is on pace to smash that record. If Decker keeps up his current pace, he would tally 96 receptions by the end of the regular season. Decker is currently tied for No. 3 in the nation and is No. 1 in the Big Ten in receptions (8.0 per game). He is 4th in the nation and No. 1 in the Big Ten in receiving yards (113.5 per game). He's doing all this after missing spring football to play baseball. He was the Gophers' starter in left field and batted .329 with 11 doubles, four triples and three home runs last season. Despite making it known that he would not sign a baseball contract, Decker was still selected by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 39th round of the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft.
Decker emerged as the go-to man for the Gophers in 2007. He has good size and can be effective both down the field and in the red zone. He's been good in all the games so far, catching 10 for 89 yards and 1 TD against NIU, 6 for 86 yards and 1 score against Bowling Green, 9 for 157 and a TD against Montana State, and 7 for 122 yards and a score against Florida Atlantic last week. He is also a threat on the end-around, which Minnesota has been running fairly often this season.
Kuznia is the #2 receiver, and has just 10 catches for 97 yards and no TDs so far. He's a former walk-on who saw limited action in his first two years on the team, partially due to injury last season.
Spry is a youngster with good speed that is just establishing himself at the position. He had 23 catches for 226 yards and 3 TDs last year, and has 5 grabs for 38 yards so far this season.
Quality depth is a concern, at least in terms of production so far. Freshman Brandon Green (#2) caught his first pass for 7 yards last week, and is the only WR other than the top 3 to have a reception.
WR Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus Ohio State WRs
Decker: 32 catches, 454 yards, 4 TDs, 14.2 YPR; 7 carries, 71 yards, 1 TD, 10.1 YPC
Kuznia: 10 catches, 97 yards, 0 TDs, 9.7 YPR
Spry: 5 catches, 38 yards, 0 TD, 7.6 YPR
Robiskie: 12 catches, 113 yards, 2 TDs, 9.4 YPR
Hartline: 9 catches, 147 yards, 2 TD, 16.3 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 8 catches, 65 yards, 0 TD, 8.1 YPR
Small: 14 catches, 92 yards, 0 TDs, 6.6 YPR
Both of these groups have good players and are very solid at the top. Decker has a good chance at all-conference honors this year, and Robiskie is an established commodity. Opinions vary as to whether his drop on the deep crossing route last week was caused by an injured shoulder or by his surprise at how quickly Pryor's deep ball arrived. Hartline has the edge on Kuznia at the 2 spot in terms of production and experience. Spry is emerging as a decent #3, while the Buckeyes use fewer 3-receiver sets. Decker is a stud, but if the Buckeyes can neutralize him, Minnesota's other receivers will need to prove themselves.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #80 Jack Simmons (6-4, 240, SR, Carmel HS, Libertyville, IL)
TE #48 Nick Tow-Arnett (6-2, 249, JR, Redwood Valley HS, Redwood Falls, MN)
Simmons was the primary starter last season, and in 2008 has mostly been a blocker (and a good one), though he does have 7 catches after recording 20 last season. Backup TE Nick Tow-Arnett (#48) appears to be the next in a long line of pass-catching TEs and Minnesota, as he has caught 5 passes for 74 yards thus far, though he doesn't have a catch the last two weeks. Both of these players have good size and are solid in their blocking assignments.
TE Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus Ohio State TEs
Simmons: 7 catches, 98 yards, 1 TD, 14.0 YPR
Tow-Arnett: 5 catches, 74 yards, 1 TD, 14.8 YPR
Nicol: 3 catches, 24 yards, 1 TD, 8.0 YPR
Ballard: 2 catches, 34 yards, 0 TDs, 17.0 YPR
The Gophers have two good ones, and both have the ability to get deep (Simmons has a 53-yard TD this year, and Tow-Arnett had a 56-yard catch last year). Nicol and Ballard are solid, but the Gophers use their TEs more and get the edge here.
Edge: Minnesota
Offensive Line
LT #76 Dominic Alford (6-3, 315, SO, Shaker Heights HS, Cleveland, OH)
LG #53 D.J. Burris (6-2, 293, SO, Kenton HS, Kenton, OH)
C #52 Jeff Tow-Arnett (6-2, 285, JR, Redwood Valley HS, Redwood Falls, MN)
RG #66 Ned Tavale (6-2, 329, JR, Cretin-Derham Hall HS, South St. Paul, MN)
RT #60 Ryan Wynn (6-5, 278, FR, Maple Grove HS, Plymouth, MN)
This is a young group with a mixture of experience and newcomers. They do less pulling as a group than they did under Glen Mason's schemes (remember center Greg Eslinger?), but do a better job in pass protection. Alford and Tavale are the best of this group; Tavale is a third-year starter that started all 13 games as a freshman.
Dom Alford is recovering from a sprained ankle, but is expected to start. If he isn't able to go, Jason Meinke (#73) will man the left tackle spot that's key in protecting Weber.
At center, Trey Davis has filled in when Tow-Arnett was dinged up, and may have been on his way to earning the starting job when he broke his snapping hand. If Davis plays, he may be using his other hand to snap, as Cordle did last year for tOSU.
Ryan Ruckdashel (#74) is a former starter who now backs up the guard spots. Other line depth is provided by several promising young players, including Ryan Orton (#78) and Chris Bunders (#68).
OL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus Ohio State OL
The Gophers are a solid group, but have been somewhat dinged up at the LT and center positions. Similar to tOSU, there is also some uncertainty about the RT position. But the line has protected Weber well thus far (6 sacks in 4 games, with only 1 interception) and has opened holes for an effective ground attack, as usual for the Gophers. Both lines are physical, and both like to establish the run, but given the slightly higher caliber of competition, the Buckeyes get a slight nod, though the Gopher line always seems to play well.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
The Gophers are a quality offense, who have moved the ball effectively and scored at least 30 points in each of their 4 games thus far. But they've been playing lesser competition so it's hard to get a read on how proficient they'll be in league play. It will be imperative for the Gophers to get off to a good start; they will need to run the ball effectively early and complete a high percentage of passes to keep the clock moving and their defense off the field. There are a lot of young players on the Gophers' roster that indicate the future looks bright - however there have been some growing pains, and will continue to be this season as they make their way through the conference slate. The experienced Buckeye defense will need to rattle Weber and get him off rhythm, as well as shutting down Eskridge and the running game. The Gophers are solid, but if they don't get some big plays from Decker it doesn't appear they will be good enough to move the ball up and down the field deliberately and consistently. Avoiding turnovers, especially interceptions, will be a must, or it will be a long day.
Overall Offensive Rating: B+
Last season, Minnesota moved the ball effectively for most of the year. Minnesota finished the year a respectable 48th nationally in total yards per game, at 407.5, despite having a defense that couldn't stop anybody. Surprisingly, unlike some recent seasons, the Gophers managed a well-balanced attack in 2007, ranking 48th at 161.8 yards per game running the ball, and 43rd passing the ball at 245.8 yards per contest. The Gophers had a little more difficulty putting points on the scoreboard, finishing 67th at 26.3 points per game. They were fairly effective at converting 3rd downs (42.6%, 36th). All this ended up in a very disappointing first season under the new regime, with the Gophers scoring over 30 six times, but 20 or fewer 5 times (including being held to 7 at the Humphrey-Dome against the Buckeyes). Tim Brewster's crew is facing its second season, but the offense wasn't the main cause of the 1-11 record last year.
This year, with the team off to a 4-0 start, the offense has performed well. Minnesota has piled up 403.8 yards per game (45th), and they are again well-balanced, ranking in the top half in both rushing the ball (162.0 YPG, 58th) and passing the ball (241.8 YPG, 42nd). They haven't been quite as effective on 3rd downs thus far (38.8%, 68th). They've dented the scoreboard every game, scoring at least 30 each time out en route to a 36.25 points per game average (24th). They are 4th in the nation in turnover margin, having only given away the ball twice in four games. So the team has at least been fun to watch if you like offense. They'll have to be at their best Saturday, and that still may not be enough.
Quarterbacks
QB #8 Adam Weber (6-3, 220, SO, Mounds View HS, Shoreview, MN)
As a redshirt freshman last season, Gopher quarterback Adam Weber re-wrote virtually all of Minnesota?s passing and total offense records. Weber set single-season and freshman records for passing yards (2,985), completions (258), attempts (449), touchdown passes (24) and total offensive yardage (3,512). He has been more impressive this season, upping his completion percentage from 57.5% to 71.8%, and cutting down his interceptions. Weber is No. 2 in the Big Ten in passing yards/game (241.8), and also ranks No. 3 in the Big Ten and No. 30 in the nation in total offense per game (266.5).
Weber is a strong player with deceptive speed that emerged as a dual threat last season. He is 16th in the nation is passing efficiency, and has thrown 7 TDs with only 1 interception, and has been sacked 6 times. His best game was the win over Bowling Green in week 2, when he completed 84% of his throws for 233 yards and 3 TDs and also ran for a score. He threw for 235 yards with 1 TD and 1 INT on 19 of 24 throws last week against Florida Atlantic. He has apparently learned from some rookie mistakes he made last year, when he threw 19 interceptions. He is a gunner who can throw the ball around and also create some big plays on the ground. He appears similar in size and style to Jake Locker of Washington. He isn't quite the runner that Locker is, but he's a more efficient passer.
The backup is veteran Tony Mortensen (#17), a player that has been around the program a while and has some game experience, including one start. He threw just 4 passes last year for 34 yards, so it's definitely Weber's show. The other backup is Mike Maciejowski (#19), a senior from Upper Arlington, OH, whose father Ron played QB for Woody behind Rex Kern. Highly regarded QB recruit MarQueis Gray from Indianapolis Ben Davis HS was declared ineligible last month and is not with the team. Clint Brewster, the coach's son who was a highly regarded QB recruit last year, transferred out during the summer.
QB Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus Ohio State QBs
Weber (P/R): 79/110 (71.8%), 967 yards, 7 TDs, 1 INT, 164.8 rating; 37/99, 2 TDs
Pryor (P/R): 21/33 (63.6%), 226 yards, 4 TDs, 1 INT, 155.1 rating; 30/195, 1 TD
Boeckman (P/R): 44/67 (65.7%), 381 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs, 117.3 rating; 20/9, 0 TDs
Weber appears to be one of the better QBs in the league this year. His improved efficiency during the non-conference play makes him a real threat, and he can create plenty of headaches for defenses with his feet as well as his arm. Pryor showed what all the excitement was about last week, and Boeckman will now use his experience to fill the backup role and play in certain situations. Pryor had a great game last week, with a high rating, but still must prove that he can play consistently and avoid mistakes. Some would say that the interception at the end of the half last week shouldn't count against him, since on that play he did his job by putting it up for grabs in the end zone, but he partially earned that interception by taking a bad sack on the previous play. Both starting QBs will be fun to watch, and although Weber has more experience and bigger numbers this year, Pryor's athletic ability makes the comparison a wash at this point in their careers.
Edge: Even
Running Backs
TB #23 DeLeon Eskridge (5-11, 190, FR, Junipero Serra HS, San Francisco)
TB #29 Shady Salamon (5-10, 185, FR, Cretin-Derham Hall HS, South St. Paul, MN)
TB #20 Jay Thomas (6-0, 195, JR, Tartan HS, Oakdale, MN)
True freshman DeLeon Eskridge has taken over for the injured Duane Bennett, and has done well, gaining 204 yads on 47 carries, while scoring 5 TDs. He runs the ball effectively and is also dangerous catching the ball out of the backfield.
Minnesota began the season with Duane Bennett (#22), a youngster with plenty of game-breaking ability, as the starter, but he was was hurt during their second game. He had gained 92 yards and scored twice in the opener, and followed that with 48 yards rushing and 100 yards and a TD receiving in the Bowling Green game before being injured. His numbers are shown below for comparison purposes.
Eskridge has good vision and quickness, but doesn't figure to break many long runs. He did catch 6 passes for 61 yards last week, so needs to be watched on passing plays. Jay Thomas is another capable backup who has 5 TDs and 463 career yards on 81 carries, a solid 5.7 YPC.
RB Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus Ohio State RBs
Eskridge: 47/204 yards, 5 TDs, 4.3 YPC; 6 rec/61 yards, 0 TDs, 10.2 YPR
Bennett (out-injury): 32/140 yards, 2 TD, 4.4 YPC; 12 rec/125 yards, 1 TD, 10.4 YPR
Salamon: 22/122 yards, 2 TDs, 5.5 YPC; 1 rec/13 yards, 0 TDs, 13.0 YPR
C Wells: 13/111 yards, 1 TD, 8.5 YPC; 3 rec/10 yards, 0 TDs, 3.3 YPR
B. Herron 48/212 yards, 1 TD, 4.4 YPC, 4 rec/24 yards, 0 TDs, 6.0 YPR
M Wells: 17/87 yards, 0 TDs, 5.1 YPC; 3 rec/21 yards, 0 TDs, 7.0 YPR
B. Saine: 16/54 yards, 1 TD, 3.4 YPC; 2 rec/17 yards, 0 TDs, 8.5 YPR
B. Smith: 0/0 yards, 0 TD; 3 rec/26 yards, 0 TDs, 8.7 YPR
Eskridge and Herron have both been effective stepping in after an injury, with similar numbers in both carries and yards. Beanie Wells has had great success over his career, but his effectiveness is uncertain after missing the last three games. Both squads also appear to have good depth and multiple options off the bench. Both teams will try to run the ball effectively early, so this position battle should be evident by halftime, and the score on the board might also play a part. For now, the return of Beanie gives the Buckeyes the advantage.
Edge: Ohio State
Wide Receivers
WR #7 Eric Decker (6-2, 215, JR, Rocori HS, Cold Spring, MN)
WR #16 Ben Kuznia (6-0, 186, JR, Bold HS, Olivia, MN)
WR #81 Ralph Spry (5-11, 175, SO, Auburn HS, Auburn, AL)
Junior wide receiver Eric Decker set a new Minnesota single-season record for receptions with 67 last year. The Bruce Smith Award winner as Minnesota's top offensive player in 2007 is on pace to smash that record. If Decker keeps up his current pace, he would tally 96 receptions by the end of the regular season. Decker is currently tied for No. 3 in the nation and is No. 1 in the Big Ten in receptions (8.0 per game). He is 4th in the nation and No. 1 in the Big Ten in receiving yards (113.5 per game). He's doing all this after missing spring football to play baseball. He was the Gophers' starter in left field and batted .329 with 11 doubles, four triples and three home runs last season. Despite making it known that he would not sign a baseball contract, Decker was still selected by the Milwaukee Brewers in the 39th round of the Major League Baseball First-Year Player Draft.
Decker emerged as the go-to man for the Gophers in 2007. He has good size and can be effective both down the field and in the red zone. He's been good in all the games so far, catching 10 for 89 yards and 1 TD against NIU, 6 for 86 yards and 1 score against Bowling Green, 9 for 157 and a TD against Montana State, and 7 for 122 yards and a score against Florida Atlantic last week. He is also a threat on the end-around, which Minnesota has been running fairly often this season.
Kuznia is the #2 receiver, and has just 10 catches for 97 yards and no TDs so far. He's a former walk-on who saw limited action in his first two years on the team, partially due to injury last season.
Spry is a youngster with good speed that is just establishing himself at the position. He had 23 catches for 226 yards and 3 TDs last year, and has 5 grabs for 38 yards so far this season.
Quality depth is a concern, at least in terms of production so far. Freshman Brandon Green (#2) caught his first pass for 7 yards last week, and is the only WR other than the top 3 to have a reception.
WR Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus Ohio State WRs
Decker: 32 catches, 454 yards, 4 TDs, 14.2 YPR; 7 carries, 71 yards, 1 TD, 10.1 YPC
Kuznia: 10 catches, 97 yards, 0 TDs, 9.7 YPR
Spry: 5 catches, 38 yards, 0 TD, 7.6 YPR
Robiskie: 12 catches, 113 yards, 2 TDs, 9.4 YPR
Hartline: 9 catches, 147 yards, 2 TD, 16.3 YPR
Sanzenbacher: 8 catches, 65 yards, 0 TD, 8.1 YPR
Small: 14 catches, 92 yards, 0 TDs, 6.6 YPR
Both of these groups have good players and are very solid at the top. Decker has a good chance at all-conference honors this year, and Robiskie is an established commodity. Opinions vary as to whether his drop on the deep crossing route last week was caused by an injured shoulder or by his surprise at how quickly Pryor's deep ball arrived. Hartline has the edge on Kuznia at the 2 spot in terms of production and experience. Spry is emerging as a decent #3, while the Buckeyes use fewer 3-receiver sets. Decker is a stud, but if the Buckeyes can neutralize him, Minnesota's other receivers will need to prove themselves.
Edge: Ohio State
Tight Ends
TE #80 Jack Simmons (6-4, 240, SR, Carmel HS, Libertyville, IL)
TE #48 Nick Tow-Arnett (6-2, 249, JR, Redwood Valley HS, Redwood Falls, MN)
Simmons was the primary starter last season, and in 2008 has mostly been a blocker (and a good one), though he does have 7 catches after recording 20 last season. Backup TE Nick Tow-Arnett (#48) appears to be the next in a long line of pass-catching TEs and Minnesota, as he has caught 5 passes for 74 yards thus far, though he doesn't have a catch the last two weeks. Both of these players have good size and are solid in their blocking assignments.
TE Rating: B+
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus Ohio State TEs
Simmons: 7 catches, 98 yards, 1 TD, 14.0 YPR
Tow-Arnett: 5 catches, 74 yards, 1 TD, 14.8 YPR
Nicol: 3 catches, 24 yards, 1 TD, 8.0 YPR
Ballard: 2 catches, 34 yards, 0 TDs, 17.0 YPR
The Gophers have two good ones, and both have the ability to get deep (Simmons has a 53-yard TD this year, and Tow-Arnett had a 56-yard catch last year). Nicol and Ballard are solid, but the Gophers use their TEs more and get the edge here.
Edge: Minnesota
Offensive Line
LT #76 Dominic Alford (6-3, 315, SO, Shaker Heights HS, Cleveland, OH)
LG #53 D.J. Burris (6-2, 293, SO, Kenton HS, Kenton, OH)
C #52 Jeff Tow-Arnett (6-2, 285, JR, Redwood Valley HS, Redwood Falls, MN)
RG #66 Ned Tavale (6-2, 329, JR, Cretin-Derham Hall HS, South St. Paul, MN)
RT #60 Ryan Wynn (6-5, 278, FR, Maple Grove HS, Plymouth, MN)
This is a young group with a mixture of experience and newcomers. They do less pulling as a group than they did under Glen Mason's schemes (remember center Greg Eslinger?), but do a better job in pass protection. Alford and Tavale are the best of this group; Tavale is a third-year starter that started all 13 games as a freshman.
Dom Alford is recovering from a sprained ankle, but is expected to start. If he isn't able to go, Jason Meinke (#73) will man the left tackle spot that's key in protecting Weber.
At center, Trey Davis has filled in when Tow-Arnett was dinged up, and may have been on his way to earning the starting job when he broke his snapping hand. If Davis plays, he may be using his other hand to snap, as Cordle did last year for tOSU.
Ryan Ruckdashel (#74) is a former starter who now backs up the guard spots. Other line depth is provided by several promising young players, including Ryan Orton (#78) and Chris Bunders (#68).
OL Rating: B
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus Ohio State OL
The Gophers are a solid group, but have been somewhat dinged up at the LT and center positions. Similar to tOSU, there is also some uncertainty about the RT position. But the line has protected Weber well thus far (6 sacks in 4 games, with only 1 interception) and has opened holes for an effective ground attack, as usual for the Gophers. Both lines are physical, and both like to establish the run, but given the slightly higher caliber of competition, the Buckeyes get a slight nod, though the Gopher line always seems to play well.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Offensive Analysis
The Gophers are a quality offense, who have moved the ball effectively and scored at least 30 points in each of their 4 games thus far. But they've been playing lesser competition so it's hard to get a read on how proficient they'll be in league play. It will be imperative for the Gophers to get off to a good start; they will need to run the ball effectively early and complete a high percentage of passes to keep the clock moving and their defense off the field. There are a lot of young players on the Gophers' roster that indicate the future looks bright - however there have been some growing pains, and will continue to be this season as they make their way through the conference slate. The experienced Buckeye defense will need to rattle Weber and get him off rhythm, as well as shutting down Eskridge and the running game. The Gophers are solid, but if they don't get some big plays from Decker it doesn't appear they will be good enough to move the ball up and down the field deliberately and consistently. Avoiding turnovers, especially interceptions, will be a must, or it will be a long day.
Overall Offensive Rating: B+
2008 Minnesota Golden Gophers Defensive Preview
Returning Starters: 4
It is said that you don't lose 7 of your starters and get better. But, sometimes, you actually do. Witness the Golden Gophers. The 2007 Gophers were nothing short of dreadful on the defensive side of the ball. Despite bringing back a veteran unit, then first year Coordinator Everett Withers could not get his men to stop anyone. He ultimately lost his job to former Duke Blue Devils head man Ted Roof. Roof was slated to be leading the Louisville Cardinals this season, but opted to take on the task of rebuilding the Gophers defense instead. Gopher fans can only hope his approach will yield better results than his predecessor, but Roof's 6-45 record at Duke is not likely to instill much confidence on its face.
Through the first four games, albeit against suspect competition, the defense has performed much better than last season's awful effort. While still having a long way to go before it gets to the top of the Big Ten, the Gophers have limited opponents to 354.8 total yards a game, giving up an average of 17.5 points, while creating 13 turnovers (8 INT, 5 Fumble Recoveries). Absolutely horrid against the pass in 2007, the new secondary has managed to be nearly 45 yards better than the '07 unit. While the 245 yards per game they afford offenses still rates them last in the Big Ten, it is a step in the right direction. On the ground, the Gophers give up 109.8 per game on approximately 30 attempts per game, or 3.6 yards per carry. These numbers are vastly superior to the '07 production, which afforded opposing teams over 229 yards of rush offense, giving up nearly 6 yards per carry.
Again, the season is young and the Gophers have not played any truly gifted offenses this season (the best being Northern Illinois) and the numbers are therefore somewhat untrustworthy. But, there is little direction for the Gophers but up in 2008 and they do seem to be providing teams a much tougher opponent both when the ball is in the air and on the ground. It would seem that Roof's focus on the fundamentals, particularly tackling and generating a pass rush is yielding early dividends.
Defensive Line
DE #93 Derrick Onwuachi (6-5 250 JR)
DT #51 Eric Small (6-2 301 JR)
DT #99 Garrett Brown (6-2 303 JR)
DE #91 Willie VanDeSteeg (6-4 256 SR)
Leadership on the line is provided by senior end Willie VanDeSteeg. Battling an injury for the second half of 07, he was unable to improve on his impressive sophomore numbers where he recorded 10 sacks. He needs to prove that he can reproduce his sophomore production consistently this season for the line to be successful. VanDeSteeg has had a good start. While he has 1.5 sacks, he has 6 TFLs to go along with his 17 overall tackles, good for 6th on the team and tops among linemen. He also has a fumble recovery. Small, like VanDeSteeg, a returning starter, has bulked up from his playing weight of 280 last year wherein he was pushed around providing little inside presence. The former JUCO did little to pressure the QB and is expected to step up his performance this season. As yet, he has failed to do anything extraordinary recording just a single tackle in four games. Brown provides additional beef to the inside, but like Small must show improvement getting to the QB. He has 6 tackles, 1.5 for loss with .5 sacks and a fumble recovery thus far in 2008. Onwuachi had a decent first season in Minneapolis where he recorded 16 tackles, two sacks, and 3 TFLs while starting the second half of the year. He needs to establish more consistency in production, however, to be considered a player on VanDeSteeg's level. He has 10 tackles with 3 for loss thus far.
The depth will come from DEs; JUCO Transfer #55, Cedric McKinley (6-5 250 JR), #92 William Brody (6-4, 250 SR), and #90 Raymond Henderson (6-5 251 JR) and DTs; #68 Jewhan Edwards (6-2 320 FR), #89 Barrett Moen (6-3 275 JR) and #96 Brandon Kirksey (6-2, 265 FR) As of this writing, Edwards leads the reserves with 7 tackles with 1 for loss, while none of the others listed have recorded more than Brody's and Moen's 2 tackles, nor does any have more than Moen's 1.5 sacks. While each of Henderson, Kirksey and McKinley have seen action, each has a single tackle, with Kirksey's coming behind the line of scrimmage.
DL Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus OSU DL
This unit is clearly performing better than last year's banged up unit. But, that said, it still has quite a way to go to be considered among the league's best. Of course, statistically speaking, the Buckeyes are hard pressed to stake any claim on such a title either. The Buckeyes have given up about 11 yards a game less on the ground, but also give up a tenth of a yard more per carry. Each unit has recorded approximately the same number of sacks with the Buckeyes having 4 and Minnesota 3.5. But, the similarity ends there with the Buckeyes having more depth, and more players contributing meaningful minutes in meaningful situations. Likewise, the Buckeyes have played a tougher schedule to this point, and the numbers bear witness to the same. Over the course of the year, the Buckeyes line should prove to be the better of the two. While the Gophers have a lot of weight on the inside, they have as much or more trouble than do the lighter Buckeyes at stopping the run and getting to the QB. On the ends, both Cam Heyward and Lawrence Wilson would be starting at Minnesota. Though, if VanDeSteeg plays up to and improves on his sophomore numbers, he could be better than either of them this season. While we give the Buckeyes the slight edge here, if the Gophers match up anywhere defensively, this is the place.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #44 Deon Hightower (6-3 226 SR)
MLB #30 Lee Campbell (6-3 256 JR)
WLB #28 Kevin Mannion (6-2 218 SR)
Campbell played with his hand down last season as a defensive end opposite VanDeSteeg, and then in his place when the latter was injured. Now he finds himself the team's second leading tackler with 21, to go along with 1 sack, a pick and a fumble recovery. The coaches like his ability to stay active, and he provides the Gophers LB corps some size and run support ability. Hightower is the team's leading returning tackler with 70 last season. Able to play the strong side as well as in the middle, Hightower struggles in pass coverage. He could benefit from being more of a ball hawk as well, though when he's in position to make the play he usually does. He has 16 tackles, 3.5 for loss and a fumble recovery thus far in 2008. Mannion is a former walk on who has played his way in to his role with the Gophers LB corps. While he's not the most talented player on the bus he provides solid senior leadership and work ethic. He has 8 tackles with 1 for loss in 2008.
Backups include, #21 Simoni Lawrence (6-1 205 JR), #56 Steve Davis (6-1 226 SR) and #32 Nathan Triplett (6-3 236 JR) Each of the three backups has seen plenty of action, and each is in the top 10 for team leaders in tackles. Lawrence leads the way with 18 tackles, 2.5 for loss, 1.5 sacks along with a 50 yard INT. Undersized at 205, he is reliant on his speed more than his power. Davis was a starter in 2007 and can deliver the big hit. That said, he can also get blown off the point of attack on occasion and needs to be more physical more consistently. He has 16 tackles with 1.5 for loss to begin his senior year. Triplett is also a former walk on who can play on the strong side or in the middle if needed. The second biggest of all the LBs, he has decent range as well. He has 10 tackles.
LB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus OSU LBs
While moving Campbell to LB from his DE position in 07 has helped provide some meat to the unit, the Minnesota corps is undersized and far to inconsistent to be considered in the same class as Ohio State's unit. While the Buckeyes have two 2009 first round NFL draft picks starting, and excellent talent waiting in the wings behind them, Minnesota has two former walk ons in the two deep and among the team leaders in tackles. While that speaks a lot about some of Minnesota's heart, it also speaks about the talent gap at this position.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #Traye Simmons (5-11 175 JR)
FS #27 Kyle Theret (5-11 185 SO)
SS #1 Tramaine Brock (5-10 194 JR)
LCB #24 Marcus Sherels (5-11 165 JR)
Gone is long time "lone bright spot" of Minnesota's miserable secondary Dominique Barber and his team leading 100 tackles. But this unit should be, on the whole, better than last year's unit. Brock, a JUCO transfer is far and away the group's top player now. Not the biggest of men at strong safety, Brock still is capable of bringing the wood and he has the speed to stick with just about anyone. He leads the Gophers with 28 tackles with a pick. Theret is also not the biggest of safeties out there, but has good speed for the position. He led the team with 3 INTs last season, and has the early lead in 2008 with two for 65 yards. He also has 20 tackles, with .5 for loss. The 20 tackles makes him 3rd on the team. Simmons is another JUCO transfer brought in to try and bring immediate help to the secondary. Undersized at 5-11, 175, he does have excellent quickness and makes sound tackles. Considered among the best at the JUCO level, all he has done thus far is record 2 INTs, 18 tackles and an impressive 6 pass break-ups. If he continues his production, he could see his stock rise despite his size. Sherels played WR last season, recording 3 catches for 46 yards and a score. He also saw plenty of action on special teams. Now he takes his skills to the defensive side of the ball where he'll rely on his speed to stick with his man. Again, undersized at 165 pounds, he will need to show he can deliver a hit against bigger wideouts. He has 16 tackles and a pick this season.
Depth comes from CBs; #2 Ryan Collado (5-9 176 SO) and #13 Michael McKelton (5-10 179 JR), and Safeties, #25 Tim Dandridge (6-1 180 FR), #26 Mike Rallis (6-2 225 FR), and #4 Keanon Cooper (6-0 200 FR). Collando started for the Gophers in 2007 as a freshman and showed to be decent in run support, though his coverage skills left something to be desired. He has seen action in each contest this year, recording 4 tackles and a fumble recovery. McKelton has been in just 1 game this far, but made two tackles. Of the freshme, neither Dandridge nor Cooper has yet to see action, but Ralis - huge for this secondary at 225 pounds - has played in each of Minnesota's games recording 6 tackles. As the season wears on, the Gophers may come to appreciate his size even more.
DB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus OSU DBs
While this group is heading in the right direction, it's hard to imagine a secondary which could be worse than last year's collection. That is, unless you count the Minnesota secondary of 2 years ago. Whatever the case, even with marked improvement this unit remains the Gophers' chief liability. Each of the DBs is small for their position and while generally able, cannot be relied upon to provide solid run support consistently. They have enough speed to stay with about any WR they'll face, but they don't have enough bulk to ensure the man goes down after the catch consistently. The Buckeyes, by contrast, lead the Big Ten in pass defense giving up just 149 yards per game, while recording 7 picks. While the Gophers have given up 44 first downs to the pass, the Buckeyes have given up just 27. The Buckeyes enjoy a first round talent at corner in Malcolm Jenkins where the Gophers do not, and the Buckeyes have a clear advantage when it comes to depth.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
There isn't really any other direction for the Gophers to go but up. While there has been some signs of that, this defense still has a long way to go before it can be considered a strength of Gopher football. The Gophers are under their 3rd Coordinator in as many years, and must continue to focus on sound fundamentals to maintain their upward trend for the remainder of the season. The D line is the best overall sub-unit, and it has done well against the run comparative to last year's lousy effort. But, it still has trouble stopping the ball, and it must establish that it can get to the QB to help the undersized secondary which rated 115th last season. The LBs are decent but the Gophers do not enjoy a true playmaker at the position. Overall, the Gophers are an improved defense, but they are not yet at a point where they should stop offenses consistently. A mobile QB like Terrelle Pryor might have a field day, especially if the DBs play man and turn their backs on the run threat. If Beanie Wells were to play extensively, yards would come in bunches, but Boom should also find room to run this week.
Overall Defensive Rating: C
Through the first four games, albeit against suspect competition, the defense has performed much better than last season's awful effort. While still having a long way to go before it gets to the top of the Big Ten, the Gophers have limited opponents to 354.8 total yards a game, giving up an average of 17.5 points, while creating 13 turnovers (8 INT, 5 Fumble Recoveries). Absolutely horrid against the pass in 2007, the new secondary has managed to be nearly 45 yards better than the '07 unit. While the 245 yards per game they afford offenses still rates them last in the Big Ten, it is a step in the right direction. On the ground, the Gophers give up 109.8 per game on approximately 30 attempts per game, or 3.6 yards per carry. These numbers are vastly superior to the '07 production, which afforded opposing teams over 229 yards of rush offense, giving up nearly 6 yards per carry.
Again, the season is young and the Gophers have not played any truly gifted offenses this season (the best being Northern Illinois) and the numbers are therefore somewhat untrustworthy. But, there is little direction for the Gophers but up in 2008 and they do seem to be providing teams a much tougher opponent both when the ball is in the air and on the ground. It would seem that Roof's focus on the fundamentals, particularly tackling and generating a pass rush is yielding early dividends.
Defensive Line
DE #93 Derrick Onwuachi (6-5 250 JR)
DT #51 Eric Small (6-2 301 JR)
DT #99 Garrett Brown (6-2 303 JR)
DE #91 Willie VanDeSteeg (6-4 256 SR)
Leadership on the line is provided by senior end Willie VanDeSteeg. Battling an injury for the second half of 07, he was unable to improve on his impressive sophomore numbers where he recorded 10 sacks. He needs to prove that he can reproduce his sophomore production consistently this season for the line to be successful. VanDeSteeg has had a good start. While he has 1.5 sacks, he has 6 TFLs to go along with his 17 overall tackles, good for 6th on the team and tops among linemen. He also has a fumble recovery. Small, like VanDeSteeg, a returning starter, has bulked up from his playing weight of 280 last year wherein he was pushed around providing little inside presence. The former JUCO did little to pressure the QB and is expected to step up his performance this season. As yet, he has failed to do anything extraordinary recording just a single tackle in four games. Brown provides additional beef to the inside, but like Small must show improvement getting to the QB. He has 6 tackles, 1.5 for loss with .5 sacks and a fumble recovery thus far in 2008. Onwuachi had a decent first season in Minneapolis where he recorded 16 tackles, two sacks, and 3 TFLs while starting the second half of the year. He needs to establish more consistency in production, however, to be considered a player on VanDeSteeg's level. He has 10 tackles with 3 for loss thus far.
The depth will come from DEs; JUCO Transfer #55, Cedric McKinley (6-5 250 JR), #92 William Brody (6-4, 250 SR), and #90 Raymond Henderson (6-5 251 JR) and DTs; #68 Jewhan Edwards (6-2 320 FR), #89 Barrett Moen (6-3 275 JR) and #96 Brandon Kirksey (6-2, 265 FR) As of this writing, Edwards leads the reserves with 7 tackles with 1 for loss, while none of the others listed have recorded more than Brody's and Moen's 2 tackles, nor does any have more than Moen's 1.5 sacks. While each of Henderson, Kirksey and McKinley have seen action, each has a single tackle, with Kirksey's coming behind the line of scrimmage.
DL Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus OSU DL
This unit is clearly performing better than last year's banged up unit. But, that said, it still has quite a way to go to be considered among the league's best. Of course, statistically speaking, the Buckeyes are hard pressed to stake any claim on such a title either. The Buckeyes have given up about 11 yards a game less on the ground, but also give up a tenth of a yard more per carry. Each unit has recorded approximately the same number of sacks with the Buckeyes having 4 and Minnesota 3.5. But, the similarity ends there with the Buckeyes having more depth, and more players contributing meaningful minutes in meaningful situations. Likewise, the Buckeyes have played a tougher schedule to this point, and the numbers bear witness to the same. Over the course of the year, the Buckeyes line should prove to be the better of the two. While the Gophers have a lot of weight on the inside, they have as much or more trouble than do the lighter Buckeyes at stopping the run and getting to the QB. On the ends, both Cam Heyward and Lawrence Wilson would be starting at Minnesota. Though, if VanDeSteeg plays up to and improves on his sophomore numbers, he could be better than either of them this season. While we give the Buckeyes the slight edge here, if the Gophers match up anywhere defensively, this is the place.
Edge: Ohio State
Linebackers
OLB #44 Deon Hightower (6-3 226 SR)
MLB #30 Lee Campbell (6-3 256 JR)
WLB #28 Kevin Mannion (6-2 218 SR)
Campbell played with his hand down last season as a defensive end opposite VanDeSteeg, and then in his place when the latter was injured. Now he finds himself the team's second leading tackler with 21, to go along with 1 sack, a pick and a fumble recovery. The coaches like his ability to stay active, and he provides the Gophers LB corps some size and run support ability. Hightower is the team's leading returning tackler with 70 last season. Able to play the strong side as well as in the middle, Hightower struggles in pass coverage. He could benefit from being more of a ball hawk as well, though when he's in position to make the play he usually does. He has 16 tackles, 3.5 for loss and a fumble recovery thus far in 2008. Mannion is a former walk on who has played his way in to his role with the Gophers LB corps. While he's not the most talented player on the bus he provides solid senior leadership and work ethic. He has 8 tackles with 1 for loss in 2008.
Backups include, #21 Simoni Lawrence (6-1 205 JR), #56 Steve Davis (6-1 226 SR) and #32 Nathan Triplett (6-3 236 JR) Each of the three backups has seen plenty of action, and each is in the top 10 for team leaders in tackles. Lawrence leads the way with 18 tackles, 2.5 for loss, 1.5 sacks along with a 50 yard INT. Undersized at 205, he is reliant on his speed more than his power. Davis was a starter in 2007 and can deliver the big hit. That said, he can also get blown off the point of attack on occasion and needs to be more physical more consistently. He has 16 tackles with 1.5 for loss to begin his senior year. Triplett is also a former walk on who can play on the strong side or in the middle if needed. The second biggest of all the LBs, he has decent range as well. He has 10 tackles.
LB Rating: C
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus OSU LBs
While moving Campbell to LB from his DE position in 07 has helped provide some meat to the unit, the Minnesota corps is undersized and far to inconsistent to be considered in the same class as Ohio State's unit. While the Buckeyes have two 2009 first round NFL draft picks starting, and excellent talent waiting in the wings behind them, Minnesota has two former walk ons in the two deep and among the team leaders in tackles. While that speaks a lot about some of Minnesota's heart, it also speaks about the talent gap at this position.
Edge: Ohio State
Secondary
RCB #Traye Simmons (5-11 175 JR)
FS #27 Kyle Theret (5-11 185 SO)
SS #1 Tramaine Brock (5-10 194 JR)
LCB #24 Marcus Sherels (5-11 165 JR)
Gone is long time "lone bright spot" of Minnesota's miserable secondary Dominique Barber and his team leading 100 tackles. But this unit should be, on the whole, better than last year's unit. Brock, a JUCO transfer is far and away the group's top player now. Not the biggest of men at strong safety, Brock still is capable of bringing the wood and he has the speed to stick with just about anyone. He leads the Gophers with 28 tackles with a pick. Theret is also not the biggest of safeties out there, but has good speed for the position. He led the team with 3 INTs last season, and has the early lead in 2008 with two for 65 yards. He also has 20 tackles, with .5 for loss. The 20 tackles makes him 3rd on the team. Simmons is another JUCO transfer brought in to try and bring immediate help to the secondary. Undersized at 5-11, 175, he does have excellent quickness and makes sound tackles. Considered among the best at the JUCO level, all he has done thus far is record 2 INTs, 18 tackles and an impressive 6 pass break-ups. If he continues his production, he could see his stock rise despite his size. Sherels played WR last season, recording 3 catches for 46 yards and a score. He also saw plenty of action on special teams. Now he takes his skills to the defensive side of the ball where he'll rely on his speed to stick with his man. Again, undersized at 165 pounds, he will need to show he can deliver a hit against bigger wideouts. He has 16 tackles and a pick this season.
Depth comes from CBs; #2 Ryan Collado (5-9 176 SO) and #13 Michael McKelton (5-10 179 JR), and Safeties, #25 Tim Dandridge (6-1 180 FR), #26 Mike Rallis (6-2 225 FR), and #4 Keanon Cooper (6-0 200 FR). Collando started for the Gophers in 2007 as a freshman and showed to be decent in run support, though his coverage skills left something to be desired. He has seen action in each contest this year, recording 4 tackles and a fumble recovery. McKelton has been in just 1 game this far, but made two tackles. Of the freshme, neither Dandridge nor Cooper has yet to see action, but Ralis - huge for this secondary at 225 pounds - has played in each of Minnesota's games recording 6 tackles. As the season wears on, the Gophers may come to appreciate his size even more.
DB Rating: C-
Head-to-Head: Minnesota versus OSU DBs
While this group is heading in the right direction, it's hard to imagine a secondary which could be worse than last year's collection. That is, unless you count the Minnesota secondary of 2 years ago. Whatever the case, even with marked improvement this unit remains the Gophers' chief liability. Each of the DBs is small for their position and while generally able, cannot be relied upon to provide solid run support consistently. They have enough speed to stay with about any WR they'll face, but they don't have enough bulk to ensure the man goes down after the catch consistently. The Buckeyes, by contrast, lead the Big Ten in pass defense giving up just 149 yards per game, while recording 7 picks. While the Gophers have given up 44 first downs to the pass, the Buckeyes have given up just 27. The Buckeyes enjoy a first round talent at corner in Malcolm Jenkins where the Gophers do not, and the Buckeyes have a clear advantage when it comes to depth.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Defensive Analysis
There isn't really any other direction for the Gophers to go but up. While there has been some signs of that, this defense still has a long way to go before it can be considered a strength of Gopher football. The Gophers are under their 3rd Coordinator in as many years, and must continue to focus on sound fundamentals to maintain their upward trend for the remainder of the season. The D line is the best overall sub-unit, and it has done well against the run comparative to last year's lousy effort. But, it still has trouble stopping the ball, and it must establish that it can get to the QB to help the undersized secondary which rated 115th last season. The LBs are decent but the Gophers do not enjoy a true playmaker at the position. Overall, the Gophers are an improved defense, but they are not yet at a point where they should stop offenses consistently. A mobile QB like Terrelle Pryor might have a field day, especially if the DBs play man and turn their backs on the run threat. If Beanie Wells were to play extensively, yards would come in bunches, but Boom should also find room to run this week.
Overall Defensive Rating: C
2008 Minnesota Golden Gophers Special Teams Preview
Returning Starters: 2
The Gophers Special Teams were in a little bit of turmoil coming into this season. The leading kickoff returner from a year ago was suspended for academic reasons, and the starting kicker went 1 of 4 last year before being replaced. They look to improve in 2008 and so far are doing well.
Special Teams
P #41 Justin Kucek (6-0, 206, Sr., Canfield, OH)
PK #36 Joel Monroe (5-11, 195, Sr., Brooklyn Park, MN)
PR #24 Marcus Sherels (5-11, 166, Jr., Rochester, MN)
PR #7 Eric Decker (6-2, 215, Jr., Cold Spring, MN)
KR #11 Troy Stoudermire (5-10, 185, Fr., Dallas, TX)
KR #20 Jay Thomas (6-0, 195, Jr., Oakdale, MN)
LS # Ryan Coleman (6-1, 225, So., Brookfield, WI)
Last year Kucek punted 62 times for an average of 42.66 yds, good for 22nd in the Nation. This year so far he is averaged 40.3. Neither Monroe nor last season's starter Giannini were in the top 100 in FGs in the nation. This year Monroe is 2-3 in the FG department and 19-20 in PATs. The punt return team had a hard time as well in 2007, only averaging 5.35 yds on 20 returns, good for only 112th in the Nation. The kickoff team failed considerably better, averaging 23.25 yds a return with 1 TD (24th in the country). So far this year, Minnesota is doing much better, averaging 11.75 yds per punt return and 25.9 yds per kickoff return. Sherels has 8 returns for 94 yds (11.8 avg), with his longest being a 34 yard one to lead the team. In kickoffs, Stoudermire has 9 returns for 276 yds (30.7 avg), with a long of 48.
The punt return defense last year was dismal as well, allowing 14.6 yds per punt return (113th in the Nation). The kickoff defense was better, giving up an average of only 19.62 yds a return (but allowing one TD). This year so far has brought improvement in punt defense allowing only 7.9 yds per return. The kickoff defense is about the same as last year, allowing only 20 yds per return.
ST Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Minnesota returners versus OSU STs/Minnesota return defense vs OSU's STs
The Gophers are not blessed with blazing speed in the return game. They are also inexperienced. As with the past few weeks, Ohio State should use their Special Teams play to their advantage. The Buckeyes need to continue improving their own kickoff returning, the only special team that Minnesota has an advantage.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
The Gophers bring a blend of inexperience and inconsistency in their overall Special Teams play this Saturday to the 'Shoe. The Buckeyes' special teams had a great game vs. Troy last week, with the punt team leading the way. OSU pinned the Trojans deep on several punts. This helped keep their potent offense bottled up. The Buckeyes look to continue improving vs the Gophers.
Overall Special Teams Rating: C+
Special Teams
P #41 Justin Kucek (6-0, 206, Sr., Canfield, OH)
PK #36 Joel Monroe (5-11, 195, Sr., Brooklyn Park, MN)
PR #24 Marcus Sherels (5-11, 166, Jr., Rochester, MN)
PR #7 Eric Decker (6-2, 215, Jr., Cold Spring, MN)
KR #11 Troy Stoudermire (5-10, 185, Fr., Dallas, TX)
KR #20 Jay Thomas (6-0, 195, Jr., Oakdale, MN)
LS # Ryan Coleman (6-1, 225, So., Brookfield, WI)
Last year Kucek punted 62 times for an average of 42.66 yds, good for 22nd in the Nation. This year so far he is averaged 40.3. Neither Monroe nor last season's starter Giannini were in the top 100 in FGs in the nation. This year Monroe is 2-3 in the FG department and 19-20 in PATs. The punt return team had a hard time as well in 2007, only averaging 5.35 yds on 20 returns, good for only 112th in the Nation. The kickoff team failed considerably better, averaging 23.25 yds a return with 1 TD (24th in the country). So far this year, Minnesota is doing much better, averaging 11.75 yds per punt return and 25.9 yds per kickoff return. Sherels has 8 returns for 94 yds (11.8 avg), with his longest being a 34 yard one to lead the team. In kickoffs, Stoudermire has 9 returns for 276 yds (30.7 avg), with a long of 48.
The punt return defense last year was dismal as well, allowing 14.6 yds per punt return (113th in the Nation). The kickoff defense was better, giving up an average of only 19.62 yds a return (but allowing one TD). This year so far has brought improvement in punt defense allowing only 7.9 yds per return. The kickoff defense is about the same as last year, allowing only 20 yds per return.
ST Rating: C+
Head-to-Head: Minnesota returners versus OSU STs/Minnesota return defense vs OSU's STs
The Gophers are not blessed with blazing speed in the return game. They are also inexperienced. As with the past few weeks, Ohio State should use their Special Teams play to their advantage. The Buckeyes need to continue improving their own kickoff returning, the only special team that Minnesota has an advantage.
Edge: Ohio State
Overall Special Teams Analysis
The Gophers bring a blend of inexperience and inconsistency in their overall Special Teams play this Saturday to the 'Shoe. The Buckeyes' special teams had a great game vs. Troy last week, with the punt team leading the way. OSU pinned the Trojans deep on several punts. This helped keep their potent offense bottled up. The Buckeyes look to continue improving vs the Gophers.
Overall Special Teams Rating: C+
Predictions
BB73's prediction: 34-13, Ohio State
BuckeyeRyn's prediction: ??-??, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 35-10, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 38-20, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 33-13, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 35-17, Ohio State
JCOSU86's Prediction: 40-9, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 28-13, Ohio State
Buckeyeskickbuttocks' prediction: 35-10, Ohio State
Bucklion's prediction: 38-20, Ohio State
DaddyBigBucks's prediction: 33-13, Ohio State
jwinslow's prediction: 35-17, Ohio State
JCOSU86's Prediction: 40-9, Ohio State
3yardsandacloud's prediction: 28-13, Ohio State
Previous Game's Results (OSU 28 - Troy 10)
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