Minnesota Gophers Face Tall Task as They Enter the “Big House”

For the University of Minnesota Football team, their path to success takes a rough turn today as they play the Michigan Wolverines at the “Big House.” Each team is going in different directions on the momentum scale. The Gophers are reeling from a third-quarter meltdown against Iowa last week. And the Wolverines are buoyant after defeating an exceptional USC team in come-from-behind fashion.

The Gophers can ill afford falling further behind in the Big Ten race, and Michigan does not want to stub its toe losing to a beatable opponent.

Gophers Offense vs. Wolverines Defense

Photo byJacob RiceonUnsplash

This does not look like a fair matchup on paper. The usually dynamic Minnesota ground game has been on lockdown most of the season. Their offensive line, which looked like a strength coming into the season, has been ineffective in opening up holes for running backs Darius Taylor and Oklahoma transfer Marcus Major. The veteran unit led by All-American candidate Aireontae Ersery has to find a way to up their game against a tenacious Michigan front seven led by the talented Marcus Graham.

Due to their difficulties in running the ball, the Gophers have become a pass to set up the run offense. Quarterback Max Brosmer has had some nice moments, but he has had limited time to throw the ball. Look for him to find All-Big Ten receiver Daniel Jackson and blossoming tight end Jameson Geers over the middle and some dump passes to the backs. When he drops back, Brosmer must be aware of Wolverines cornerback Will Johnson, who had a pick-six last week against USC.

Gophers Defense vs. Wolverines Offense

Both the Gophers’ offensive and defensive lines have been under intense scrutiny so far this season. Minnesota’s D has forced some turnovers this season and, at times, has been effective at pressuring the quarterback. But they were rolled over by the two quality backs they faced this season, North Carolina’s Omarion Hampton and Iowa’s Kaleb Johnson. This trend has to stop for the Gophers to salvage their season. Middle linebacker Cody Lindenberg and monster back Jack Henderson must lead this charge.

Fortunately for the Gophers, the Michigan attack is more one-dimensional this season. Gone is quarterback J.J. McCarthy, replaced by Alex Orji, who is a run-first and pass-second QB. Minnesota has to force Michigan into must-pass situations to stay in the game. Jah Joyner and Danny Striggow have to bring the heat while cornerback Ethan Robinson and Henderson look for turnover opportunities,

Otherwise, they will see the Kalel Mullings and Donovan Edwards tandem all day. These change-of-pace backs, led by another ‘big’ Michigan offensive line, have wreaked havoc so far this season, and they are playing a Gophers team that has been subpar against the run all season.

Outcome

Unless the Minnesota lines pick up the pace this game, it could be a long afternoon for coach P.J. Fleck and his squad. An early turnover would certainly give Minnesota the spark they need to stay competitive in this game. Otherwise, it will be a long Michigan grind them off-the-field game.

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Article originally written by Greg Simbeck