Big Ten Power Rankings: Has Ohio State done enough to be No.1?
By Mark Rogers
Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
On The Fringe
8. Minnesota (3-1)
TCU is considered one of the best teams in the country and the Golden Gophers hung in until the closing minutes in a 23-17 loss. Especially for a program like Minnesota, it’s a good loss if you believe in good losses. I do.
Otherwise, the Gophers have impressed little in defeating MAC teams Kent State and Ohio the last two weeks 10-7 and 27-24. Minnesota could’ve easily lost both games. It didn’t.
Despite the close call vs the Bobcats, Minnesota did find a little offense under the embattled Mitch Leidner (22 for 32, 264 yards). Freshmen Rodney Smith and Shannon Brooks give Minnesota its customary dependable rushing attack. The Gophers gained 468 yards vs Ohio – by far a season best.
Minnesota once boasted one of the best secondaries in the nation. Right now the DB’s are beat up. Three players are out. All-Big Ten cornerback Briean Boddy-Calhoun is questionable for next week.
Next: Nebraska