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Big Ten Week 1 Power Rankings: Illinois Makes Strong Opening Claim

By Noah Strackbein

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Sep 1, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; (Caption Here)Minnesota Golden Gophers wide receiver Drew Wolitarsky (82) catches a pass for a first down in the second half against the Oregon State Beavers 30-23. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 1, 2016; Minneapolis, MN, USA; (Caption Here)Minnesota Golden Gophers wide receiver Drew Wolitarsky (82) catches a pass for a first down in the second half against the Oregon State Beavers 30-23. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports /

No. 10 Minnesota

Week 1 result – 30-23 win over Oregon State

Minnesota may have been the only Big Ten team to play an “actual” matchup this week, except for Wisconsin.

Their 30-23 win over the Beavers was impressive. For an opening weekend game, it was as competitive as they come, with Minnesota scoring 13 unanswered points to seal a victory.

The biggest takeaway from the game, Minnesota’s ground attack. The Golden Gophers’ two-back committee combined for 201 yards and four touchdowns in Week 1. Rodney Smith and Mitch Leidner are making an early season bid as the best duo in the conference. If they can continue their strong play as the year goes on Minnesota could claim a few extra W’s in 2016.

Right now, Minnesota is still a mystery. But they made a good claim for themselves by beating Oregon State in Week 1.

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