There have already been some things written about Minnesota's offense here at 11W this week - so there's really no need to cover old ground in that regard. But for those who would like to take a look at the other side of the ball as well, here is some basic information on the Golden Gophers' defense.
Minnesota (4-4, 1-3 B1G) is fresh off a thrilling near-upset of Michigan. Bungled clock management by interim Head Coach, Tracy Claeys and his staff contributed to a lost opportunity for an emotionally charged upset of the Wolverines on the heels of (former head coach) Jerry Kill's early retirement (due to health concerns).
Minnesota has its pluses and minuses defensively. Running a base 4-3, they are ranked 25th nationally in total defense - giving up 324.6 total yards and 23.9 points per game (according to ncaa statistics**).
While the Gophers are ranked a very respectable 14th nationally verses the pass - giving up only 176.3 yards per game. Against the rush, Minnesota is ranked 48th nationally - yielding 148.1 ypg.
To help put that in to some sort of perspective, the Buckeyes are ranked 12th nationally in total defense - giving up an average of 301.1 yards per game - and 15.1 points. OSU is 49th verses the run (151.9 ypg) and 2nd nationally against the pass (149.3 ypg).
The area that stands out most for the Gophers is definitely their defensive backfield. They're deeper at corner than any team we've faced so far this season - possibly including Virginia Tech.
Junior corner, Jalen Myrick, leads the tem in interceptions - in spite of the fact he's not even listed as a starter**. Eric Murray and Briean Boddy-Calhoun are both excellent corners, as well. Senior safety, Antonio Johnson, is the team's second leading tackler.
The middle of Minnesota's defense is fairly solid. Steven Richardson, a defensive tackle, leads the team in sacks and middle linebacker, Cody Poock, is the team leader in tackles.
They're not terribly big at end though. Theiren Cockran is listed at 6'6" - 257lbs - but Hendrick Epke comes in at only 243. Compare that to Ohio State's starting ends. Joey Bosa is listed at 6'6" - 275lbs - and Tyquan Lewis, at 6'4" - 260.
The Gophers' size disadvantage at end could come in to play - especially, later in the game after continuous contact with the 300lb+ Slobs. Even the Buckeyes' starting tight end, Nick Vannett, has a slight edge over either player.
Assuming Cardale Jones and his receivers can connect often enough to keep Minnesota from loading the box with impunity - it would not be surprising to see Ezekiel Elliott have a huge performance - particularly in the second half, once again.
As mentioned, the Gophers are coming off a big emotional game verses Michigan. Whereas, Ohio State is coming off a much needed bye week - and playing at home - at night. Even without the services of their starting quarterback, JT Barrett, a lot of the elements for strong outing in every phase of the game are in place.
Prediction: Minnesota - 16 Ohio State - 56
*http://www.ncaa.com/stats/football/fbs/current/team/22
**http://www.ourlads.com/ncaa-football-depth-charts/roster/minnesota/91188
