Numbers-wise, this was a pretty bad loss. The offense committed two interceptions and rushed for just 65 yards on the day. Nebraska rolled up 464 yards of total offense and avoided interceptions entirely. The bright spot for the Gophers was- shockingly- the passing game, as Nebraska frequently loaded up at the line of scrimmage. If the team could combine this level of proficiency through the air with the rushing success they had against Purdue, we’d be talking about whether they could beat the likes of Iowa, Illinois, and Wisconsin to finish the season out. As it is, bowl eligibility is likely but not a given.
What can Gophers Take Away from Loss to Huskers
The Positive:
-Aside from the two picks, Mitch Leidner had one of his better games, completing 26 of 40 attempts for 301 yards and a touchdown. I’d still like his completion percentage to be a bit higher, but he’s moving in the right direction.
-Five different players caught at least one pass for the Gophers, led by K.J. Maye’s 11 receptions for 94 yards. As was also the case a week earlier, this was accomplished with a patchwork offensive line and a true freshman starting at center.
-With a week off before facing Michigan on Halloween, it’s possible the offensive line could be back to normal, or at least closer to it, for the next game.
-Special teams were good. Ryan Santoso made his only field goal attempt, Peter Mortell averaged 51 yards per punt, and all three kick returners (Myrick, Maye, and Johnson) were effective. Minnesota also did a nice job downing a couple of punts deep in their own territory to give the Huskers lousy field position.
The Negative:
-The run game took a step back after dominating against Purdue. (Granted, Nebraska’s defense is far stouter).
-The defense was uncharacteristically sloppy at times. I know there have been injuries in the secondary, as well as to linebacker Cody Poock, who missed the game; with luck, the week off will let those guys get back to full strength.
It seems like a 48-25 loss should have more negatives, but I was honestly happy with much of the effort. Look for my preview of the Michigan game toward the middle of next week.
