/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/65454830/1172513861.jpg.0.jpg)
And here we go with a crucial game for the Gophers. This game is the one game that I believe may separate a good season from a special one. Is that a little bit of hyperbole or a rather strong statement to open today’s thread? Maybe, but only because a loss really isn’t damaging to the season. But for a truly special season, it is my belief that this game is really huge.
So can the Gophers take care of Nebraska on this blustery day and move to 6-0?
3 KEYS
- Limit Big Plays - Regardless of who is at quarterback for the Huskers, this team has playmakers on offense. They are capable of a huge play every snap. Last year the Gophers were gashed by big plays down in Lincoln. In 2019 the defense has been pretty good at making teams drive, that is key today. Their offense has not been great at grinding out drives, so make them earn it.
- Turnovers - Always important but it is one of today’s keys. Tanner? No stupid first quarter interceptions please.
- Run the Ball Well - Crappy weather with wind and rain/snow is going to make for an interesting game. Seems like a safe assumption that the ground game is going to be important. Time for the big offensive line to open up holes against that big Nebraska front.
OPPOSING PLAYERS TO WATCH
- #1 WR - Wan’Dale Robinson - Big play receiver! This guy is so dangerous.
- #21 DB - Lamar Jackson - Leads the Big Ten in passes defensed and has 2 picks. If we are moving the ball through the air, his matchup with one of our stud receivers should be very interesting to watch.
PREDICTION
I think that the Gophers will win this game. The undefeated record, the recent top 25 ranking and all of the positivity can often bread overconfidence and not playing your next game with the necessary edge required to win at this level. But I think the way the Gophers were gashed last year can only serve as the perfect lesson that they better show up with that edge today.
I’m feeling confident today. This Nebraska offense will hit on a couple big plays but the Gophers dominate time of possession and force a handful of 3-and-outs to keep Nebraska at bay.
Minnesota - 31
Nebraska - 23