The Daily Gopher - Minnesota vs. Oregon State: Predictions, Preview, Streaming, Schedule, Odds, TV and moreYour online home for Minnesota Golden Gophers football, basketball and hockey.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/49211/daily-gopher-fave.png2016-09-06T08:23:33-05:00http://www.thedailygopher.com/rss/stream/125149152016-09-06T08:23:33-05:002016-09-06T08:23:33-05:003 Stars, 4 Quarters, 5 Thoughts - Oregon State
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<p>A numerical summation of Minnesota's first game of the season against the Oregon State Beavers</p> <p>Greetings Gopher Faithful! Week one is in the books and we officially have real game action to talk about. I'm taking over the 3,4,5 weekly feature in place of Norsk_Gopher who did a fantastic job last year with summarizing each game with three simple categories represented by three consecutive numbers. Each week, I'll give you the three stars, a quick summary of the four quarters, and five quick thoughts about the game. Ideally, it will be a fitting conclusion as we turn our attention to following week's impending matchup. I hope you all enjoy it!</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Last night's game, by the numbers. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OSUvsMINN?src=hash">#OSUvsMINN</a> <a href="https://t.co/z8D1o25pDJ">pic.twitter.com/z8D1o25pDJ</a></p>
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/GopherFootball/status/771716250598711297">September 2, 2016</a>
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<h3>3 Stars</h3>
<h4>#1 Rodney Smith (RS. Sophomore - RB)</h4>
<p>Smith set career game highs in carries, rushing yards, and rushing touchdowns. He didn't have any massive plays but he consistency and ability to break tackles when the offensive line wasn't doing him too many favors gave him a Cobb-esque game. He averaged 5 yards per rush, which when combine with 25 carries, will definitely get the job done. A great job when called upon to be the main featured back with Shannon Brooks on the sideline with a foot injury.</p>
<h4>#18 Ryan Santoso (RS. Junior - P)</h4>
<p>I think the following tweet from Gopher football speaks to the job Santoso did on Thursday evening better than I could.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Average of 41.2 yds per punt? ☑️<br>4 inside the 20? ☑️<br>2 inside the 11? ☑️<a href="https://twitter.com/RyanSantoso90">@RyanSantoso90</a> had a good Thursday night. <a href="https://t.co/bme0cHA8q5">pic.twitter.com/bme0cHA8q5</a></p>
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/GopherFootball/status/772165275881840640">September 3, 2016</a>
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<h4>#92 Tai'yon Devers (Freshman - DE)</h4>
<p>Again, I will defer to Gopher football twitter to explain this inclusion in the 3 stars.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="und"><a href="https://t.co/Nddq61thFF">https://t.co/Nddq61thFF</a></p>
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/GopherFootball/status/772544014000136192">September 4, 2016</a>
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<h3 style="text-align: left;">4 Quarters</h3>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;">Click play on the seasoning opening highlights. ⬇️<a href="https://t.co/VwOhtGNzmy">https://t.co/VwOhtGNzmy</a></p>
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/GopherFootball/status/771687118049468416">September 2, 2016</a>
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<h4>1st Quarter</h4>
<p>The Gophers received the ball to start the 2016 season and the first drive looked much like some of the drives we saw last year. The fact that we couldn't convert a 3rd and 1 was very disheartening. Fortunately, the defense forced their own three-and-out on the ensuing possession. Unfortunately, the Gophers proceeded to go three-and-out again, this time hurt by the first of many, many unnecessary penalties that would plague Minnesota for the duration of the contest. The Gophers seemed poised to force another three-and-out when Cody Poock was called for the first of three targeting calls against Minnesota. He was ejected after review and the Beavers took advantage of a scrambling Gopher defense and scored a touchdown on the drive. The Gophers finally picked up a first down on their next drive but stalled again.</p>
<h4>2nd Quarter</h4>
<p>During Oregon States ensuing drive, Gopher Nation was introduced to true freshman defensive end Tai'yon Devers. After flying off the edge on a 3rd and 14, Devers hit Oregon State quarterback Darell Garretson and forced a fumble that was recovered by Steven Richardson. This would spark both the Minnesota sideline and the TCF Bank crowd out of their stupor. The Gophers proceeded to run on six straight plays en route to the end zone and the game was tied. As Oregon State began to drive again into Minnesota territory. SURPRISE! It's Devers again with a vicious hit on Garretson to force another(!) fumble, this time recovered by Kamal Martin. Again, the offense answered the call, with the help of a defensive pass interference penalty, of maintaining momentum and Rodney Smith found the endzone for his first touchdown of the season. The teams then exchanged three-and-outs before Oregon State pieced together another touchdown drive and the Gophers smartly utilized the clock to kick a field goal before time expired in the half. Half time score: 17-14 good guys.</p>
<h4>3rd Quarter</h4>
<p>The beginning of the third quarter was ugly for several reasons. One, the two teams combined for five possessions, five first downs, one ejection, and two turnovers. Unfortunately, the ejection and both turnovers were from Minnesota. Jonathan Celestin was thrown out for target (that's 2 Gopher LBs if you tracking at home), Tyler Moore snapped the ball over Mitch Leidner's head and out of the end zone for a safety, and Drew Wolitarsky muffed a punt, giving the Beavers prime field position that they quickly turned into a touchdown. In a manner of 12 minutes, the Gophers had gone from in control and feeling pretty good about themselves to trailing by six and the panic button nearly being mashed into the dashboard. As the 3rd quarter came to a close, Leidner scrambled 17 yards on a 3rd and 10 and hit TE Nate Wozniak to put them on the doorstep of the Oregon State endzone.</p>
<h4>4th Quarter</h4>
<p>Rodney Smith capped the drive for the Gophers with a spin move touchdown that contained no blocking from the offensive line and the Gophers retained the lead 24-23. The Gopher defense then went into shut down mode forcing a three-and-out and making a huge stop on 4th and 1 with the Beavers driving into Minnesota territory. Two big pass plays to Wolitarsky keyed the ensuing Gopher drive that resulted in Mitch's record rushing touchdown. Coach Claeys went for two (the right call mathematically speaking) and failed. Twitter blew up with faux rage. The Gophers D then put the nail in the coffin with another 4th down stop. Sadly, nothing is ever easy as a Minnesota fan and strange things continued on the possession that led to Leidner getting an unnecessary shot to the head. Cooler heads prevailed and the Gophers were victorious: 30-23.</p>
<h3>5 Thoughts</h3>
<h4>First Thought</h4>
<p>Besides the inability to get off the field on 3rd down and the inexplicable three (!!!) targeting penalties/ejections, I thought the defense was pretty good. They allowed 2.6 yards per rush and really tightened up in the second half in the face of adversity. It was nice to see a true freshman contribute so much to a pass rush that seems to have been non-existent for almost a decade now. Unfortunately, he was also one of the players ejected. I hope they have this issue ironed out in practice this week.</p>
<h4>Second Thought</h4>
<p>Rodney Smith really looked like David Cobb out there. He grinded out a heavy work load (25 carries) with a "workman-like" efficiency. He averaged 5 yards per rush, found the endzone twice, and made his offensive line look a lot better than they actually performed. I'm glad to see him capitalize on the opportunity to get the majority of carries in the wake of the Brooks injury.</p>
<h4>Third Thought</h4>
<p>Personally, I believe a lot of the mistakes that occurred during this game that allowed the score to be so close are both fixable and unlikely to occur again. Since the Gophers hadn't had a player ejected for target since the creation of the rule a couple years ago, I don't seem them losing three players in the same game again. I think Tyler Moore is an emotional guy and might have been a little too amped up for the first game of the season in a home environment. I don't think he'll continue to have those snapping issues. The silly things that extended a few OSU drives can be eliminated and could potentially have swung this game massively in the Gophers favor.</p>
<h4>Fourth Thought</h4>
<p>Mitch Leidner, while not brilliant, had no turnovers, made good reads 90% of the time on the option, and put together quality drives when all the chips are on the table. At the end of the 3rd and into the 4th quarter, when a throw needed to be made, he made it. While it would be nice to see him start out a game with better throws, hopefully he has shaken off the cobwebs and can improve on a mediocre 50% completion rate.</p>
<h4>Fifth Thought</h4>
<p>I fully believe going for two was the right call. You are up by seven no matter what and if OSU happens to drive down and score a touchdown, I find it highly unlikely they go for two in regulation. This means that you either have a chance to go up two scores, essentially icing the game, or you are up seven and worst case scenario (assuming Anderson plays it safe) OSU ties the game and sends it to overtime. Factoring in the likelihood the Beavers drive approximately 70 yards in 1:27 also makes going for two the smart choice.</p>
<p>The first game, as it seems to be for a lot of teams (ask Northwestern, Mississippi State, Tennessee, etc), was a bit of a rocky start but coming out with a win is always a plus. Let's hope the Gophers iron out their issues, stay healthy, and are better prepared to take care of FCS squad Indiana State in their upcoming matchup on Saturday at The Bank (11:00 AM, ESPNNews).</p>
https://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/6/12770406/minnesota-football-week-1-3-stars-4-quarters-5-thoughtsmowe00182016-09-04T08:50:44-05:002016-09-04T08:50:44-05:00Strolling Through Twitterland: OSU vs. Minnesota
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<p>Let's Not Rush to Judgement</p> <p class="MsoNormal">Well, that’s not exactly how we all envisioned the Oregon State game going was it? But at the end of the day, a win is a win is a win and sure beats the alternative. I’m not going to sit here and pretend like that was a well-played football game, because it wasn’t. The Gophers made a lot of self-inflicted mistakes that almost cost them the game. But at the end of the day, both the offense and defense made plays when they had to and the Gophers secured the victory.</p>
<p>Look, this was the first game and the entire industry knows the first game always tends to be wacky one way or another. Last season the Gophers gave TCU everything they could handle. So naturally, we as the fan base took it to mean the Gophers were going to have a great season. When it was all said and done, I wouldn’t necessarily call last season a great season by any stretch of the imagination. Just because the Oregon State game was a sloppily played game against an opponent we all thought the Gophers should stomp doesn’t necessarily mean this season is going to be another disappointing season either. Let’s let the season play out a little more before we start making full assumptions on how the season will fare. Remember, one game doesn't make a season.</p>
<p>Here are my thoughts and observations from the game:</p>
<p>Mitch Leidner – Mitch, Mitch, Mitch what to do with you? This game was a complete microcosm of your time as the Gophers starting quarterback. On one hand you didn’t have the best game passing wise, which only fuels the #BlameLeidner crowd. On the other hand, you were effective with your legs, rushing for two touchdowns and you found a way to win the game, which is all that truly matters. Big picture Mitch, you will need to be better going forward for the #SpecialSeason to happen, but you were the least of my worries in this game. That pump fake though (swoons).</p>
<p>Jay Johnson – Coming into the game the thing I was looking forward to most was seeing how Jay Johnson calls a game. Unfortunately I didn’t get to see how Jay Johnson calls a game since Matt Limegrover was apparently still making the play calls. I know the base offense will essentially be the same as it was, which I’m fine with, but that was not the offense we were told to expect. I really, really hope they held the game plan back because they were playing a 3 win team from last season and they thought they could win with holding back.</p>
<p>Sloppy Play – As I mentioned above, this game was close because of the Gophers self-inflicted wounds. The good thing is, the majority of those mistakes are easily correctable. It’s cliché but it’s 100% accurate, the most improvement you will see in the season is from game 1 to game 2. I personally don’t expect to see a lot of the mistakes we saw this game going forward. Does anyone truly believe Tyler Moore will snap the ball 30 yards back twice in one game again anytime soon?</p>
<p>Targeting Penalties – Not sure how to feel about these. I completely understand the higher-ups are trying to make the game safer. That is commendable and should be applauded. However, I am having a really difficult time with the term "targeting". To me "targeting" implies intent. Did all three intentionally go headhunting? I don’t believe so. Slap them with a 15 yard Unnecessary Roughness penalty or whatever you want to call it but to eject and suspend them is a little too much in my opinion. It’s a collision sport and sometimes the head is going to be hit unintentionally. In some cases you’re asking players to defy the laws of physics to avoid head contact. Good luck with that. I’m also struggling with the fact even the refs don’t seem to understand what is and what isn’t "targeting". There is zero consistency from one set of refs to the next on what is and what isn’t "targeting". There isn't even consistency within the same game as to what constitutes "targeting". Ultimately I feel they have made the rule too black and white in a sport that requires a lot of gray. All that said, the cynic in me says the only reason they are trying to make the game safer in the first place is because the lawyers told them they had to do something to make it appear as if they were making the game safer. But that's just the cynic in me.</p>
<p>2-Point Conversion – It was the right call. Claeys has been consistent in that approach. End of story.</p>
<p>Freshman – Tyler Johnson, you look the part and I can’t wait to watch your development this season. Tai’yon Devers, you have something that can’t be taught and that is speed from the edge.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">Enough about that, let's get to what really matters, our first Stroll Through the Twitterland of the season.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">These were the main hashtags for this week.</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">#GopherGameday</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">#SkiUMah</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">#OSUvsMinn</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">#Gophers</p>
<p class="MsoNormal">I'll just let this speak for itself...</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Not bad, <a href="https://twitter.com/GopherFootball">@GopherFootball</a>. Not bad at all. 〽️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GopherGameDay?src=hash">#GopherGameDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/8R18g2JOXB">pic.twitter.com/8R18g2JOXB</a></p>
— Minnesota W Hockey (@GopherWHockey) <a href="https://twitter.com/GopherWHockey/status/771516708624400384">September 2, 2016</a>
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<p class="MsoNormal">Truer words have never been spoken @matthewkrier</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Say what you will about US Bank Stadium, some days the game is just meant to be played outside. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GopherGameday?src=hash">#GopherGameday</a> <a href="https://t.co/oDnprJQac3">pic.twitter.com/oDnprJQac3</a></p>
— Matthew Krier (@matthewkrier) <a href="https://twitter.com/matthewkrier/status/771487485230657536">September 1, 2016</a>
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<p>#BlameLeidner all you want, he must be doing something right. Congrats on the record Mitch.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Last night, Mitch Leidner earned a spot in the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gophers?src=hash">#Gophers</a> record books. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SkiUMah?src=hash">#SkiUMah</a> <a href="https://t.co/8303c0QShP">pic.twitter.com/8303c0QShP</a></p>
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/GopherFootball/status/771764909432381441">September 2, 2016</a>
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<p class="MsoNormal">@hodgeUMah was prepared for Gameday!</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/GopherSports">@gophersports</a> wore the brightest, most beautiful gopher thing I own. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SkiUMah?src=hash">#SkiUMah</a> <a href="https://t.co/s01zgWD23M">pic.twitter.com/s01zgWD23M</a></p>
— WE DID IT!!!!!! (@HodgeUMah) <a href="https://twitter.com/HodgeUMah/status/771334488559411200">September 1, 2016</a>
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<p>Former Gopher offensive lineman @MrThorman speaks from experience.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Call me a homer, but most of the mistakes made tonight won't happen again this season. Young men overcame some shit and still won. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SkiUMah?src=hash">#SkiUMah</a></p>
— Mr.Thor〽️an (@MrThorman) <a href="https://twitter.com/MrThorman/status/771585217580544000">September 2, 2016</a>
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<p>Actually @ringering45 Tracy Claeys does hold a degree in mathematics but you know what they say about assuming.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I'm going to assume Claeys didn't major in math...or strategic planning. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OSUvsMINN?src=hash">#OSUvsMINN</a></p>
— Eric Ringering (@ringering45) <a href="https://twitter.com/ringering45/status/771562897625407489">September 2, 2016</a>
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<p>Wasn't a sellout but I thought the crowd was loud and fully engaged. It made for a great atmosphere.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">44,582 announced attendance at TCF for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OSUvsMINN?src=hash">#OSUvsMINN</a></p>
— Zach Wright (@ZachWrightCO) <a href="https://twitter.com/ZachWrightCO/status/771556388875046912">September 2, 2016</a>
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<p>I see what you did there @Pac12Network</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">We're one "Jobs" short of a tech empire in Minneapolis. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/OSUvsMINN?src=hash">#OSUvsMINN</a> <a href="https://t.co/WwP461bTbk">pic.twitter.com/WwP461bTbk</a></p>
— Pac-12 Network (@Pac12Network) <a href="https://twitter.com/Pac12Network/status/771555524168998912">September 2, 2016</a>
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<p>I tried not to laugh at this @RandBall but I couldn't help myself. Pretty funny.</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Target Field, Target Center, Targeting Stadium</p>
— RandBall (@RandBall) <a href="https://twitter.com/RandBall/status/771559322467700736">September 2, 2016</a>
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<p>I try and keep things fun and light during the Stroll but I wanted to take a moment to be serious. Most of you probably know by now Linebackers Coach Mike Sherels has been away from the team following multiple surgeries for an undisclosed medical issue. I don't have the words to describe how awesome it was to see @GobieMN tweet this out before the game. #SherelsStrong</p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Fantastic to see <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gophers?src=hash">#Gophers</a> Coach Sherels in attendance tonight.. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SherelsStrong?src=hash">#SherelsStrong</a> <a href="https://t.co/zxSvagXTqY">pic.twitter.com/zxSvagXTqY</a></p>
— Kyle Goblirsch (@GobieMN) <a href="https://twitter.com/GobieMN/status/771500774895546369">September 2, 2016</a>
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<p>There you have it, we survived Week 1 with the #SpecialSeason still in play. What were you favorite moments from the game? Are you concerned about the sloppy play or do you think they can correct the mistakes easily enough? What were your favorite tweets from the game?</p>
<p>#SkiUMah</p>
<p>Follow: @dvits14</p>
https://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/4/12774292/strolling-through-twitterland-week-1-osu-vs-minnesotadvits142016-09-03T16:31:00-05:002016-09-03T16:31:00-05:00Minnesota's nightmare season ends at 1-0.
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<p>"Real sorry about this," Tracy Claeys said to Oregon State head football game Gary Andersen after Thursday night's game.</p> <p>In an unprecedented move, head football coach Tracy Claeys has announced that the <a href="https://www.thedailygopher.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Minnesota Golden Gophers</a> football program will forfeit their remaining games this season in the aftermath of an uninspiring victory over the <a href="https://www.buildingthedam.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Oregon State Beavers</a> at home to open the season.</p>
<p>"I can't, in good conscience, allow this football team to take the field again after what happened on Thursday night," said Claeys in front of the few Twin Cities media members not at the airport trying to find hiding spots for the coordinated ambush of <span>Sam Bradford</span>. "There is a reason we schedule Power 5 non-conference opponents to open the season, and it ain't to improve the level of competition. That's for dang sure. It's for blowout wins that will allow us to rest our starters in the second half. We didn't do that, obviously."</p>
<p>Claeys was quick to point out that the Golden Gophers' performance on Thursday night was made worse when compared to their Big Ten brethren. "You don't see defending league champ Michigan State struggling against Furman. You don't see Northwestern losing to Western Michigan. You look around the conference, we're the only team that isn't a finished product in the first week of the season. I can't abide that."</p>
<p>When one media member dared to ask whether the team could improve over the course of the season and correct mistakes like bad snaps, false starts, and muffed punts, Claeys wouldn't hear it. "If that were possible, I doubt our fan base would be throwing in the towel already. What you see is what you get. End of story."</p>
<p>Most were baffled when Claeys opted to go for two when up by a touchdown against the Beavers late in the game, but he was quick to explain where his head was at for that particular decision. "The spread was about 13.5 in our favor, last I checked. We go up by nine at that point, then all we need is a field goal and a safety to beat that spread. It's simple logic. Let's be honest. If you can't beat the spread in your season opener, you might as well flush the rest of the season down the toilet."</p>
<p>Defensive coordinator Jay Sawvel said he agrees with Claeys' decision to forfeit the season, and accepted much of the blame after the defense was gashed on screen passes. "That screen pass, I tell you, I've never seen anything like it in all my years of coaching. I don't know where that came from. There's no stopping it," said Sawvel, still wearing the same clothes from Thursday's game after back-to-back sleepless nights. "I mean, what do you want me to do? Stop blitzing? Coach the players on how to better recognize a screen?" Sawvel had to be sedated when he started talking about "making adjustments."</p>
<p>New offensive coordinator Jay Johnson was not available to the media, but was spotted at the team's practice facility lecturing quarterback <span>Mitch Leidner</span> about his completion percentage. "Throwing an interception is not an incomplete pass when you complete it to the other team," Johnson could be heard saying to his senior quarterback.</p>
<p>It is unclear whether season ticket holders will be refunded for the remaining home games, but new athletic director Mark Coyle has a plan. "Fans deserve better than the product we put on the field Thursday night. So each Saturday this fall, rather than a home football game, I will be performing a one-man rendition of 'Death of a Salesman' on the field at TCF Bank Stadium. I hope fans will come out and watch."</p>
<p>Fans have already taken to Twitter to voice their concerns as to whether or not Coyle is right choice for the lead role in "Death of a Salesman."</p>
<p><i>This article is satire. If you made it this far and thought otherwise, may God have mercy on your soul. Thanks for reading.</i></p>
https://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/3/12786654/minnesota-football-gophers-forfeit-season-after-disappointing-opener-satireBlake Ruane2016-09-02T09:47:55-05:002016-09-02T09:47:55-05:00Golden Nugz on the Morning After a Gopher Win
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<p>How about a few links from around the world as the Gophers came away with a win in their season opener.</p>
<p>I'll start with our own recaps.</p>
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" href="http://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/1/12751228/minnesota-vs-oregon-state-recap-final-score-reaction">Post Game Initial Thoughts</a></li>
<li><a target="_blank" href="http://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/1/12762786/minnesota-football-gophers-open-season-with-30-23-win-over-oregon-state">Post Game Recap</a></li>
<li> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/2/12765598/minnesota-football-oregon-state-postgame-breakdown-good-bad-ugly">The Good, The Bad, The Ugly</a><br> </li>
</ul>
<p>And on to recaps from everywhere else...</p>
<ul>
<li><a target="_blank" href="http://www.gophersports.com/sports/m-footbl/recaps/090116aaa.html">Gopher Sports Recap</a></li>
<li>Oregon Live looks at the Beavers and how they <a target="_blank" href="http://www.oregonlive.com/sports/oregonian/john_canzano/index.ssf/2016/09/canzano_oregon_state_football_1.html#incart_2box">aren't ready to be a team that finds a way to win</a> on the road.</li>
<li> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.buildingthedam.com/2016/9/1/12761374/game-1-minnesota-vs-oregon-state-recap">Our friends at Building the Damn</a> recapped the game.</li>
<li> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.espn.com/college-football/recap?gameId=400869092">ESPN Recap</a>. "If the Gophers are truly going to contend in the wide-open Big Ten West, they will have to be much more disciplined and precise going forward. They had eight penalties for 70 yards. Center Tyler Moore snapped the ball over Leidner's head twice, one resulting in a safety, and Leidner missed several open receivers down the field, an underwhelming performance all around."</li>
</ul>
<h4>VIDEOS</h4>
<p>Gopher Sports highlights of the game...</p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/1YsnfzMbft0" width="560" frameborder="0" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p>Coach Claeys post game press conference...</p>
<p><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_kcRJ1IIu7g" width="560" frameborder="0" height="315"></iframe></p>
<p>And I'll leave you with this...</p>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Don't know about you, but my body hurts after watching this Tai'yon Devers hit. <a href="https://t.co/IVzmsMmEOs">https://t.co/IVzmsMmEOs</a></p>
— Brent Yarina (@BTNBrentYarina) <a href="https://twitter.com/BTNBrentYarina/status/771525769054912513">September 2, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
<p>
<script src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</p>
https://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/2/12769430/minnesota-football-golden-nugz-gophers-beat-Oregon-state-win-season-openerGopherNation2016-09-02T07:00:11-05:002016-09-02T07:00:11-05:00Minnesota vs Oregon State: Good, Bad, and Ugly
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/LO3RrIAGjdn0YcqeE7xRYkl_AG0=/0x112:3000x2112/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50628783/GettyImages-598581878.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Adam Bettcher/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Freshman Tai'yon Devers introducing himself -- twice -- to Oregon State quarterback Darell Garretson was a bright spot in an ugly win.</p> <p>Your <a href="https://www.thedailygopher.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Minnesota Golden Gophers</a> are 1-0 to start their #SpecialSeason after edging out the <a href="https://www.buildingthedam.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Oregon State Beavers</a> 30-23 last night in the season opener at TCF Bank Stadium. It was an ugly win to the say least, but there was also good and bad mixed in there, as well. Let's talk about it.</p>
<h4>The Good</h4>
<p><b><span>Rodney Smith</span></b>. With Shannon Brooks sidelined, <span>Smith</span> was the feature back for the Gophers, and he did not disappoint. He rushed for 125 yards on 25 carries and scored two touchdowns, equaling his total from last season. We didn't see much of Kobe McCrary at all, and that was likely because Smith was doing his thing.</p>
<p><b><span>Tai'yon Devers</span></b>. What a debut for a freshman defensive end who had zero recruiting buzz. Two strip sacks -- with both fumbles recovered by the Gophers and converted into touchdowns -- in his first game as a Gopher is impressive. This team is in desperate need of a strong pass rush, and Devers has the makings of a stud.</p>
<p><b><span>Ryan Santoso</span></b>. Peter who? The former starting kicker was terrific punting the ball, pinning four of his six punts inside the 20-yard line, including one at the goal line. <span>Emmit Carpenter</span> also performed well at kicker, with three extra points and a clutch 45-yard field goal to give the Gophers the lead going into halftime.</p>
<p><b>The linebacker position</b>. This was touted as the deepest position on the defense before the start of the season, and boy was that ever put to the test last night. The Gophers frequently employed the 4-2-5 with <span>Jack Lynn</span> and <span>Julian Huff</span> to match up against the Beavers' spread offense, which helped compensate for the fact that the linebacker corps was without two starters and their second string middle linebacker.</p>
<p><b><span>Mitch Leidner</span> running the ball</b>. The moose was loose at TCF Bank Stadium last night, as Leidner rushed for 76 yards on 13 carries and scored two touchdowns -- breaking Rickey Foggie's career quarterback rushing touchdown record in the process. And can we talk about that pump fake in the red zone to neutralize an Oregon State defensive back and run for the first down? Beautiful.</p>
<h4><b>The Bad</b></h4>
<p><b><span>Mitch Leidner</span> passing the ball</b>. In general, the Gophers struggled in the passing game and never quite found their rhythm. Leidner looked poised in the pocket and avoided turning the ball over, but he had his fair share of errant passes and poor decisions. He was without last season's go-to target, tight end <span>Brandon Lingen</span>, but <span>Nate Wozniak</span> and freshman receiver <span>Tyler Johnson</span> both had big catches throughout the game.</p>
<p><b>Penalties</b>. The Gophers amassed eight penalties for a total of 70 yards. The pre-snap penalties were especially disappointing. That needs to be cleaned up. We'll get to the targeting penalties in a minute.</p>
<p><b>The secondary</b>. Honestly, the secondary was alternately good, bad, and ugly at times, and I think most of us expected as much. Seniors Damarius Travis and <span>Jalen Myrick</span> are solid, but the youth and inexperience filling out the rest of the defensive backfield will have to suffer through growing pains over the next few weeks. Eight pass break-ups last night is good, but three touchdowns through the air is not.</p>
<p><b>Punt returns</b>. Can we not? One half season of <span>Craig James</span> last season was enough nightmare fodder for Gopher fans. We don't need you adding to it, Drew Wolitarsky. His muffed punt in the second half led to an Oregon State touchdown and cost the Gophers the lead. Please don't do that again.</p>
<h4><b>The Ugly</b></h4>
<p><b>Targeting</b>. Last night's Pac-12 officiating crew was a dumpster fire. I try to avoid talking too much about the officiating, but good grief. Not one, not two, but THREE targeting penalties against the Gophers sent <span>Cody Poock</span>, <span>Jonathan Celestin</span>, and Tai'yon Devers to the showers early. <span>Celestin</span> and Devers will also have to miss the first half against Indiana State next week as a result. What made it worse was that the refs swallowed their whistles later when a Beaver defender delivered a hit on Leidner that mirrored the Celestin hit that previously merited an ejection, and had to be coaxed into calling a personal foul committed against Leidner at the end of the game. With that said, Gopher defenders need to avoid anything even resembling helmet-to-helmet contact.</p>
<p><b>Botching the shotgun snap</b>. Once is bad enough. But twice? Unacceptable. Bad shotgun snaps from center <span>Tyler Moore</span> that went over the head of Leidner effectively killed two offensive drives, with one costing the team 23 yards on first down and the other gave the Beavers a safety. That can't happen.</p>
<p><b>Defending the screen pass</b>. Beavers running back <span>Ryan Nall</span> amassed 80 receiving yards on eight receptions, in large part from the screen pass. Thankfully, the Gopher defense figured out how to defend it before the Beavers' final drive of the game.</p>
<p>Anything I missed? That's what the comments are for. Unless you're going to pull a Glen Mason and wag your finger at Tracy Claeys for going for two after that last touchdown -- which would have put the game out of reach for Oregon State had the Gophers converted. He did the same thing in the same situation against Illinois last year and no one said boo about it because it worked that time. The Gophers have more pressing concerns.</p>
https://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/2/12765598/minnesota-football-oregon-state-postgame-breakdown-good-bad-uglyBlake Ruane2016-09-01T10:12:03-05:002016-09-01T10:12:03-05:00Previewing Minnesota vs. Oregon State
<figure>
<img alt="Stanford v Oregon State" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/10E-QNB_smvZSRyEvxC2Khix5_s=/0x0:3389x2259/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50607133/490061722.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Steve Dykes/Getty Images</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>GOPHER FOOTBALL IS FINALLY HERE!</p> <h4 id="bn80jE">OPENING THOUGHTS</h4>
<p id="rK8ZlT">The beginning of the college football season (love you Cal/Hawaii, but your game was just weird and I’m not sure it counts) is a truly magical time for me. Even more so when Minnesota’s first game of the season is one I can watch in person. I love the college football season and I love going to Gopher games. Getting the chance to enjoy both at the same time is...well...</p>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/upFqMpfuF3e3aWyqHSaLug_33FM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7029565/GIF_Inspector%20Gadger%20Dancing.gif">
</figure>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/jlctMZvDHdN4jg2Glh2pbvRU0d4=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7029595/GIF_Excited%20Dancing.gif">
</figure>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/wHURMPpoxwuoy_arGGPiU6rUAdk=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7029609/GIF_Family%20Guy%20Dancing.gif">
</figure>
<p id="aqOhz3">They say a picture is worth a thousand words so these GIFs must be worth a million. I think they are just repeating “THIS IS BEST!” over and over. Because that’s how I feel about the college season kicking off with me in TCF Bank Stadium.</p>
<h4 id="n83k5z">GNOME #TAKES</h4>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt="Gopher Gnome" data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fDaQuc_bSFWaGJXzCpidLJ163U8=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/assets/1803723/gnome.jpg">
</figure>
<p id="r80GOd">The first of this season’s GNOME #TAKES is brought to you by the OGG (Original Gopher Gnome). He told me that he had carefully considered all of the posts TDG put up this week. He said that the <a href="http://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/8/30/12666208/minnesota-football-oregon-state-preview-q-a-building-the-dam">Q&A with Building the Dam</a> was insightful, the historical precedent for a Minnesota win <a href="http://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/1/12713902/minnesota-football-gophers-beat-beavers-1954-tbt">in today’s #TBT</a> was compelling, and that zipsofakron was spot on in <a href="http://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/1/12723146/overly-optimistic-prediction-of-the-week-oregon-state">his overly optimistic analysis</a> of tonight’s game.</p>
<p id="mqsexh">In the end, OGG thinks Oregon State’s football team is like the GIF below. Hungry with big teeth but ultimately too cute to be feared. </p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_EnffvtV7bledEYrb9Rk-6RlUPM=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7029685/GIF_Beaver%20Eating.gif">
</figure>
<h4 id="PD2fip">WHEN/WHERE</h4>
<p id="paragraph8"><strong>Date: </strong>Thursday, September 1st</p>
<p id="paragraph9"><strong>Kickoff Time: </strong>8pm CT</p>
<p id="jUexqe"><strong>Where:</strong> TCF Bank Stadium, Minneapolis, MN</p>
<h4 id="58OAMo">WATCH/LISTEN</h4>
<p id="paragraph11"><strong>TV:</strong> Big Ten Network</p>
<p id="paragraph12"><strong>Streaming Video:</strong> <a href="http://www.btn2go.com/">BTN2Go </a>(or the BTN2Go app for your mobile device)</p>
<p id="paragraph13"><strong>Radio:</strong> KOOL 108 (107.9 in the Twin Cities) and the Gopher Radio Network (<strong><a href="http://sportsaffiliates.learfieldsports.com/affiliates/minnesota1">Radio Affiliates</a></strong>).</p>
<p id="paragraph14"><strong>Streaming Audio: </strong>Locate KFAN on <strong><a href="http://www.iheart.com/live/kool-108-1217/">IHeartRadio</a></strong><a href="http://www.iheart.com/live/kool-108-1217/"> </a>(or the IHeartRadio app for your mobile device)</p>
<p id="paragraph15"><strong>Satellite Radio:</strong> SiriusXM 85; Sirius 85; XM 85</p>
<h4 id="XryaRC">ODDS</h4>
<p id="paragraph16"><strong>Spread: </strong>Minnesota by 12.5 to 13 (<a href="http://www.oddsshark.com/ncaaf/oregon-state-minnesota-odds-september-1-2016-729526">depending on the site</a>)</p>
<p id="paragraph17"><strong>O/U:</strong> 55.5-56</p>
<p id="HDRKTc"><strong>Bill C:</strong></p>
<div id="SRcP7c"><table cellspacing="2" cellpadding="2" border="0">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><b>Spread (Home)</b></td>
<td><b>S&P+ Projection</b></td>
<td><b>Margin</b></td>
<td><b>Win Prob.</b></td>
<td><b>S&P+ Pick (ATS)</b></td>
<td><b>F/+ Projection</b></td>
<td><b>F/+ Pick (ATS)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>-13</td>
<td>Minnesota (36.9-20.8)</td>
<td>16.1</td>
<td>82.40%</td>
<td>Minnesota</td>
<td>Minnesota by 14.7</td>
<td>Minnesota</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div>
<p id="9hFkkn">Advanced stats like Minnesota in this one. In fact, they see Minnesota winning pretty handily in the end. Not a bad place to start the year.</p>
<h4 id="NUgYeb">WEATHER FORECAST</h4>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/tZb5OKveu5xd6SuLPTvxtdDNy78=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7029809/GIF_Sunshine.gif">
</figure>
<p id="wH0INZ">The weather is going to be perfect today and tonight. No warmer than the mid-70’s, sunny, and the humidity will drop as the day goes on. By far the best weather anyone can remember for a home opener at TCF.</p>
<h4 id="mWoWzL">THE ENEMY</h4>
<p id="paragraph31"><strong>Where Are They From?</strong> Corvallis, Oregon</p>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/zXjOIst8vF27Xed1ImGuzvD212c=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7029861/corvallis-oregon-scenic.jpg">
</figure>
<p id="paragraph36"><strong>All Time Series:</strong> MN leads the series 2-1.</p>
<p id="paragraph37"><strong>Last Game:</strong> 1981, when Smokin’ Joe Salem’s Gophers won 42-12.</p>
<p id="vdbffU"><strong>SB Nation Blog:</strong> <a href="http://www.buildingthedam.com/">Building The Dam</a></p>
<p id="IA6k6b"><strong>Last Season: </strong>2-10 (0-8 Pac-12)</p>
<p id="kuvnU7"><strong>Head Coach: </strong><a href="http://www.thedailygopher.com/2014/11/25/7279093/minnesota-wisconsin-paul-bunyan-axe-2104-end-zone-fail">The man with no respect for tradition.</a></p>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/j32Q-OayaWCs3SRFSlSA_Zk28SQ=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7029891/00003501772672.jpg">
</figure>
<h4 id="s0JkkC">Keys to the Game:</h4>
<p id="paragraph46">- <strong>Establish a run game.</strong> It’s time for Bart Miller’s nastier offensive line to show off. Run the ball over, around, and through Oregon State. This is still Minnesota’s identity and while Oregon State is a P5 team they are not a good P5 team. In other words, this is something the Gophers shouldn’t struggle mightily at.</p>
<p id="paragraph47">- <strong>Stay healthy.</strong> Depth is still an issue in a couple key spots. Let’s not test that.</p>
<p id="paragraph48">- <strong>Don’t give up big plays.</strong> While this game likely won’t be a sellout, the atmosphere should still be strong. One easy way to get the crowd out of the game quick is to let the Beavers connect for big offensive plays. Don’t do it.</p>
<h4 id="Q3YWRI">How Afraid Am I?</h4>
<p id="paragraph49">On a scale of 1 to 5 "Brewsters on his face" (1 being not a afraid, 5 being very afraid)?</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/VC6ViNs3YKVpNnb0UmLb1ZChysU=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7029967/1%20Tim%20Brewster%20State%20Fair.png">
</figure>
<p id="s3njfa">I am only 1 Tim Brewster going down the Giant Slide at the State Fair afraid of Oregon State. </p>
<h4 id="8hrJHb">Completely Worthless Prediction:</h4>
<p id="xgMQvi">I’m still not sold that Minnesota is at the point where they blow teams out, but I want a big win and so I’m going to predict a big win.</p>
<p id="wGO336"><strong>Minnesota 31, Oregon State 13</strong></p>
<p id="kDIspW"></p>
https://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/1/12749108/minnesota-oregon-state-preview-schedule-streaming-oddsGoAUpher2016-09-01T08:00:07-05:002016-09-01T08:00:07-05:00Minnesota Football: Gophers Beat Beavers 1954 #TBT
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/U2PAdDElnH1BqAvN65KVtDjVNhQ=/50x28:469x307/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50580117/osu_201.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Gophers vs OSU 1954</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>In Murray Warmath’s first year as head coach Minnesota whooped Oregon State 44-6</p> <p id="5M2oqC">On November 6, 1954 the Gophers played a late season non conference home game against Oregon St. Murray Warmath had Minnesota playing well ranked 14 in the country when the Beavers came to town. Here is the game synopsis from the school yearbook.</p>
<aside id="zNmQPU"><q>The Gophers conveniently sandwiched Oregon State, a weak sister, between the Michigan State and Iowa “toughies.” The non-conference Beavers were probably wishing that they had stayed at home before Minnesota’s 44 to 6 romp was over. The Gophers scored first before four minutes of the first quarter had elapsed and from that point on the game’s outcome was never in doubt. <span></span>Shorty Cochran had his best scoring day against State. He crossed the double stripes three times, twice after catching passes of 34 and 22 yards, and once on a 29-yard run. Bob McNamara played another outstanding game, running for two touchdowns and 161 yards, which was almost half of the team’s net yardage. </q></aside><p id="WFD6gF">Perhaps the most interesting moment of the game was whatever the band decided to do for halftime which they claimed was a tribute to fathers...</p>
<figure class="e-image">
<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/Dnw3v5My5-Pnl9Ao-tewllsfNM0=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7018019/halftime%20.jpg">
<cite>U of M</cite>
<figcaption>Halftime vs OSU</figcaption>
</figure>
<p id="LGp5Yy">Also this is terrifying. Suffering a broken nose a Gopher player played with a metal facemask. Never heard of metal mask before... </p>
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<img alt=" " data-mask-text="false" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/rWgepBoEaG8agmPq6e98M1eAWac=/400x0/filters:no_upscale()/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/7018023/osu%202.jpg">
<cite>U of M</cite>
<figcaption>Dick Kubes looking straight up evil with that metal mask.</figcaption>
</figure>
https://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/1/12713902/minnesota-football-gophers-beat-beavers-1954-tbtHipsterGopher2016-09-01T06:00:07-05:002016-09-01T06:00:07-05:00Overly Optimistic Prediction of the Week: Oregon State
<figure>
<img alt="Leidner and the Gophers welcome Oregon State for a winnable opener." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/nIoDKetwDiH_cRA8kBHGfWCPnco=/0x0:3000x2000/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/50585939/usa-today-9022271.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Leidner and the Gophers welcome Oregon State for a winnable opener. | Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Facing Oregon State is a great way to start the season</p> <p>It's always nice to start the season off with a W, ya know? And it's even more fun to start off the season with a win under the lights against a real life P5 opponent that's not from Texas. In fact, you might say Thursday's opponent is the perfect combination of an opening night foe -- they have name recognition; they're beatable; their defense is pretty bad; they don't have a quarterback who has a future in the NFL.</p>
<p>Helping the Gophers christen the 2016 season will be the T.J. Houshmandzadeh-less Oregon State Beavers and their still-rebuilding program. A walk in the park? Probably. I mean, if we're talking about the Pac-12 going back to just being the Pac-10 like the good ol' days, Oregon State is probably one of the two teams that gets the axe.</p>
<p>But yes, there's reason to be optimistic about the first game going to the Gophers, for a few reasons:</p>
<p> </p>
<ul>
<li><span>We have a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/5/5/11597622/2017-nfl-mock-draft-mitch-leidner-todd-mcshay">projected first-round pick</a> lining up under center. NFL-quality talent slinging the rock for the Maroon and Gold. That's a great start.</span></li>
<li><span>We have so much kicking depth that we decided to <a target="_blank" href="http://www.startribune.com/santoso-gets-a-kick-out-of-just-being-gophers-punter/389682331/">move a guy who can kick 70-yard field goals to punter</a> just because. </span></li>
<li><span>The Beavs' 2015 quarterback, Seth Collins, was so ineffective they <a target="_blank" href="http://www.oregonlive.com/beavers/index.ssf/2016/04/seth_collins_to_return_to_oreg.html">moved him to wide receiver</a>. So, the new guy gets to have his first game on the road with a subpar offense in Gopher country. Ideal? Not for Oregon State.</span></li>
<li><span>OSU's defense ranked near the bottom in basically every category last season and haven't changed schemes.</span></li>
</ul>
<p>And that's just the in-game stuff. Do we need to be reminded that this is a twilight contest in front of a jacked-up crowd ready to realize the dream of finally winning the B1G West and jumping on that long-awaited charter flight to California on New Year's Day? And it's going to be, like, 70 degrees at kickoff. With plenty of time for beer before gametime. We all know Minnesota basically never loses under the lights in September at home.</p>
<p>So soak it up because it's gonna be a great night to head to the stadium, enjoy the sunset, see some touchdowns and get a glimpse of what figures to be an exciting team for 2016.</p>
<p><b>Prediction: </b>Gophers win 35-13. Rodney runs in two TDs en route to a 135-yard night, the defense brings back a pick-six; and Mitch Leidner and Drew Wolitarsky connect on a sexy wheel route and a 35-yard crossing route for multiple touchdowns.</p>
<p>Get ready.</p>
https://www.thedailygopher.com/2016/9/1/12723146/overly-optimistic-prediction-of-the-week-oregon-statezipsofakron