Minnesota has two games left before the conference schedule begins.
Published: 2011-12-14
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
Fresh off a four-game homestand, Minnesota’s women’s basketball team will take its show on the road to face the Denver Pioneers on Wednesday.
The Gophers have won three games in a row behind solid guard play from Kiara Buford and Rachel Banham to improve their record to 7-5.
Denver has not lost a game at home this season and has a 7-3 record overall. The Pioneers are led by Kaetlyn Murdoch, who is averaging 16.5 points per game and most recently put up 21 points in a win against Oregon.
“They’ve got some really good three-point shooters and a really good post player that is the focal point of that team (Murdoch), and they’re playing at home,” head coach Pam Borton said. “So we have to use this to our advantage and learn to win on the road.”
The Gophers will face New Jersey Tech on Dec. 23 and then have a week off before playing at Purdue to begin the Big Ten season.
Minnesota had a 4-12 record in the Big Ten last season and began conference play with seven straight losses.
“Each and every game that we’ve played has gotten us ready for some of the things we’re going to see in the Big Ten” Borton said. “We’ve played six BCS teams in our schedule, so we’ve already played somewhat of a Big Ten schedule.”
Borton said Banham is a key to the team’s ability to adjust to conference play. Banham has averaged 33 minutes and 13 points through 12 games. She was named Big Ten Freshman of the Week last week.
“I don’t know exactly what to expect,” Banham said of the conference schedule. “I watched [Big Ten opponents] when I was in high school. I’m excited to play the girls I’ve seen on TV.”
Minnesota’s post players have improved as the season has progressed. Katie Loberg is averaging 10.6 points and 7.4 rebounds, and Kionna Kellogg recorded her first double-double of the season in Sunday’s victory against Alcorn State.
“We always expect more of ourselves,” Kellogg said. “It’s always about improving, but it’s nice to have some success.”
The Gophers will only play one game over the next two weeks before Big Ten play begins.
Buford has been a steady force for the Gophers this season, leading the team in scoring, assists and steals. The senior guard was named tournament MVP this past weekend in the Gophers two victories and scored a game-high 25 points on 11-for-14 shooting against Harvard.
“I feel very confident with where we are,” Buford said. “Our shooting percentage is up. We’re getting back to playing team defense. The Big Ten is very competitive. I think we have a good opportunity in front of us.”
Buford said the Gophers are more versatile this season with a scoring point guard like Banham and more experienced in the post, which should lead to more success in the conference.
Borton said that the difference going into the Big Ten schedule this season is having a point guard in Banham.
“We lost a lot of really close games last year by one or two possessions,” Borton said. “In that situation you need to have the ball in the hands of somebody that wants to make plays. We have more talent on our team this year.”
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/14/gophers-prepare-denver-then-big-ten-schedule
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Minnesota defeats Harvard and Alcorn State to win Best Buy Classic
The Gophers women’s basketball team defeated Harvard and Alcorn State over the weekend.
Published: 2011-12-12
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team defeated Harvard and Alcorn State over the weekend to win the Best Buy Classic and improve to 7-5 on the season.
Minnesota’s shooting percentage has been a weak point most of the season, but it improved in both games of the tournament. The Gophers shot 48 percent for the weekend.
“We took great shots,” Borton said. “We’re heading in the right direction. Once we get everybody on the same page playing well on the same night, we’re going to be dangerous.”
Kiara Buford starred on Saturday in a 79-53 win against Harvard, netting 25 points on 11-for-14 shooting. She continued her hot streak on Sunday in a 75-46 win against Alcorn State.
Buford played more aggressively against Alcorn State, driving the ball inside and using her athleticism and strength for 11 points on only 4-for-7 shooting. She played limited minutes Sunday and let her teammates do more damage.
Buford was named MVP of the tournament.
“It feels great [to be MVP]” Buford said. “A lot of basketball is about the mindset. I try to feed the mindset to the team that we’re going to win or dominate on the boards, whatever it may be that game and in the meantime still trying to score.”
Minnesota out-rebounded Alcorn State 54-27, a game after the Gophers were out-rebounded 44-33 in their win against Harvard.
Alcorn State seemed to lack basic skills on the offensive end. The guards had difficulty dribbling and the Lady Braves as a whole seemed confused on the court.
Alcorn State’s best statistical player is 5-foot-1-inch guard Kiara Ruffin. The Gophers held Ruffin to seven points on 3-for-11 shooting.
Minnesota jumped out to a 10-0 lead to start the game and never looked back.
Freshman Rachel Banham scored 13 points Saturday and shared a team-high 16 points Sunday despite playing fewer minutes.
Katie Loberg continued her strong play in the post Saturday, scoring 16 points. She followed that up with a 6-point, 9-rebound performance in limited minutes Sunday.
Kionna Kellogg had a career best 16 points and 12 rebounds Sunday against Alcorn State’s small Interior defenders.
The Gophers’ bench played a lot of minutes in the win to give the starters a rest.
Minnesota turned the ball over only six times on Saturday, but 20 times Sunday, including 10 turnovers from guard Leah Cotton. The team also committed just 23 fouls in the two wins. Turnovers and foul control are two areas Borton has said there is room for improvement.
“We’re excited to top off the weekend with a win and a championship and I hope there are more championships down the road,” Borton said. “Each and every team we’ve played in the non-conference plays a completely different style, so it’ll get us ready for the Big Ten.”
The Gophers will play Denver and New Jersey Tech before starting the Big Ten schedule Dec. 30 against Purdue.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/12/minnesota-defeats-harvard-and-alcorn-state-win-best-buy-classic
Published: 2011-12-12
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team defeated Harvard and Alcorn State over the weekend to win the Best Buy Classic and improve to 7-5 on the season.
Minnesota’s shooting percentage has been a weak point most of the season, but it improved in both games of the tournament. The Gophers shot 48 percent for the weekend.
“We took great shots,” Borton said. “We’re heading in the right direction. Once we get everybody on the same page playing well on the same night, we’re going to be dangerous.”
Kiara Buford starred on Saturday in a 79-53 win against Harvard, netting 25 points on 11-for-14 shooting. She continued her hot streak on Sunday in a 75-46 win against Alcorn State.
Buford played more aggressively against Alcorn State, driving the ball inside and using her athleticism and strength for 11 points on only 4-for-7 shooting. She played limited minutes Sunday and let her teammates do more damage.
Buford was named MVP of the tournament.
“It feels great [to be MVP]” Buford said. “A lot of basketball is about the mindset. I try to feed the mindset to the team that we’re going to win or dominate on the boards, whatever it may be that game and in the meantime still trying to score.”
Minnesota out-rebounded Alcorn State 54-27, a game after the Gophers were out-rebounded 44-33 in their win against Harvard.
Alcorn State seemed to lack basic skills on the offensive end. The guards had difficulty dribbling and the Lady Braves as a whole seemed confused on the court.
Alcorn State’s best statistical player is 5-foot-1-inch guard Kiara Ruffin. The Gophers held Ruffin to seven points on 3-for-11 shooting.
Minnesota jumped out to a 10-0 lead to start the game and never looked back.
Freshman Rachel Banham scored 13 points Saturday and shared a team-high 16 points Sunday despite playing fewer minutes.
Katie Loberg continued her strong play in the post Saturday, scoring 16 points. She followed that up with a 6-point, 9-rebound performance in limited minutes Sunday.
Kionna Kellogg had a career best 16 points and 12 rebounds Sunday against Alcorn State’s small Interior defenders.
The Gophers’ bench played a lot of minutes in the win to give the starters a rest.
Minnesota turned the ball over only six times on Saturday, but 20 times Sunday, including 10 turnovers from guard Leah Cotton. The team also committed just 23 fouls in the two wins. Turnovers and foul control are two areas Borton has said there is room for improvement.
“We’re excited to top off the weekend with a win and a championship and I hope there are more championships down the road,” Borton said. “Each and every team we’ve played in the non-conference plays a completely different style, so it’ll get us ready for the Big Ten.”
The Gophers will play Denver and New Jersey Tech before starting the Big Ten schedule Dec. 30 against Purdue.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/12/minnesota-defeats-harvard-and-alcorn-state-win-best-buy-classic
Women’s basketball defeats Harvard with ease
Kiara Buford dominated the Crimson with a 25-point game.
Published: 2011-12-10
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota defeated Harvard 79-53 behind an impressive performance from senior guard Kiara Buford.
Buford drove to the rim at will and shot the lights out from outside for 25 points. She hit 11-of-14 shots including three three-pointers.
“We’ve been shooting a lot more the last couple weeks. I think that it’s starting to kick in,” Buford said. “I’m more consistent and more confident in my shot.”
The 25 points were two shy of her career high 27. Buford couldn’t be stopped all afternoon. She added six assists, three blocks and two steals.
The Gophers improved their shooting to 53 percent in the game.
“We haven’t shot the ball real well all year, but we’ve been on the road a lot,” head coach Pam Borton said. “We’ve got three or four people on our team that are as good of shooters that we’ve had in our program in a long time and it was just a matter of time before they start making shots.”
Harvard hung close most of the game, and even took a brief lead midway through the first half. It was able to stay close due to the rebounding edge of 44-33.
Minnesota’s Katie Loberg is taller than any player on the Crimson roster, and she was able to exploit that for points down low. She finished with 16 points and five rebounds. She had an open floor after a steal and looked like she was tempted to go for the slam dunk. Loberg said she didn’t think about it until after the play.
The Gophers pulled away late in the second half and cruised to the victory in the final minutes.
Point guard Rachel Banham began to contribute late in the game. Banham was not the focal point of the offense for the first time this season. She only took ten shots from the floor, contributing 13 points.
Leah Cotton was inserted into the starting lineup earlier this week and had a good game against Air Force, but she regressed this weekend. She appeared anxious with the basketball, putting up quick shots when she got her hands on the ball. She finished the day shooting 1-for-10 for six points.
Minnesota switched in and out of a two-three zone defense with little effect. Harvard was able to stay close no matter the defensive scheme Borton put into place.
The Gophers held on to the ball better than they have all year. They only turned the ball over six times in the game.
“We had great ball control and I thought we made great decisions,” Borton said. “[It was] nice to see that number at 17 assists and six turnovers. It gives you more possessions in the game.”
Minnesota will take on Alcorn State on Sunday at Williams Arena to wrap up the Best Buy Classic at 2:00 p.m.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/10/women’s-basketball-defeats-harvard-ease
Published: 2011-12-10
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota defeated Harvard 79-53 behind an impressive performance from senior guard Kiara Buford.
Buford drove to the rim at will and shot the lights out from outside for 25 points. She hit 11-of-14 shots including three three-pointers.
“We’ve been shooting a lot more the last couple weeks. I think that it’s starting to kick in,” Buford said. “I’m more consistent and more confident in my shot.”
The 25 points were two shy of her career high 27. Buford couldn’t be stopped all afternoon. She added six assists, three blocks and two steals.
The Gophers improved their shooting to 53 percent in the game.
“We haven’t shot the ball real well all year, but we’ve been on the road a lot,” head coach Pam Borton said. “We’ve got three or four people on our team that are as good of shooters that we’ve had in our program in a long time and it was just a matter of time before they start making shots.”
Harvard hung close most of the game, and even took a brief lead midway through the first half. It was able to stay close due to the rebounding edge of 44-33.
Minnesota’s Katie Loberg is taller than any player on the Crimson roster, and she was able to exploit that for points down low. She finished with 16 points and five rebounds. She had an open floor after a steal and looked like she was tempted to go for the slam dunk. Loberg said she didn’t think about it until after the play.
The Gophers pulled away late in the second half and cruised to the victory in the final minutes.
Point guard Rachel Banham began to contribute late in the game. Banham was not the focal point of the offense for the first time this season. She only took ten shots from the floor, contributing 13 points.
Leah Cotton was inserted into the starting lineup earlier this week and had a good game against Air Force, but she regressed this weekend. She appeared anxious with the basketball, putting up quick shots when she got her hands on the ball. She finished the day shooting 1-for-10 for six points.
Minnesota switched in and out of a two-three zone defense with little effect. Harvard was able to stay close no matter the defensive scheme Borton put into place.
The Gophers held on to the ball better than they have all year. They only turned the ball over six times in the game.
“We had great ball control and I thought we made great decisions,” Borton said. “[It was] nice to see that number at 17 assists and six turnovers. It gives you more possessions in the game.”
Minnesota will take on Alcorn State on Sunday at Williams Arena to wrap up the Best Buy Classic at 2:00 p.m.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/10/women’s-basketball-defeats-harvard-ease
Gophers dominate Air Force
Minnesota beat the Falcons 81-46.
Published: 2011-12-08
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team has leaned on its two top guards for much of the season. After getting thrashed by Baylor on Sunday, head coach Pam Borton rolled out a three-guard set to start.
It worked out Wednesday, as Rachel Banham, Kiara Buford and Leah Cotton lead the Minnesota to an 81-46 win against Air Force at home.
Buford had 13 points, four rebounds and six assists. The senior guard has been the most consistent player for the Gophers (5-5) this season. She is averaging 13 points per game along with four rebounds and three assists.
Buford has scored in double figures in every game this season and has done so in 10 straight games, which leads the Big Ten.
Banham continued her assent through the college ranks against Air Force. She followed up a 19-point performance against Baylor with an 18-point performance against the Falcons.
She added six rebounds, six assists and four steals. Banham also learned some valuable lessons against the full-court press of the Falcons while improving her shooting to 57 percent in the win
She said Wednesday that her confidence is “getting better now that I’m starting to make shots; before I was struggling. I’m more confident shooting the ball and thinking that it’s going to go in.”
After the Baylor loss, Borton said that the Gophers’ guards are capable of taking over every game. In an effort to get more guards on the court, she started Cotton for the first time this year.
Cotton didn’t disappoint. She maintained her defensive intensity and had a smooth stroke on the offensive side of the court.
She finished with 14 points on 6-for-9 shooting but didn’t play much of the second half. Cotton said she had some breathing problems in the second half.
Borton said the three guards starting against Air Force got the team off to a much better start.
“They really handled the pressure and were getting easy baskets on the other end and changing the tide from how we have started games,” Borton said.
She added that she will start the trio of guards this weekend and in the foreseeable future.
“If we’re going to go anywhere this year, we have to do it with our guard play,” Borton said.
Minnesota improved its fouling troubles and poor shooting Wednesday. The Gophers committed only 12 personal fouls in the game and shot 48 percent from the floor.
“I think the fouls are down because we’re playing smarter basketball,” Borton said. “Rachel’s been shooting better; Leah shot a great percentage tonight; Katie [Loberg] shot a great percentage. That’s three players that shot the ball pretty well, and those people are taking more shots than anybody else.”
Minnesota emphasized post play this week after a sub-par performance against Baylor. Loberg responded with a great night, shooting 6-for-8 for 15 points and adding seven rebounds against the Falcons.
Best Buy Classic
Minnesota will take on Harvard and Alcorn State this weekend at Williams Arena. These games will end the Gophers’ four-game home stand.
Harvard has been best known for academics, but its women’s basketball team has had recent success as well.
It finished with an 18-10 record last season. Harvard is 3-4 this season and has won two straight, but lost its only game against Big Ten competition to Iowa 90-81.
Alcorn State is winless on the season and scored only 36 points in its last game against Oklahoma State.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/08/gophers-dominate-air-force
Published: 2011-12-08
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team has leaned on its two top guards for much of the season. After getting thrashed by Baylor on Sunday, head coach Pam Borton rolled out a three-guard set to start.
It worked out Wednesday, as Rachel Banham, Kiara Buford and Leah Cotton lead the Minnesota to an 81-46 win against Air Force at home.
Buford had 13 points, four rebounds and six assists. The senior guard has been the most consistent player for the Gophers (5-5) this season. She is averaging 13 points per game along with four rebounds and three assists.
Buford has scored in double figures in every game this season and has done so in 10 straight games, which leads the Big Ten.
Banham continued her assent through the college ranks against Air Force. She followed up a 19-point performance against Baylor with an 18-point performance against the Falcons.
She added six rebounds, six assists and four steals. Banham also learned some valuable lessons against the full-court press of the Falcons while improving her shooting to 57 percent in the win
She said Wednesday that her confidence is “getting better now that I’m starting to make shots; before I was struggling. I’m more confident shooting the ball and thinking that it’s going to go in.”
After the Baylor loss, Borton said that the Gophers’ guards are capable of taking over every game. In an effort to get more guards on the court, she started Cotton for the first time this year.
Cotton didn’t disappoint. She maintained her defensive intensity and had a smooth stroke on the offensive side of the court.
She finished with 14 points on 6-for-9 shooting but didn’t play much of the second half. Cotton said she had some breathing problems in the second half.
Borton said the three guards starting against Air Force got the team off to a much better start.
“They really handled the pressure and were getting easy baskets on the other end and changing the tide from how we have started games,” Borton said.
She added that she will start the trio of guards this weekend and in the foreseeable future.
“If we’re going to go anywhere this year, we have to do it with our guard play,” Borton said.
Minnesota improved its fouling troubles and poor shooting Wednesday. The Gophers committed only 12 personal fouls in the game and shot 48 percent from the floor.
“I think the fouls are down because we’re playing smarter basketball,” Borton said. “Rachel’s been shooting better; Leah shot a great percentage tonight; Katie [Loberg] shot a great percentage. That’s three players that shot the ball pretty well, and those people are taking more shots than anybody else.”
Minnesota emphasized post play this week after a sub-par performance against Baylor. Loberg responded with a great night, shooting 6-for-8 for 15 points and adding seven rebounds against the Falcons.
Best Buy Classic
Minnesota will take on Harvard and Alcorn State this weekend at Williams Arena. These games will end the Gophers’ four-game home stand.
Harvard has been best known for academics, but its women’s basketball team has had recent success as well.
It finished with an 18-10 record last season. Harvard is 3-4 this season and has won two straight, but lost its only game against Big Ten competition to Iowa 90-81.
Alcorn State is winless on the season and scored only 36 points in its last game against Oklahoma State.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/08/gophers-dominate-air-force
Minn. greets fast-paced Air Force
Minnesota will look to bounce back from its loss to No. 1 Baylor.
Published: 2011-12-07
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers host Air Force on Wednesday night at Williams Arena at 7 p.m. and will look to bounce back against the Falcons after losing Sunday to No. 1 Baylor.
Air Force and Minnesota have identical records of 4-5. The Falcons most recently lost to South Florida, a team the Gophers lost to Nov. 13.
Head coach Pam Borton said she believes the Gophers are primed to succeed after some early season struggles.
“Playing the second half with a lot more confidence and aggression against Baylor — I think we ended the game feeling better about ourselves as a team,” Borton said. “It probably took us a little too long to get there.”
Minnesota’s two-headed guard attack of freshman Rachel Banham and senior Kiara Buford has emerged as a consistent force on offense.
The two guards have combined to average 25 points, nine rebounds, six assists and four steals a game. Buford is the captain of the young Minnesota team.
“I have a great feeling about this team, especially talent-wise,” Buford said. “I think we’re still learning, we’re still trying to find the gel we need as a team.”
The Gophers’ defense has been a constant nuisance to its opponents this season. It has generated 19 turnovers and 10 steals per game.
Minnesota will likely focus its defensive effort on Air Force guard Alicia Leipprandt, who scored 32 points on 11-for-18 shooting against South Florida. She’s averaged more than 18 points per game on the season.
“She’s a great player, definitely a player that can play in our league,” Borton said. “She’s a prolific scorer, she’s got a great pull-up [jump shot] and can get to the rim.”
Air Force plays with an up-tempo style.
Borton said Air Force is an aggressive team and that she expects a series of defensive traps and pressure from the Falcons.
“It’s going to be 40 minutes of full-court pressure, run-and-jump defense, and they are very good at it,” Borton said.
Gophers post players Katie Loberg and Micaella Riche were ineffective against Baylor. Loberg made only one of her six shots and Riche didn’t make a single shot in seven attempts. The post play will have to improve for the Gophers to succeed this season.
“We just need to produce more because the guards do a really good job,” Riche said. “Pressuring the ball, rebounding, scoring — in general we need to step up our game. It’s just a question about being tougher.”
The two teams haven’t played since 2002, when the Gophers won 88-75 with strong performances from Lindsay Whalen and Janel McCarville.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/07/minn-greets-fast-paced-air-force
Published: 2011-12-07
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers host Air Force on Wednesday night at Williams Arena at 7 p.m. and will look to bounce back against the Falcons after losing Sunday to No. 1 Baylor.
Air Force and Minnesota have identical records of 4-5. The Falcons most recently lost to South Florida, a team the Gophers lost to Nov. 13.
Head coach Pam Borton said she believes the Gophers are primed to succeed after some early season struggles.
“Playing the second half with a lot more confidence and aggression against Baylor — I think we ended the game feeling better about ourselves as a team,” Borton said. “It probably took us a little too long to get there.”
Minnesota’s two-headed guard attack of freshman Rachel Banham and senior Kiara Buford has emerged as a consistent force on offense.
The two guards have combined to average 25 points, nine rebounds, six assists and four steals a game. Buford is the captain of the young Minnesota team.
“I have a great feeling about this team, especially talent-wise,” Buford said. “I think we’re still learning, we’re still trying to find the gel we need as a team.”
The Gophers’ defense has been a constant nuisance to its opponents this season. It has generated 19 turnovers and 10 steals per game.
Minnesota will likely focus its defensive effort on Air Force guard Alicia Leipprandt, who scored 32 points on 11-for-18 shooting against South Florida. She’s averaged more than 18 points per game on the season.
“She’s a great player, definitely a player that can play in our league,” Borton said. “She’s a prolific scorer, she’s got a great pull-up [jump shot] and can get to the rim.”
Air Force plays with an up-tempo style.
Borton said Air Force is an aggressive team and that she expects a series of defensive traps and pressure from the Falcons.
“It’s going to be 40 minutes of full-court pressure, run-and-jump defense, and they are very good at it,” Borton said.
Gophers post players Katie Loberg and Micaella Riche were ineffective against Baylor. Loberg made only one of her six shots and Riche didn’t make a single shot in seven attempts. The post play will have to improve for the Gophers to succeed this season.
“We just need to produce more because the guards do a really good job,” Riche said. “Pressuring the ball, rebounding, scoring — in general we need to step up our game. It’s just a question about being tougher.”
The two teams haven’t played since 2002, when the Gophers won 88-75 with strong performances from Lindsay Whalen and Janel McCarville.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/07/minn-greets-fast-paced-air-force
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
No. 1 Baylor routs Gophers at Williams Arena
Minnesota was dominated inside by Brittney Griner and the Lady Bears.
Published: 2011-12-05
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota was unable to keep up with Brittney Griner and the No. 1 Baylor Lady Bears on Sunday, losing 89-60. The loss dropped the Gophers to 4-5.
Griner led Baylor with 20 points, nine rebounds and five blocks along with her immense defensive presence.
She consistently beats double-teams and did so against the Gophers on Sunday.
“I’m so used to having two or three on me, it’s kind of like that’s my one-on-one,” Griner said.
Griner played for Team U.S.A. in the Olympics and was the Player of the Year in the Big 12 last season. Griner attributed her experience with Team U.S.A. to her improvement this season.
“It helped me step up my game. Playing against bigger players, stronger, smarter veterans,” Griner said.
When Griner wasn’t leading the attack, she passed it to open teammates such as guard Odyssey Sims. Sims had 15 points and nine assists along with four steals.
“[Griner] ran the floor pretty good, just knowing to give it to her and know who’s open, and they did a great job finishing,” Sims said.
The Lady Bears beat the Gophers in almost every statistical category and dominated inside, out-rebounding Minnesota 58-39. Baylor also outscored the Gophers 44-22 in the paint.
Minnesota head coach Pam Borton said the Gophers need to have a better mindset and focus when playing in the paint.
“In the first half, we missed 15 shots in the paint,” Borton said. “We have to start off a little better offensively and make some easy baskets.”
Freshman Rachel Banham put together a decent game against the No. 1 team in the nation. She had 19 points, five rebounds and three steals.
“Coach said to me right before half that I need to start making plays and I need to start playing like I’m one of the best players out there,” Banham said. “I think that really helped me.”
Banham shot 60 percent from the floor in the second half.
Baylor’s defense was the story of the afternoon. Led by Griner, the Lady Bears had nine blocks, 10 steals and many tips on Minnesota passes.
Baylor led the Gophers 48-21 at halftime, but only outscored Minnesota 41-39 in the second half.
Lady Bears’ head coach Kim Mulkey said that Baylor didn’t play very well.
“I don’t want to sound like I’m not appreciative of a 29-30 point victory. I am,” Mulkey said. “I thought we didn’t defend very well in the second half.”
The swarming Baylor defense forced the Gophers to shoot only 18.9 percent in the first half and 30 percent for the game. Borton said she was encouraged by the improvement in the second-half shooting.
“I think in the second half we were very comfortable offensively,” Borton said. “I think we found our rhythm, and our guards did a great job making shots and making plays. We need better post play.”
Senior Kiara Buford had a tough start, but finished the day with 13 points on 6-for-16 shooting.
Banham, Buford and Leah Cotton all scored in double figures. Cotton shot only 4-for-17 from the floor.
“They have great defense, but I missed my shots because I didn’t hit them,” Cotton said.
The three Gophers guards led the team in the second half.
“Our guards can take over games,” Borton said. “The guards have the ball in their hands the majority of the game, and I think they need to take more responsibility in knowing they can do this every single game, and it’ll open up our post players.”
Shooting has been the Gophers’ weakness this season. They shot 34 percent against Wake Forest in an 82-65 loss Thursday night.
The Gophers will play their next three games at home after playing six of nine on the road. Borton said it will be nice to have a string of games at home this week.
Minnesota will host Air Force at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Sports Pavilion.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/05/no-1-baylor-routs-gophers-williams-arena
Published: 2011-12-05
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota was unable to keep up with Brittney Griner and the No. 1 Baylor Lady Bears on Sunday, losing 89-60. The loss dropped the Gophers to 4-5.
Griner led Baylor with 20 points, nine rebounds and five blocks along with her immense defensive presence.
She consistently beats double-teams and did so against the Gophers on Sunday.
“I’m so used to having two or three on me, it’s kind of like that’s my one-on-one,” Griner said.
Griner played for Team U.S.A. in the Olympics and was the Player of the Year in the Big 12 last season. Griner attributed her experience with Team U.S.A. to her improvement this season.
“It helped me step up my game. Playing against bigger players, stronger, smarter veterans,” Griner said.
When Griner wasn’t leading the attack, she passed it to open teammates such as guard Odyssey Sims. Sims had 15 points and nine assists along with four steals.
“[Griner] ran the floor pretty good, just knowing to give it to her and know who’s open, and they did a great job finishing,” Sims said.
The Lady Bears beat the Gophers in almost every statistical category and dominated inside, out-rebounding Minnesota 58-39. Baylor also outscored the Gophers 44-22 in the paint.
Minnesota head coach Pam Borton said the Gophers need to have a better mindset and focus when playing in the paint.
“In the first half, we missed 15 shots in the paint,” Borton said. “We have to start off a little better offensively and make some easy baskets.”
Freshman Rachel Banham put together a decent game against the No. 1 team in the nation. She had 19 points, five rebounds and three steals.
“Coach said to me right before half that I need to start making plays and I need to start playing like I’m one of the best players out there,” Banham said. “I think that really helped me.”
Banham shot 60 percent from the floor in the second half.
Baylor’s defense was the story of the afternoon. Led by Griner, the Lady Bears had nine blocks, 10 steals and many tips on Minnesota passes.
Baylor led the Gophers 48-21 at halftime, but only outscored Minnesota 41-39 in the second half.
Lady Bears’ head coach Kim Mulkey said that Baylor didn’t play very well.
“I don’t want to sound like I’m not appreciative of a 29-30 point victory. I am,” Mulkey said. “I thought we didn’t defend very well in the second half.”
The swarming Baylor defense forced the Gophers to shoot only 18.9 percent in the first half and 30 percent for the game. Borton said she was encouraged by the improvement in the second-half shooting.
“I think in the second half we were very comfortable offensively,” Borton said. “I think we found our rhythm, and our guards did a great job making shots and making plays. We need better post play.”
Senior Kiara Buford had a tough start, but finished the day with 13 points on 6-for-16 shooting.
Banham, Buford and Leah Cotton all scored in double figures. Cotton shot only 4-for-17 from the floor.
“They have great defense, but I missed my shots because I didn’t hit them,” Cotton said.
The three Gophers guards led the team in the second half.
“Our guards can take over games,” Borton said. “The guards have the ball in their hands the majority of the game, and I think they need to take more responsibility in knowing they can do this every single game, and it’ll open up our post players.”
Shooting has been the Gophers’ weakness this season. They shot 34 percent against Wake Forest in an 82-65 loss Thursday night.
The Gophers will play their next three games at home after playing six of nine on the road. Borton said it will be nice to have a string of games at home this week.
Minnesota will host Air Force at 7 p.m. Wednesday at the Sports Pavilion.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/05/no-1-baylor-routs-gophers-williams-arena
Gophers blown out by Deacons
Minnesota's poor shooting lead to a lopsided loss to Wake Forest.
Published: 2011-12-01
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota had a dreadful shooting performance and was in foul trouble yet again in a 82-65 loss to Wake Forest. The team fell to 4-4 on the season with the loss.
Wake Forest beat the Gophers at their own game. The Deacons out-hustled Minnesota up and down the court in transition.
Minnesota couldn’t hit a shot for the first 10 minutes of the game and started with 20-0 deficit that it was never able to overcome.
The Gophers shot 0-for-13 and had 10 turnovers before they made their first field goal with 10:03 left in the first half.
Astonishingly, Minnesota was only down 40-31 at halftime. After starting with the 20-point deficit, the Gophers went on a 31-15 run to get back into the game.
Senior Kiara Buford and freshman Rachel Banham led the mini-comeback. Buford and Banham hit three shots from behind the arc and had three steals to make the contest close before the half.
Minnesota couldn’t get over the final hurdle and overcome the early deficit to the Deacons and Wake Forest pulled away in the second half.
Banham was reprimanded by the referee for her language and had to keep her composure to avoid a technical foul. She finished the night with 12 points on 4-for-16 shooting and five turnovers.
Minnesota had 26 turnovers on the night and the Deacons scored 29 points off those turnovers.
The Gophers continued to have trouble with fouls. They put Wake Forest on the free throw line 24 times and had 19 fouls on the night. Senior Jackie Voigt fouled out of the game with more than 10 minutes remaining in the game.
All the missed shots and foul trouble left plenty of opportunity for Katie Loberg and Micaella Riche to wrangle rebounds.
Loberg finished with ten points and 11 rebounds. It was her third straight double-double. Riche scored in double digits for the first time in her career. She had 11 points and seven rebounds.
The Gophers were outscored in the paint 40-24.
Minnesota shot only 30 percent in the first half and 34 percent for the game.
Buford finished with 15 points and was the only Gophers player with a good shooting percentage, 4-for-5.
The Gophers welcome Baylor to Williams Arena on Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/01/gophers-blown-out-deacons
Published: 2011-12-01
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota had a dreadful shooting performance and was in foul trouble yet again in a 82-65 loss to Wake Forest. The team fell to 4-4 on the season with the loss.
Wake Forest beat the Gophers at their own game. The Deacons out-hustled Minnesota up and down the court in transition.
Minnesota couldn’t hit a shot for the first 10 minutes of the game and started with 20-0 deficit that it was never able to overcome.
The Gophers shot 0-for-13 and had 10 turnovers before they made their first field goal with 10:03 left in the first half.
Astonishingly, Minnesota was only down 40-31 at halftime. After starting with the 20-point deficit, the Gophers went on a 31-15 run to get back into the game.
Senior Kiara Buford and freshman Rachel Banham led the mini-comeback. Buford and Banham hit three shots from behind the arc and had three steals to make the contest close before the half.
Minnesota couldn’t get over the final hurdle and overcome the early deficit to the Deacons and Wake Forest pulled away in the second half.
Banham was reprimanded by the referee for her language and had to keep her composure to avoid a technical foul. She finished the night with 12 points on 4-for-16 shooting and five turnovers.
Minnesota had 26 turnovers on the night and the Deacons scored 29 points off those turnovers.
The Gophers continued to have trouble with fouls. They put Wake Forest on the free throw line 24 times and had 19 fouls on the night. Senior Jackie Voigt fouled out of the game with more than 10 minutes remaining in the game.
All the missed shots and foul trouble left plenty of opportunity for Katie Loberg and Micaella Riche to wrangle rebounds.
Loberg finished with ten points and 11 rebounds. It was her third straight double-double. Riche scored in double digits for the first time in her career. She had 11 points and seven rebounds.
The Gophers were outscored in the paint 40-24.
Minnesota shot only 30 percent in the first half and 34 percent for the game.
Buford finished with 15 points and was the only Gophers player with a good shooting percentage, 4-for-5.
The Gophers welcome Baylor to Williams Arena on Sunday afternoon at 1 p.m.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/12/01/gophers-blown-out-deacons
Jerry Kill prepares for first full offseason with Minn.
Kill and his staff have already begun offseason measures.
Published: 2011-11-30
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers put their season to bed against Illinois last week with a 27-7 victory. The win was one of only three in the first year of the Jerry Kill era.
Minnesota can now look ahead to the 2012 season. Kill has had a full year in Minnesota and will be able to control the recruiting and offseason training for the first time going into next year.
Some of the Gophers’ issues have been corrected, but problems still exist.
For one, Kill has expressed concern throughout the year about the state of the team’s academic standing.
Kill said Minnesota was hovering close to falling below the required Academic Progress Rate guidelines. Kill and his staff enforced a check-in policy this season for the players to wake up and check-in with a team official before going to class.
The Gophers honored 24 seniors graduating from the team Saturday and will have to replace a large percentage of them. Quarterback MarQueis Gray played his first full season at the position and will be back, but most of his offensive weapons will depart, including starting running back Duane Bennett, wide receiver Da’Jon McKnight and both tight ends — Eric Lair and Collin McGarry.
“I’m still going to be the leader and help those new guys coming in,” Gray said.
The position battles have already begun as Kill and his staff had the team back in the training room Monday following the end of the season for lifting, running and conditioning. McKnight said he believes that the wide receiving corps will be able to step up in his absence.
“Most of them played this year, Devin [Crawford-Tufts], BG [Brandon Green], Ge’Shaun [Harris]. They’re going to be fine,” McKnight said. “They’ll be comfortable with the system and play fast.”
The offensive line is one position on the field that has some depth to look forward to next season. Eleven different offensive linemen played this season and Minnesota has two big recruits committed in Jonah Pirsig and Isaac Hayes.
“The offensive line has got a lot of young kids and they’re going to get bigger and stronger,” Kill said.
Minnesota’s defense was showing signs of life in the latter half of the season, but it will also be hit hard with departures. Starting defensive tackles Brandon Kirksey and Anthony Jacobs and five defensive backs graduate this year. The Gophers will have to depend on a lot of younger players to take over.
“They’ll grow up fast. You get not only spring ball and another fall camp, so they’ll get two good doses of it before we start again,” defensive coordinator Tracy Claeys said.
Ra’Shede Hageman is one of the leading candidates to take over a defensive tackle position. He was recruited heavily out of high school as a tight end, but converted to the defensive line. He recorded two sacks in the final game against Illinois.
“He’s a big man and a hard guy to handle in there,” Kill said.
One defensive senior the Gophers hope to return is Troy Stoudermire, who missed most of the season with a broken arm. He would have to file for a medical hardship waiver and be granted another year of eligibility by the NCAA.
“I’m very excited to get a chance to come back and play football,” Stoudermire said. “I haven’t heard anything. Hopefully it’s good news.”
Recruiting will be the next step for Kill and his staff to supplement the current Gophers roster.
“Not being in a bowl game, can we do more recruiting?” Kill asked rhetorically. “You bet. You’ve got more time to watch film.” He added, “I’ll be on the road as soon as I can get out on the road.”
Conditioning for the current roster will begin swiftly, according to Kill. After the win against Illinois, Kill was not shy about what needed to be done for Minnesota to compete at a higher level next season.
“We’re going to go back to work on Monday. We know we aren’t strong enough or fast enough yet,” Kill said. “We’re not going to take a lot of time off. Our offseason will be much different than it was a year ago. It will be much tougher and much different.”
All content © 1900 - 2011
ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/30/jerry-kill-prepares-first-full-offseason-minn
Published: 2011-11-30
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers put their season to bed against Illinois last week with a 27-7 victory. The win was one of only three in the first year of the Jerry Kill era.
Minnesota can now look ahead to the 2012 season. Kill has had a full year in Minnesota and will be able to control the recruiting and offseason training for the first time going into next year.
Some of the Gophers’ issues have been corrected, but problems still exist.
For one, Kill has expressed concern throughout the year about the state of the team’s academic standing.
Kill said Minnesota was hovering close to falling below the required Academic Progress Rate guidelines. Kill and his staff enforced a check-in policy this season for the players to wake up and check-in with a team official before going to class.
The Gophers honored 24 seniors graduating from the team Saturday and will have to replace a large percentage of them. Quarterback MarQueis Gray played his first full season at the position and will be back, but most of his offensive weapons will depart, including starting running back Duane Bennett, wide receiver Da’Jon McKnight and both tight ends — Eric Lair and Collin McGarry.
“I’m still going to be the leader and help those new guys coming in,” Gray said.
The position battles have already begun as Kill and his staff had the team back in the training room Monday following the end of the season for lifting, running and conditioning. McKnight said he believes that the wide receiving corps will be able to step up in his absence.
“Most of them played this year, Devin [Crawford-Tufts], BG [Brandon Green], Ge’Shaun [Harris]. They’re going to be fine,” McKnight said. “They’ll be comfortable with the system and play fast.”
The offensive line is one position on the field that has some depth to look forward to next season. Eleven different offensive linemen played this season and Minnesota has two big recruits committed in Jonah Pirsig and Isaac Hayes.
“The offensive line has got a lot of young kids and they’re going to get bigger and stronger,” Kill said.
Minnesota’s defense was showing signs of life in the latter half of the season, but it will also be hit hard with departures. Starting defensive tackles Brandon Kirksey and Anthony Jacobs and five defensive backs graduate this year. The Gophers will have to depend on a lot of younger players to take over.
“They’ll grow up fast. You get not only spring ball and another fall camp, so they’ll get two good doses of it before we start again,” defensive coordinator Tracy Claeys said.
Ra’Shede Hageman is one of the leading candidates to take over a defensive tackle position. He was recruited heavily out of high school as a tight end, but converted to the defensive line. He recorded two sacks in the final game against Illinois.
“He’s a big man and a hard guy to handle in there,” Kill said.
One defensive senior the Gophers hope to return is Troy Stoudermire, who missed most of the season with a broken arm. He would have to file for a medical hardship waiver and be granted another year of eligibility by the NCAA.
“I’m very excited to get a chance to come back and play football,” Stoudermire said. “I haven’t heard anything. Hopefully it’s good news.”
Recruiting will be the next step for Kill and his staff to supplement the current Gophers roster.
“Not being in a bowl game, can we do more recruiting?” Kill asked rhetorically. “You bet. You’ve got more time to watch film.” He added, “I’ll be on the road as soon as I can get out on the road.”
Conditioning for the current roster will begin swiftly, according to Kill. After the win against Illinois, Kill was not shy about what needed to be done for Minnesota to compete at a higher level next season.
“We’re going to go back to work on Monday. We know we aren’t strong enough or fast enough yet,” Kill said. “We’re not going to take a lot of time off. Our offseason will be much different than it was a year ago. It will be much tougher and much different.”
All content © 1900 - 2011
ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/30/jerry-kill-prepares-first-full-offseason-minn
Monday, November 28, 2011
Quick hitters
A few highlights from the Gophers' win over the Illini.
Published: 2011-11-28
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
•Minnesota led from start to finish Saturday in its win against Illinois, the first time the Gophers had a lead for an entire game this season.
•The Gophers won a game by double digits for the first time since their 2009 victory over Purdue.
•After the loss, the University of Illinois fired head coach Ron Zook. He won the first six games of the season and lost the final six.
•Minnesota had its best pass defense performance of the year against Illinois, as the Illini only gained 78 yards through the air and averaged only 2.9 yards per attempt.
•Minnesota’s defense held the Illini to less than 100 yards in both passing and rushing. The last time that happened was 2006 against Temple.
•Sixth-year senior Kim Royston finished the season third in the Big Ten in tackles with 123 and had a conference-leading 71 solo tackles.
•Minnesota finished the season last in the Big Ten in total offense and averaged only 310 yards per game this season.
•The Gophers had 19 sacks on the year, more than double their total last year — eight. They finished with a flurry and got five sacks against Illinois.
•Minnesota was last in the Big Ten in turnover margin with 17 turnovers and nine takeaways.
•Walk-on kicker Jordan Wettstein converted 43- and 51-yard field goals Saturday. The 51-yard kick was the longest of his career.
•Minnesota had only two penalties Saturday, the fewest penalties it had in a game all season.
•Sophomore Ra’Shede Hageman recorded two sacks against Illinois, his first two sacks of the season.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/28/quick-hitters
Published: 2011-11-28
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
•Minnesota led from start to finish Saturday in its win against Illinois, the first time the Gophers had a lead for an entire game this season.
•The Gophers won a game by double digits for the first time since their 2009 victory over Purdue.
•After the loss, the University of Illinois fired head coach Ron Zook. He won the first six games of the season and lost the final six.
•Minnesota had its best pass defense performance of the year against Illinois, as the Illini only gained 78 yards through the air and averaged only 2.9 yards per attempt.
•Minnesota’s defense held the Illini to less than 100 yards in both passing and rushing. The last time that happened was 2006 against Temple.
•Sixth-year senior Kim Royston finished the season third in the Big Ten in tackles with 123 and had a conference-leading 71 solo tackles.
•Minnesota finished the season last in the Big Ten in total offense and averaged only 310 yards per game this season.
•The Gophers had 19 sacks on the year, more than double their total last year — eight. They finished with a flurry and got five sacks against Illinois.
•Minnesota was last in the Big Ten in turnover margin with 17 turnovers and nine takeaways.
•Walk-on kicker Jordan Wettstein converted 43- and 51-yard field goals Saturday. The 51-yard kick was the longest of his career.
•Minnesota had only two penalties Saturday, the fewest penalties it had in a game all season.
•Sophomore Ra’Shede Hageman recorded two sacks against Illinois, his first two sacks of the season.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/28/quick-hitters
Banham lifts Minn. with buzzer-beater
Minnesota split a weekend slate of games.
Published: 2011-11-28
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team played an exciting weekend tournament in Moraga, Calif., splitting two games that featured last-second shots.
On Friday night, Quinnipiac nabbed the victory from the Gophers with a game-winner in the final minute.
On Saturday night, Minnesota struck back when freshman point guard Rachel Banham made a game-winning jump shot with 0.6 seconds left.
“That shot felt really good,” Banham said of the last-second winner. “Coming off of yesterday’s game where someone shot it over me ... it felt like I got payback a little bit.”
Banham had an up-and-down performance over the weekend. She finished the weekend with 25 points but also had six turnovers. Early foul trouble Saturday cost her time on the floor, but didn’t prevent her from hitting the final shot.
Banham shot 13-of-30 for the weekend and had seven assists.
Poor shooting undid Minnesota on Friday night, as the team made only 28 percent of its shots in the second half.
Shooting was a strength Saturday, as the Gophers shot 52 percent in the last half in the win over Virginia Tech.
Junior Katie Loberg was Minnesota’s most consistent player on the floor in the two contests. She had 35 points and 20 rebounds in the two games.
The Gophers continued to struggle controlling their aggressive tendencies and had a hard time balancing tough defense and fouls. Minnesota had 23 fouls in the loss to Quinnipiac, and Banham and junior Leah Cotton were in foul trouble in Saturday’s game.
Senior Kiara Buford had an off-night Friday when she was shut out until six minutes left in the game. She bounced back Saturday with a 15-point performance on 5-for-8 shooting.
Minnesota lost the rebounding battle over the weekend 73-69, and surrendered 28 offensive rebounds to its smaller opponents.
Minnesota travels to Wake Forest for a game Thursday and follows that up against No. 1 Baylor and All-American Brittney Griner on Sunday.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/28/banham-lifts-minn-buzzer-beater
Published: 2011-11-28
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team played an exciting weekend tournament in Moraga, Calif., splitting two games that featured last-second shots.
On Friday night, Quinnipiac nabbed the victory from the Gophers with a game-winner in the final minute.
On Saturday night, Minnesota struck back when freshman point guard Rachel Banham made a game-winning jump shot with 0.6 seconds left.
“That shot felt really good,” Banham said of the last-second winner. “Coming off of yesterday’s game where someone shot it over me ... it felt like I got payback a little bit.”
Banham had an up-and-down performance over the weekend. She finished the weekend with 25 points but also had six turnovers. Early foul trouble Saturday cost her time on the floor, but didn’t prevent her from hitting the final shot.
Banham shot 13-of-30 for the weekend and had seven assists.
Poor shooting undid Minnesota on Friday night, as the team made only 28 percent of its shots in the second half.
Shooting was a strength Saturday, as the Gophers shot 52 percent in the last half in the win over Virginia Tech.
Junior Katie Loberg was Minnesota’s most consistent player on the floor in the two contests. She had 35 points and 20 rebounds in the two games.
The Gophers continued to struggle controlling their aggressive tendencies and had a hard time balancing tough defense and fouls. Minnesota had 23 fouls in the loss to Quinnipiac, and Banham and junior Leah Cotton were in foul trouble in Saturday’s game.
Senior Kiara Buford had an off-night Friday when she was shut out until six minutes left in the game. She bounced back Saturday with a 15-point performance on 5-for-8 shooting.
Minnesota lost the rebounding battle over the weekend 73-69, and surrendered 28 offensive rebounds to its smaller opponents.
Minnesota travels to Wake Forest for a game Thursday and follows that up against No. 1 Baylor and All-American Brittney Griner on Sunday.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/28/banham-lifts-minn-buzzer-beater
Banham hits game-winner as Gophers earn weekend split
The freshman had 15 points and four assists, and scored with 0.6 seconds left to give Minnesota a one-point lead.
Published: 2011-11-26
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
Freshman Rachel Banham hit a game-winning shot for the Gophers women’s basketball team in a 65-64 win over Virginia Tech on Saturday.
Minnesota beat the Hokies in the third-place game of the St. Mary’s Tournament in Moraga, Calif., to learn a 1-1 split on the weekend. The Gophers' record improved to 4-3 on the season.
Minnesota had a 17-2 run in the first half, and like yesterday, it held a lead at halftime, 38-34. The Gophers surrendered that lead shortly into the second half, but were able to recover in the final seconds as Banham scored.
Banham got into early foul trouble to cut down her minutes on the floor, but she was still able to contribute with 15 points and four assists.
Katie Loberg had her second straight strong performance with 20 points and seven rebounds. She was the most consistent player on the floor for Minnesota this weekend.
Senior Kiara Buford had a much better game than she had in Friday's 64-62 loss to Quinnipiac. She led the team against the Hokies when the Gophers got in early foul trouble. Buford had 15 points on the night.
The Gophers improved their shooting percentage in Saturday’s first half. Minnesota shot 52% in the first half and 47% for the game.
Minnesota continued to have trouble controlling its aggressive tendencies, and had a hard time balancing tough defense and fouls. The Gophers had 15 fouls against Virginia Tech, and had averaged 19 fouls heading into the game.
The Hokies’ Monet Tellier finished the game with 18 points, seven rebounds and five assists, but missed a free-throw that allowed Banham to come back and hit the game-winner.
Virginia Tech player Latorri Hines-Allen was injured during a scramble for a loose ball and was taken away by an ambulance for precautionary reasons. There was a 15-minute delay in the first half while paramedics attended to Hines-Allen.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/26/banham-hits-game-winner-gophers-earn-weekend-split
Published: 2011-11-26
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
Freshman Rachel Banham hit a game-winning shot for the Gophers women’s basketball team in a 65-64 win over Virginia Tech on Saturday.
Minnesota beat the Hokies in the third-place game of the St. Mary’s Tournament in Moraga, Calif., to learn a 1-1 split on the weekend. The Gophers' record improved to 4-3 on the season.
Minnesota had a 17-2 run in the first half, and like yesterday, it held a lead at halftime, 38-34. The Gophers surrendered that lead shortly into the second half, but were able to recover in the final seconds as Banham scored.
Banham got into early foul trouble to cut down her minutes on the floor, but she was still able to contribute with 15 points and four assists.
Katie Loberg had her second straight strong performance with 20 points and seven rebounds. She was the most consistent player on the floor for Minnesota this weekend.
Senior Kiara Buford had a much better game than she had in Friday's 64-62 loss to Quinnipiac. She led the team against the Hokies when the Gophers got in early foul trouble. Buford had 15 points on the night.
The Gophers improved their shooting percentage in Saturday’s first half. Minnesota shot 52% in the first half and 47% for the game.
Minnesota continued to have trouble controlling its aggressive tendencies, and had a hard time balancing tough defense and fouls. The Gophers had 15 fouls against Virginia Tech, and had averaged 19 fouls heading into the game.
The Hokies’ Monet Tellier finished the game with 18 points, seven rebounds and five assists, but missed a free-throw that allowed Banham to come back and hit the game-winner.
Virginia Tech player Latorri Hines-Allen was injured during a scramble for a loose ball and was taken away by an ambulance for precautionary reasons. There was a 15-minute delay in the first half while paramedics attended to Hines-Allen.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/26/banham-hits-game-winner-gophers-earn-weekend-split
Women's basketball upset by Quinnipiac
The Gophers struggled with turnovers, fouls and rebounding in the 64-62 loss.
Published: 2011-11-25
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team lost Friday night against Quinnipiac, 64-62. This was the first game of the St. Mary’s tournament in Moraga, California.
Minnesota shot poorly in the second half and allowed Quinnipiac to nab the victory with a go-ahead shot in the final minute.
The game was a back and forth battle with many turnovers. The Gophers led 34-31 at the half, but bad shooting in the second half allowed the Bobcats to pull ahead.
Minnesota was unable to make a shot for the first four minutes of the second half. Minnesota shot only 37 percent on the night. Tough defense allowed the Gophers to stay in the game, but couldn’t lead them to the win.
Senior Kiara Buford had been the steady force on the young Minnesota team, but had an off night. She wasn’t able to make a basket until six minutes left in the game. She tried to place her stamp on the game by leading the team with a late surge, but came up short.
Buford finished with 10 points.
The sloppy play and poor shooting allowed junior forward Katie Loberg to put up big statistics on rebounds and put-backs. Loberg had a double-double in the first half and finished with 15 points and 13 rebounds.
Freshman Rachel Banham had an up-and-down evening with 12 points and six turnovers.
The Gophers continued to have difficulty with their propensity to foul. They had 21 fouls Friday and have averaged 19 fouls per game this season.
Leah Cotton has been a spark-plug both offensively and defensively, but she was in foul trouble most of the game and only played five minutes.
Minnesota had 17 turnovers and lost the rebounding battle 42-38, which included allowing 16 offensive rebounds to the Bobcats.
The Gophers will next play the loser of Virginia Tech and St. Mary’s in the championship game at 7 p.m. Saturday night.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/25/womens-basketball-upset-quinnipiac
Published: 2011-11-25
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team lost Friday night against Quinnipiac, 64-62. This was the first game of the St. Mary’s tournament in Moraga, California.
Minnesota shot poorly in the second half and allowed Quinnipiac to nab the victory with a go-ahead shot in the final minute.
The game was a back and forth battle with many turnovers. The Gophers led 34-31 at the half, but bad shooting in the second half allowed the Bobcats to pull ahead.
Minnesota was unable to make a shot for the first four minutes of the second half. Minnesota shot only 37 percent on the night. Tough defense allowed the Gophers to stay in the game, but couldn’t lead them to the win.
Senior Kiara Buford had been the steady force on the young Minnesota team, but had an off night. She wasn’t able to make a basket until six minutes left in the game. She tried to place her stamp on the game by leading the team with a late surge, but came up short.
Buford finished with 10 points.
The sloppy play and poor shooting allowed junior forward Katie Loberg to put up big statistics on rebounds and put-backs. Loberg had a double-double in the first half and finished with 15 points and 13 rebounds.
Freshman Rachel Banham had an up-and-down evening with 12 points and six turnovers.
The Gophers continued to have difficulty with their propensity to foul. They had 21 fouls Friday and have averaged 19 fouls per game this season.
Leah Cotton has been a spark-plug both offensively and defensively, but she was in foul trouble most of the game and only played five minutes.
Minnesota had 17 turnovers and lost the rebounding battle 42-38, which included allowing 16 offensive rebounds to the Bobcats.
The Gophers will next play the loser of Virginia Tech and St. Mary’s in the championship game at 7 p.m. Saturday night.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/25/womens-basketball-upset-quinnipiac
Gophers conclude 2011 with Illinois
Minnesota will host Illinois in search of its third win.
Published: 2011-11-23
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers wrap up their season against Illinois on Saturday at TCF Bank Stadium. Minnesota has had a rocky road in head coach Jerry Kill’s first season with a 2-9 record (1-6 conference.)
With the rest of the school on Thanksgiving break, the football team is in search of a win to be thankful for this holiday weekend.
Minnesota played poorly through the first half of the season, but has shown life over the last half.
“From the second half of the Nebraska [game] on, it’s been a different group of kids,” Kill said. “We’ve gotten a little bit tougher over the last four games.”
Minnesota’s 24 seniors will be honored in their final game.
“I don’t think it’s hit me yet. I don’t think it’s going to hit me until afterwards,” senior defensive tackle Brandon Kirksey said.
The Illini started out the year on fire with six straight wins, but that flame has subsided and Illinois has lost five straight games. Illinois head coach Ron Zook has been with the team for seven years, but rumors are swirling about his potential departure after the recent losing streak.
Illinois will be focused on its final game in honor of its seniors, too. Zook said the team was determined at practice this week.
“Well, they don’t have school. They don’t have anything to worry about but football,” Zook said in his Tuesday press conference. Illinois is already on Thanksgiving break.
The Gophers defeated Illinois last year 38-34, in the first game after Minnesota dismissed Tim Brewster. That win was fueled by three touchdowns from former running back DeLeon Eskridge.
This year, Minnesota will try to end the year with a win behind the arm and legs of MarQueis Gray.
Gray had a poor passing performance last week but ran for 147 yards and a touchdown. Gray needs only 46 yards to set Minnesota’s single-season rushing record for quarterbacks.
“That defense is ranked just like Michigan State was. I believe in our offensive line,” Gray said. “I’m just going to have to use my feet, squirm around and make plays.”
Gray has battled a back injury the last three weeks, but says that he feels good going into the last game of the year. He added that he looks forward to being able to rehab his back in the offseason.
Illinois’ defense is one of the best in the Big Ten this season and is led by dominant pass-rusher Whitney Mercilus, who has a nation-leading 13.5 sacks.
Mercilus is 2.5 sacks away from breaking Illinois’ record for most in a season, previously held by former NFL star Simeon Rice.
Illinois ranks ninth in the nation in yards per game allowed.
“[Their] defensive ends are very, very athletic. I think they have a chance to be drafted early when they come out,” Kill said. “They’ve been impressive all year.”
The Illini defense ranks second in the Big Ten in rushing defense. Running the ball is an area that the Gophers improved last week against Northwestern. Minnesota tallied its highest total all season with 269 yards in rushing offense last week.
On the other side of the ball, Minnesota has had difficulty stopping the opposing passing game. The Gophers have allowed 229 yards per game through the air and 23 touchdowns to only four interceptions.
Illinois’ AJ Jenkins is one of the top receivers in the nation with 1,166 yards and seven touchdowns.
“He’s bigger than us and there isn’t anything I can do about that,” defensive coordinator Tracy Claeys said. “I worry about him getting over the top of us. We’ll spend a lot of time trying to keep him in front of us.”
Illinois has played two quarterbacks recently, with freshman Reilly O’Toole and starter Nathan Scheelhaase getting some snaps. Zook said that he plans to use both players Saturday.
The Illini employ a three-pronged rushing attack with Scheelhaase and senior running backs Jason Ford and Troy Pollard. However, Illinois’ running game is only sixth in the Big Ten with 179 yards per game.
Although Saturday will be Minnesota’s last game, Kill said he hopes the seniors get a chance to end their careers on a high note.
“If I could have a Christmas list of giving somebody a gift, I’d love to see those seniors get a win on Saturday,” Kill said.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/23/gophers-conclude-2011-illinois
Published: 2011-11-23
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers wrap up their season against Illinois on Saturday at TCF Bank Stadium. Minnesota has had a rocky road in head coach Jerry Kill’s first season with a 2-9 record (1-6 conference.)
With the rest of the school on Thanksgiving break, the football team is in search of a win to be thankful for this holiday weekend.
Minnesota played poorly through the first half of the season, but has shown life over the last half.
“From the second half of the Nebraska [game] on, it’s been a different group of kids,” Kill said. “We’ve gotten a little bit tougher over the last four games.”
Minnesota’s 24 seniors will be honored in their final game.
“I don’t think it’s hit me yet. I don’t think it’s going to hit me until afterwards,” senior defensive tackle Brandon Kirksey said.
The Illini started out the year on fire with six straight wins, but that flame has subsided and Illinois has lost five straight games. Illinois head coach Ron Zook has been with the team for seven years, but rumors are swirling about his potential departure after the recent losing streak.
Illinois will be focused on its final game in honor of its seniors, too. Zook said the team was determined at practice this week.
“Well, they don’t have school. They don’t have anything to worry about but football,” Zook said in his Tuesday press conference. Illinois is already on Thanksgiving break.
The Gophers defeated Illinois last year 38-34, in the first game after Minnesota dismissed Tim Brewster. That win was fueled by three touchdowns from former running back DeLeon Eskridge.
This year, Minnesota will try to end the year with a win behind the arm and legs of MarQueis Gray.
Gray had a poor passing performance last week but ran for 147 yards and a touchdown. Gray needs only 46 yards to set Minnesota’s single-season rushing record for quarterbacks.
“That defense is ranked just like Michigan State was. I believe in our offensive line,” Gray said. “I’m just going to have to use my feet, squirm around and make plays.”
Gray has battled a back injury the last three weeks, but says that he feels good going into the last game of the year. He added that he looks forward to being able to rehab his back in the offseason.
Illinois’ defense is one of the best in the Big Ten this season and is led by dominant pass-rusher Whitney Mercilus, who has a nation-leading 13.5 sacks.
Mercilus is 2.5 sacks away from breaking Illinois’ record for most in a season, previously held by former NFL star Simeon Rice.
Illinois ranks ninth in the nation in yards per game allowed.
“[Their] defensive ends are very, very athletic. I think they have a chance to be drafted early when they come out,” Kill said. “They’ve been impressive all year.”
The Illini defense ranks second in the Big Ten in rushing defense. Running the ball is an area that the Gophers improved last week against Northwestern. Minnesota tallied its highest total all season with 269 yards in rushing offense last week.
On the other side of the ball, Minnesota has had difficulty stopping the opposing passing game. The Gophers have allowed 229 yards per game through the air and 23 touchdowns to only four interceptions.
Illinois’ AJ Jenkins is one of the top receivers in the nation with 1,166 yards and seven touchdowns.
“He’s bigger than us and there isn’t anything I can do about that,” defensive coordinator Tracy Claeys said. “I worry about him getting over the top of us. We’ll spend a lot of time trying to keep him in front of us.”
Illinois has played two quarterbacks recently, with freshman Reilly O’Toole and starter Nathan Scheelhaase getting some snaps. Zook said that he plans to use both players Saturday.
The Illini employ a three-pronged rushing attack with Scheelhaase and senior running backs Jason Ford and Troy Pollard. However, Illinois’ running game is only sixth in the Big Ten with 179 yards per game.
Although Saturday will be Minnesota’s last game, Kill said he hopes the seniors get a chance to end their careers on a high note.
“If I could have a Christmas list of giving somebody a gift, I’d love to see those seniors get a win on Saturday,” Kill said.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/23/gophers-conclude-2011-illinois
Seniors to be honored Saturday
The Gophers football team will celebrate Senior's Day at their last game this season.
Published: 2011-11-23
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The first year of the Jerry Kill era will come to a conclusion Saturday.
The season has developed into a rebuilding project for Kill and his staff, something the seniors seemingly embraced to help the future of the program.
Minnesota will honor 24 seniors Saturday, including long-time starters Duane Bennett, Chris Bunders, Anthony Jacobs, Brandon Kirksey, Da’Jon McKnight and Kim Royston.
Bennett has accumulated 2,082 rushing yards in his Gophers career, 13th on the school’s all-time list. He will hand the reigns of the running game off next year, but he said he hopes he has left a good impression on the remaining running backs on the roster.
Bennett reflected on his time at the University of Minnesota on Tuesday.
“I have mixed emotions. Excited. Bummed the ride is coming to an end,” Bennett said. “My biggest memory isn’t even on the football field. The camaraderie of my teammates, playing Madden and Call of Duty, having wing-eating contests and meeting all the different alums and telling stories — that’s my biggest memory.”
The remaining Gophers in the backfield are Donnell Kirkwood, David Cobb and Devon Wright along with LaMonte Edwards, who switched to play linebacker this season when the Gophers needed assistance on defense.
McKnight has been the Gophers’ biggest receiving threat since Eric Decker roamed the field for Minnesota. He is seventh all-time in receiving yards for the Gophers and has spread his knowledge to the younger players on the team like Marcus Jones and Devin Crawford-Tufts.
“Most of [young wide receivers] played this year. They’re going to be fine; they’ll have the same playbook and be comfortable with the system,” McKnight said. He was fraught with emotion after practice Tuesday.
“It’s kind of sad. It’s kind of getting to me,” McKnight said with a hesitation while he reflected.
Royston received a sixth year of eligibility this season when his medical hardship waiver was granted. He led the team with 110 tackles and was fourth overall in the Big Ten. Royston said he will go into Saturday’s game as if it were the Super Bowl.
“It’s a bittersweet feeling after not knowing if I would get this opportunity last year. There was a point last year when I thought my college career was over. This whole season was an extra blessing,” Royston said.
Royston has received his degree and is working toward his masters in sports management.
Senior Troy Stoudermire missed most of the season with a broken left arm and may receive a medical redshirt, which would allow him to return for a sixth season like Royston did this year.
Some of the seniors had to endure two coaching regime changes during their careers. They were recruited by Glen Mason, then had to adapt to Tim Brewster and now to Kill.
“It makes you doubt coaches and doubt what people say and not so much trust what people say. I’ve got genuine trust for coach Kill,” Kirksey said. “Some coaches promise certain kids certain things, and then theyleave. I was real happy when they did the extension on his time here.”
Bunders assisted in the growth of an extremely young offensive line rotation. He is graduating with a civil engineering degree in the spring. He said he believes the next crop of offensive lineman is in good hands but said going through the coaching changes made him a stronger player.
“It’s nice to be able to say that you’ve done all that. You can say you’re a versatile player because you’ve played in literally five or six different offenses,” Bunders said. “The new coaching staff with coach Kill, everything they have going on here is positive.”
Each senior has different goals that span from law school to the NFL, and those dreams will be confronted after Saturday’s game.
These seniors will leave the program while the start of a new foundation is laid. Several of them expressed their wish for the future success of the program under the guidance of the Kill regime.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/23/seniors-be-honored-saturday
Published: 2011-11-23
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The first year of the Jerry Kill era will come to a conclusion Saturday.
The season has developed into a rebuilding project for Kill and his staff, something the seniors seemingly embraced to help the future of the program.
Minnesota will honor 24 seniors Saturday, including long-time starters Duane Bennett, Chris Bunders, Anthony Jacobs, Brandon Kirksey, Da’Jon McKnight and Kim Royston.
Bennett has accumulated 2,082 rushing yards in his Gophers career, 13th on the school’s all-time list. He will hand the reigns of the running game off next year, but he said he hopes he has left a good impression on the remaining running backs on the roster.
Bennett reflected on his time at the University of Minnesota on Tuesday.
“I have mixed emotions. Excited. Bummed the ride is coming to an end,” Bennett said. “My biggest memory isn’t even on the football field. The camaraderie of my teammates, playing Madden and Call of Duty, having wing-eating contests and meeting all the different alums and telling stories — that’s my biggest memory.”
The remaining Gophers in the backfield are Donnell Kirkwood, David Cobb and Devon Wright along with LaMonte Edwards, who switched to play linebacker this season when the Gophers needed assistance on defense.
McKnight has been the Gophers’ biggest receiving threat since Eric Decker roamed the field for Minnesota. He is seventh all-time in receiving yards for the Gophers and has spread his knowledge to the younger players on the team like Marcus Jones and Devin Crawford-Tufts.
“Most of [young wide receivers] played this year. They’re going to be fine; they’ll have the same playbook and be comfortable with the system,” McKnight said. He was fraught with emotion after practice Tuesday.
“It’s kind of sad. It’s kind of getting to me,” McKnight said with a hesitation while he reflected.
Royston received a sixth year of eligibility this season when his medical hardship waiver was granted. He led the team with 110 tackles and was fourth overall in the Big Ten. Royston said he will go into Saturday’s game as if it were the Super Bowl.
“It’s a bittersweet feeling after not knowing if I would get this opportunity last year. There was a point last year when I thought my college career was over. This whole season was an extra blessing,” Royston said.
Royston has received his degree and is working toward his masters in sports management.
Senior Troy Stoudermire missed most of the season with a broken left arm and may receive a medical redshirt, which would allow him to return for a sixth season like Royston did this year.
Some of the seniors had to endure two coaching regime changes during their careers. They were recruited by Glen Mason, then had to adapt to Tim Brewster and now to Kill.
“It makes you doubt coaches and doubt what people say and not so much trust what people say. I’ve got genuine trust for coach Kill,” Kirksey said. “Some coaches promise certain kids certain things, and then theyleave. I was real happy when they did the extension on his time here.”
Bunders assisted in the growth of an extremely young offensive line rotation. He is graduating with a civil engineering degree in the spring. He said he believes the next crop of offensive lineman is in good hands but said going through the coaching changes made him a stronger player.
“It’s nice to be able to say that you’ve done all that. You can say you’re a versatile player because you’ve played in literally five or six different offenses,” Bunders said. “The new coaching staff with coach Kill, everything they have going on here is positive.”
Each senior has different goals that span from law school to the NFL, and those dreams will be confronted after Saturday’s game.
These seniors will leave the program while the start of a new foundation is laid. Several of them expressed their wish for the future success of the program under the guidance of the Kill regime.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/23/seniors-be-honored-saturday
Minnesota heads to California for St. Mary’s Hilton tournament
Minnesota faces Quinnipiac on Friday night in Moraga, Calif.
Published: 2011-11-23
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team travels to California this weekend for the St. Mary’s Hilton Tournament. The Gophers will face Quinnipiac on Friday night to open the tournament and play in either the consolation or championship game Saturday.
Head coach Pam Borton said she feels good about the way the team is playing headed into the weekend tournament.
This will be the Gophers’ second time playing a weekend tournament on the road. The first tournament, the Women’s Basketball Invitational Tip Off Classic in Daytona Beach, Fla., left them with a 1-2 record.
The team improved to 3-2 with home wins over Binghamton and North Dakota State on Nov. 19 and 20.
Borton said defense will be the key to success this weekend.
“When you go on the road and have a good defense, you can play anywhere,” Borton said.
Freshman point guard Rachel Banham will play in her second road tournament and the team hopes for her continued development.
“Every game I feel more comfortable,” Banham said. “I don’t really have time to take my time and say ‘next game.’”
She has been most effective in transition, running up and down the floor and using her speed.
“That’s the way we want to play: Feed off our defense and score in transition,” Borton said. “We want to run as much as possible.”
Borton said that senior Kiara Buford and Banham have a high level of confidence that helps the team.
“When they are playing well and playing intense, they are setting the tone for this team,” Borton said. “Everybody is confident because of them.”
Buford has been the Gophers’ most consistent player. She has scored in double figures in every game this season while filling the stat sheet in rebounds, assists and steals.
Minnesota improved its shooting percentage to 42 percent in both the Binghamton and North Dakota State games.
Now, Minnesota will try to improve its record to 5-2 before going on a tough stretch of games. The Gophers have an away game against Wake Forest and a home game against No. 1 Baylor next week.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/23/minnesota-heads-california-st-mary’s-hilton-tournament
Published: 2011-11-23
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team travels to California this weekend for the St. Mary’s Hilton Tournament. The Gophers will face Quinnipiac on Friday night to open the tournament and play in either the consolation or championship game Saturday.
Head coach Pam Borton said she feels good about the way the team is playing headed into the weekend tournament.
This will be the Gophers’ second time playing a weekend tournament on the road. The first tournament, the Women’s Basketball Invitational Tip Off Classic in Daytona Beach, Fla., left them with a 1-2 record.
The team improved to 3-2 with home wins over Binghamton and North Dakota State on Nov. 19 and 20.
Borton said defense will be the key to success this weekend.
“When you go on the road and have a good defense, you can play anywhere,” Borton said.
Freshman point guard Rachel Banham will play in her second road tournament and the team hopes for her continued development.
“Every game I feel more comfortable,” Banham said. “I don’t really have time to take my time and say ‘next game.’”
She has been most effective in transition, running up and down the floor and using her speed.
“That’s the way we want to play: Feed off our defense and score in transition,” Borton said. “We want to run as much as possible.”
Borton said that senior Kiara Buford and Banham have a high level of confidence that helps the team.
“When they are playing well and playing intense, they are setting the tone for this team,” Borton said. “Everybody is confident because of them.”
Buford has been the Gophers’ most consistent player. She has scored in double figures in every game this season while filling the stat sheet in rebounds, assists and steals.
Minnesota improved its shooting percentage to 42 percent in both the Binghamton and North Dakota State games.
Now, Minnesota will try to improve its record to 5-2 before going on a tough stretch of games. The Gophers have an away game against Wake Forest and a home game against No. 1 Baylor next week.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/23/minnesota-heads-california-st-mary’s-hilton-tournament
Mistakes doom Gophers on the road
Minnesota rushed for 269 yards but lost 28-13 at Northwestern.
Published: 2011-11-21
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
EVANSTON, Ill. — Minnesota fell to 1-6 in conference play Saturday with a 28-13 road loss to Northwestern. The Gophers had numerous opportunities but costly turnovers in the second half led to their defeat.
Minnesota’s defense played well and created a lot of pressure on Wildcats’ quarterback Dan Persa, including two sacks and two turnovers. But Minnesota’s offense wasn’t able to take advantage of the fortune.
“We played well enough to win the game — we just didn’t make enough plays offensively,” head coach Jerry Kill said. “We moved the ball but didn’t make a few critical plays.”
Senior Duane Bennett, playing in his final road game for the Gophers, fumbled deep in Northwestern territory in the third quarter. MarQueis Gray threw an interception on a tipped ball in the end zone on a long third-quarter drive, too, and Minnesota wasn’t able to recover.
“We did some good things, but we also dropped some balls in critical moments and turned it over in critical moments,” Kill said. “You can’t do that and win.”
Persa threw for 216 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. He led Northwestern, in front of a half-full stadium, to its fourth straight victory. The win made the Wildcats bowl-eligible.
By the fourth quarter, Northwestern’s no-huddle offense proved to be too quick for Minnesota’s defense. The Gophers couldn’t substitute lineman quick enough to defend and Northwestern added a touchdown to their lead in the final quarter while running out the clock.
Gray finished the day with 124 yards passing, no touchdowns and one interception. He did have success running, with 147 yards and a touchdown.
“It was a take-what-they-give-us [performance],” Gray said. “They gave us the run.”
Northwestern head coach Pat Fitzgerald said he was impressed with Gray’s running abilities.
“We gave up over 100 yards on broken plays. I’m not going to lose sleep over that. I’d like guys to tackle obviously, but he’s 6’4” and 250 pounds. The kid’s a great football player,” Fitzgerald said.
Gray (147) and Bennett (127) each had more than 100 yards rushing — the first time Minnesota had two rushers break the century mark since 2006.
Bennett reached 2,000 rush yards for his Gophers career, the first to do so since Amir Pinnix in 2007.
“It’s definitely a milestone. It’s something I’m proud to accomplish. I would’ve taken the win any day,” Bennett said. “The record in general I give to my front five, my receivers, my quarterback, my coaches.”
The Gophers gained 269 yards on the ground, but that didn’t amount to many points, as Minnesota committed mistake after mistake late in its drives.
“You rush for over 200 yards and you should win the football game,” Kill said.
Malcolm Moulton dropped two potential touchdown catches on routes up the seam, and Da’Jon McKnight dropped a would-be touchdown catch in the end zone.
The Gophers had only 10 men on the field for two consecutive plays when Northwestern scored its second touchdown on a 28-yard fade from Persa to Demetrius Fields. Kill said that there was an injured player, some miscommunication and he couldn’t get the timeout called in time against the Wildcat hurry-up offense.
Senior Kim Royston racked up 17 tackles on defense and also nabbed an interception.
“Our [defensive] line played a hell of a game. I greatly appreciate that. Anytime they get pressure on the quarterback, a lot of good things happen on the back end,” Royston said.
Northwestern started the game with a 44-yard kickoff return by Venric Mark that jump-started the Wildcats’ offense. The Wildcats finished with a touchdown to take an early 7-0 lead.
Northwestern continued its success on special teams by starting the next two drives in Minnesota territory and both ended with touchdowns. Northwestern led 21-7 at the end of the first quarter before the Gophers steadied the ship — they surrendered just seven more points the final three quarters.
The Gophers were only able to score one touchdown despite 393 yards of total offense, Northwestern’s 28 points came off 368 yards of offense.
“I feel like our offense did great in the stats, but stats don’t matter if you don’t finish,” Gray said. “That’s something we should’ve done. If we would’ve done that, we would’ve had a different outcome.”
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/21/mistakes-doom-gophers-road
Published: 2011-11-21
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
EVANSTON, Ill. — Minnesota fell to 1-6 in conference play Saturday with a 28-13 road loss to Northwestern. The Gophers had numerous opportunities but costly turnovers in the second half led to their defeat.
Minnesota’s defense played well and created a lot of pressure on Wildcats’ quarterback Dan Persa, including two sacks and two turnovers. But Minnesota’s offense wasn’t able to take advantage of the fortune.
“We played well enough to win the game — we just didn’t make enough plays offensively,” head coach Jerry Kill said. “We moved the ball but didn’t make a few critical plays.”
Senior Duane Bennett, playing in his final road game for the Gophers, fumbled deep in Northwestern territory in the third quarter. MarQueis Gray threw an interception on a tipped ball in the end zone on a long third-quarter drive, too, and Minnesota wasn’t able to recover.
“We did some good things, but we also dropped some balls in critical moments and turned it over in critical moments,” Kill said. “You can’t do that and win.”
Persa threw for 216 yards, two touchdowns and an interception. He led Northwestern, in front of a half-full stadium, to its fourth straight victory. The win made the Wildcats bowl-eligible.
By the fourth quarter, Northwestern’s no-huddle offense proved to be too quick for Minnesota’s defense. The Gophers couldn’t substitute lineman quick enough to defend and Northwestern added a touchdown to their lead in the final quarter while running out the clock.
Gray finished the day with 124 yards passing, no touchdowns and one interception. He did have success running, with 147 yards and a touchdown.
“It was a take-what-they-give-us [performance],” Gray said. “They gave us the run.”
Northwestern head coach Pat Fitzgerald said he was impressed with Gray’s running abilities.
“We gave up over 100 yards on broken plays. I’m not going to lose sleep over that. I’d like guys to tackle obviously, but he’s 6’4” and 250 pounds. The kid’s a great football player,” Fitzgerald said.
Gray (147) and Bennett (127) each had more than 100 yards rushing — the first time Minnesota had two rushers break the century mark since 2006.
Bennett reached 2,000 rush yards for his Gophers career, the first to do so since Amir Pinnix in 2007.
“It’s definitely a milestone. It’s something I’m proud to accomplish. I would’ve taken the win any day,” Bennett said. “The record in general I give to my front five, my receivers, my quarterback, my coaches.”
The Gophers gained 269 yards on the ground, but that didn’t amount to many points, as Minnesota committed mistake after mistake late in its drives.
“You rush for over 200 yards and you should win the football game,” Kill said.
Malcolm Moulton dropped two potential touchdown catches on routes up the seam, and Da’Jon McKnight dropped a would-be touchdown catch in the end zone.
The Gophers had only 10 men on the field for two consecutive plays when Northwestern scored its second touchdown on a 28-yard fade from Persa to Demetrius Fields. Kill said that there was an injured player, some miscommunication and he couldn’t get the timeout called in time against the Wildcat hurry-up offense.
Senior Kim Royston racked up 17 tackles on defense and also nabbed an interception.
“Our [defensive] line played a hell of a game. I greatly appreciate that. Anytime they get pressure on the quarterback, a lot of good things happen on the back end,” Royston said.
Northwestern started the game with a 44-yard kickoff return by Venric Mark that jump-started the Wildcats’ offense. The Wildcats finished with a touchdown to take an early 7-0 lead.
Northwestern continued its success on special teams by starting the next two drives in Minnesota territory and both ended with touchdowns. Northwestern led 21-7 at the end of the first quarter before the Gophers steadied the ship — they surrendered just seven more points the final three quarters.
The Gophers were only able to score one touchdown despite 393 yards of total offense, Northwestern’s 28 points came off 368 yards of offense.
“I feel like our offense did great in the stats, but stats don’t matter if you don’t finish,” Gray said. “That’s something we should’ve done. If we would’ve done that, we would’ve had a different outcome.”
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/21/mistakes-doom-gophers-road
Gophers win Subway Classic Tournament
Minnesota held opponents Binghamton and NDSU to 81 points on the weekend.
Published: 2011-11-21
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com Charlie Armitz carmitz@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team defeated North Dakota State 80-41 on Sunday in the Subway Classic championship and improved to 3-2 on the season.
Minnesota dominated the glass, forced 26 turnovers and played tough defense in the lopsided championship win.
The Gophers defeated Binghamton 65-40 on Saturday behind Sari Noga’s hot shooting to propel them to Sunday’s title game.
“I’m really happy with where we’re at,” Borton said after Sunday’s win. “I think we have a team that isn’t going to settle. We have a team that has bought in.”
In the win over NDSU, Minnesota went on a 21-0 run that lasted nearly 10 minutes to jump-start the team to a 39-16 lead at halftime. That allowed the Gophers to put the game in cruise control in the second half.
Freshman Rachel Banham played inconsistently on Saturday but showed flashes of her abilities Sunday. She scored 23 points and had 17 rebounds for the tournament. She was most effective in transition and showed room for improvement in her half-court game.
“She needs to work through some things,” Borton said. “I think she’s doing a great job. She’s pushing tempo and keeping our team playing fast, and that’s what we want to do.”
Kiara Buford only shot 7-for-20 on the weekend but had nine rebounds, six assists and eight steals. Buford has scored in double digits in every game this season and was named the Subway Classic Tournament MVP.
Minnesota used its size advantage over the weekend to out-rebound its opponents 101-76. The Gophers also shot 41 percent during the tournament — an improvement from last weekend.
“Obviously, our offense has a long ways to go — it usually does this time of the year,” Borton said. “Our defense and our rebounding is way ahead of our offense, and we’ve got a lot of work to do [on offense].”
Noga was the highlight Saturday, when she scored 16 points and shot 7-for-13. She followed that up with an 11-point performance Sunday that included some intense defense.
“I think I brought some toughness. It was just something we needed today,” Noga said after Saturday’s win. “I was more aggressive compared to last weekend in taking the ball to the basket and learning to finish a little bit better. [I got] my confidence up by getting some shots in the lane.”
The Bison only shot 26 percent Sunday night. A small student group heckled North Dakota loudly throughout the game, and their chants grew with each missed shot.
Minnesota allowed the Bison 12 offensive rebounds, but that was 10 fewer than the Gophers’ total of 22.
The victories were a team effort with significant contributions inside from Katie Loberg and drives from the perimeter by Leah Cotton. Minnesota’s bench scored 49 points, 34 of which came Sunday.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/21/gophers-win-subway-classic-tournament
Published: 2011-11-21
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com Charlie Armitz carmitz@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team defeated North Dakota State 80-41 on Sunday in the Subway Classic championship and improved to 3-2 on the season.
Minnesota dominated the glass, forced 26 turnovers and played tough defense in the lopsided championship win.
The Gophers defeated Binghamton 65-40 on Saturday behind Sari Noga’s hot shooting to propel them to Sunday’s title game.
“I’m really happy with where we’re at,” Borton said after Sunday’s win. “I think we have a team that isn’t going to settle. We have a team that has bought in.”
In the win over NDSU, Minnesota went on a 21-0 run that lasted nearly 10 minutes to jump-start the team to a 39-16 lead at halftime. That allowed the Gophers to put the game in cruise control in the second half.
Freshman Rachel Banham played inconsistently on Saturday but showed flashes of her abilities Sunday. She scored 23 points and had 17 rebounds for the tournament. She was most effective in transition and showed room for improvement in her half-court game.
“She needs to work through some things,” Borton said. “I think she’s doing a great job. She’s pushing tempo and keeping our team playing fast, and that’s what we want to do.”
Kiara Buford only shot 7-for-20 on the weekend but had nine rebounds, six assists and eight steals. Buford has scored in double digits in every game this season and was named the Subway Classic Tournament MVP.
Minnesota used its size advantage over the weekend to out-rebound its opponents 101-76. The Gophers also shot 41 percent during the tournament — an improvement from last weekend.
“Obviously, our offense has a long ways to go — it usually does this time of the year,” Borton said. “Our defense and our rebounding is way ahead of our offense, and we’ve got a lot of work to do [on offense].”
Noga was the highlight Saturday, when she scored 16 points and shot 7-for-13. She followed that up with an 11-point performance Sunday that included some intense defense.
“I think I brought some toughness. It was just something we needed today,” Noga said after Saturday’s win. “I was more aggressive compared to last weekend in taking the ball to the basket and learning to finish a little bit better. [I got] my confidence up by getting some shots in the lane.”
The Bison only shot 26 percent Sunday night. A small student group heckled North Dakota loudly throughout the game, and their chants grew with each missed shot.
Minnesota allowed the Bison 12 offensive rebounds, but that was 10 fewer than the Gophers’ total of 22.
The victories were a team effort with significant contributions inside from Katie Loberg and drives from the perimeter by Leah Cotton. Minnesota’s bench scored 49 points, 34 of which came Sunday.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/21/gophers-win-subway-classic-tournament
Mistakes doom Gophers on the road
Minnesota lost to Northwestern in Evanston, 28-13.
Published: 2011-11-19
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
EVANSTON, Ill. -- Minnesota fell to 1-6 Saturday with a road loss to Northwestern 28-13. The Gophers had numerous opportunities, but costly turnovers in the second half led to their defeat.
In the third quarter, senior Duane Bennett, in his final road game for the Gophers, fumbled deep in Northwestern territory. MarQueis Gray threw an interception on a tipped ball in the end zone on the next drive as well and Minnesota wasn’t able to recover.
The Gophers’ defense played well and created a lot of pressure on Wildcats’ quarterback Dan Persa. The defense tallied two sacks and also had two turnovers, but Minnesota’s offense wasn’t able to take advantage of the fortune.
By the fourth quarter, Northwestern’s no-huddle offense proved to be too quick for Minnesota’s defense, which appeared tired. The Gophers couldn’t get linemen out in time to defend and Northwestern added a touchdown to its lead in the final quarter while running out the clock.
Gray (147 yards) and Bennett (127) each had more than 100 yards rushing in the game. It was the first time Minnesota had two rushers record more than 100 yards since 2006.
The Gophers gained 269 yards on the ground, but that didn’t amount to many points because they committed mistake after mistake late in their drives.
Malcolm Moulton dropped two potential touchdown catches on routes up the seam and Da’Jon McKnight dropped a would-be touchdown catch in the end zone. Minnesota had two costly turnovers.
Senior Kim Royston racked up 17 tackles on defense and also nabbed an interception.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/19/mistakes-doom-gophers-road
Mon Nov 28 2011
Published: 2011-11-19
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
EVANSTON, Ill. -- Minnesota fell to 1-6 Saturday with a road loss to Northwestern 28-13. The Gophers had numerous opportunities, but costly turnovers in the second half led to their defeat.
In the third quarter, senior Duane Bennett, in his final road game for the Gophers, fumbled deep in Northwestern territory. MarQueis Gray threw an interception on a tipped ball in the end zone on the next drive as well and Minnesota wasn’t able to recover.
The Gophers’ defense played well and created a lot of pressure on Wildcats’ quarterback Dan Persa. The defense tallied two sacks and also had two turnovers, but Minnesota’s offense wasn’t able to take advantage of the fortune.
By the fourth quarter, Northwestern’s no-huddle offense proved to be too quick for Minnesota’s defense, which appeared tired. The Gophers couldn’t get linemen out in time to defend and Northwestern added a touchdown to its lead in the final quarter while running out the clock.
Gray (147 yards) and Bennett (127) each had more than 100 yards rushing in the game. It was the first time Minnesota had two rushers record more than 100 yards since 2006.
The Gophers gained 269 yards on the ground, but that didn’t amount to many points because they committed mistake after mistake late in their drives.
Malcolm Moulton dropped two potential touchdown catches on routes up the seam and Da’Jon McKnight dropped a would-be touchdown catch in the end zone. Minnesota had two costly turnovers.
Senior Kim Royston racked up 17 tackles on defense and also nabbed an interception.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/19/mistakes-doom-gophers-road
Mon Nov 28 2011
Gophers open at home with Binghamton in Subway Classic
Minnesota will play in the final Sunday if it wins.
Published: 2011-11-17
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Minnesota women’s basketball team will play its first regular season home game this weekend against Binghamton University in the Subway Classic tournament.
The winner of Saturday’s game will play at 3 p.m. Sunday at Williams Arena.
Head coach Pam Borton said all of her players will be healthy and available for Saturday’s game.
The Gophers played to a 1-2 record in last week’s opening WBI Tipoff in Daytona Beach, Fla. Minnesota won its opener against Arkansas on Friday, but dropped the next two games over the weekend.
“This is one of the best opening-season tournaments you can play in,” Borton said of the WBI Tipoff. “We learned a lot of positive things about our team. Our work ethic and the intensity level that we carried for 40 minutes for three days in a row was unbelievable.”
Binghamton currently has a 2-0 record and had a 19-12 record last season. It posted good defensive numbers in 2010-11, including a 35.1 opposing field-goal percentage, which ranked 15th in the nation.
That may be a tough matchup given the Gophers shot only 34.7 percent over their first three games, including 26.8 percent against South Florida.
“Our shooting percentages have got to be better in a lot of areas,” Borton said. “In the post, 3-point shooting percentage, our free throw shooting percentage.”
Senior combo guard Kiara Buford led the Gophers in their first three games and is expected to be an on-court leader for Minnesota this season. She will be relaying information specifically to freshman point guard Rachel Banham.
“I tried to talk to [Banham] the whole time,” Buford said. “You learn as you progress. It’s something I’ve had to learn, is how to score with contact, draw fouls, do other things when shots aren’t falling.”
Banham started the weekend well, shooting 6-for-14 for 15 points Friday, but only shot 6-for-31 the rest of the weekend.
“My legs were very worn out by the end,” Banham said. “But with my shooting — I just need to keep working on my shot, keep getting in the gym, getting extra shots up to make it more consistent.”
Banham’s ball handling ability was on display in the team’s first three games. Borton said she was impressed by Banham’s lack of turnovers and ability to take care of the ball.
“I was very, very proud of Rachel,” Borton said. “She’s playing three tougher games than any freshman in the country. She doesn’t get a chance to get her feet wet. I think she did outstanding, and I think she learned a lot about herself.”
Junior forward Katie Loberg led the team with 21 rebounds over the first three games, but shot only 7-for-21 on the weekend.
Banham will play her first regular season game in front of a hometown crowd this weekend, and Borton said Banham isn’t the only one who is glad to be back in Minneapolis.
“This is a comfort zone for them. To be able to play in the Barn — in front of their family and friends — should be exciting,” Borton said.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/17/gophers-open-home-binghamton-subway-classic
Published: 2011-11-17
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Minnesota women’s basketball team will play its first regular season home game this weekend against Binghamton University in the Subway Classic tournament.
The winner of Saturday’s game will play at 3 p.m. Sunday at Williams Arena.
Head coach Pam Borton said all of her players will be healthy and available for Saturday’s game.
The Gophers played to a 1-2 record in last week’s opening WBI Tipoff in Daytona Beach, Fla. Minnesota won its opener against Arkansas on Friday, but dropped the next two games over the weekend.
“This is one of the best opening-season tournaments you can play in,” Borton said of the WBI Tipoff. “We learned a lot of positive things about our team. Our work ethic and the intensity level that we carried for 40 minutes for three days in a row was unbelievable.”
Binghamton currently has a 2-0 record and had a 19-12 record last season. It posted good defensive numbers in 2010-11, including a 35.1 opposing field-goal percentage, which ranked 15th in the nation.
That may be a tough matchup given the Gophers shot only 34.7 percent over their first three games, including 26.8 percent against South Florida.
“Our shooting percentages have got to be better in a lot of areas,” Borton said. “In the post, 3-point shooting percentage, our free throw shooting percentage.”
Senior combo guard Kiara Buford led the Gophers in their first three games and is expected to be an on-court leader for Minnesota this season. She will be relaying information specifically to freshman point guard Rachel Banham.
“I tried to talk to [Banham] the whole time,” Buford said. “You learn as you progress. It’s something I’ve had to learn, is how to score with contact, draw fouls, do other things when shots aren’t falling.”
Banham started the weekend well, shooting 6-for-14 for 15 points Friday, but only shot 6-for-31 the rest of the weekend.
“My legs were very worn out by the end,” Banham said. “But with my shooting — I just need to keep working on my shot, keep getting in the gym, getting extra shots up to make it more consistent.”
Banham’s ball handling ability was on display in the team’s first three games. Borton said she was impressed by Banham’s lack of turnovers and ability to take care of the ball.
“I was very, very proud of Rachel,” Borton said. “She’s playing three tougher games than any freshman in the country. She doesn’t get a chance to get her feet wet. I think she did outstanding, and I think she learned a lot about herself.”
Junior forward Katie Loberg led the team with 21 rebounds over the first three games, but shot only 7-for-21 on the weekend.
Banham will play her first regular season game in front of a hometown crowd this weekend, and Borton said Banham isn’t the only one who is glad to be back in Minneapolis.
“This is a comfort zone for them. To be able to play in the Barn — in front of their family and friends — should be exciting,” Borton said.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/17/gophers-open-home-binghamton-subway-classic
Quick hitters
Published: 2011-11-17
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
•MarQueis Gray played against Wisconsin with a hurt back, an injury he sustained against Michigan State. Gray took full reps at practice this week.
“It feels a lot better, a lot better than last week,” Gray said. “It limited my reps [last week] and going into the game I wasn’t fully confident in myself because of the back injury. I plan on taking every rep this week and regain that confidence.”
Gray had his worst statistical performance of the year last week against Wisconsin. He threw for 51 yards and an interception only a week after his career-best performance against Michigan State, when he threw for 295 yards and three touchdowns.
•Northwestern is second-worst in the Big Ten in pass defense, allowing 235 yards per game through the air.
•Minnesota has been stymied in the running game the last two weeks.
“We’re getting back to fundamentals, kind of what we did leading up to that nice run [of good games],” offensive coordinator Matt Limegrover said.
Northwestern ranks ninth in the Big Ten in rushing defense, allowing 179 yards per game on the ground.
•Northwestern quarterback Dan Persa, a senior, has thrown for more than 1,700 yards in only seven games this season, including a 372-yard performance with four touchdowns last week against Rice.
•The Wildcats’ sophomore backup quarterback, Kain Colter, has been a multi-level threat on offense. He leads the team in rushing, is second in passing and is third in receiving with 15 touchdowns overall this season.
•Led by Persa and Colter, Northwestern is first in the Big Ten in passing offense.
•The Gophers’ pass rush has steadily improved. Minnesota sacked Russell Wilson twice last week despite an enormous Badgers offensive line.
That brought its total to 12 sacks on the year, four more than all of last year.
•Northwestern’s offense runs a lot of no-huddle. This system of offense often causes defenses to remain on the field for numerous series of downs without substitutions.
•The Gophers were unable to score an offensive touchdown last week. Their only two scores were on special teams.
•Duane Bennett gave the team a jolt last week when he returned a kickoff 96 yards for a touchdown. He is averaging 31 yards per return this season.
Bennett, a fifth year senior, now has a kickoff return, punt return, rushing, receiving and passing touchdown during his career at Minnesota.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/17/quick-hitters
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
•MarQueis Gray played against Wisconsin with a hurt back, an injury he sustained against Michigan State. Gray took full reps at practice this week.
“It feels a lot better, a lot better than last week,” Gray said. “It limited my reps [last week] and going into the game I wasn’t fully confident in myself because of the back injury. I plan on taking every rep this week and regain that confidence.”
Gray had his worst statistical performance of the year last week against Wisconsin. He threw for 51 yards and an interception only a week after his career-best performance against Michigan State, when he threw for 295 yards and three touchdowns.
•Northwestern is second-worst in the Big Ten in pass defense, allowing 235 yards per game through the air.
•Minnesota has been stymied in the running game the last two weeks.
“We’re getting back to fundamentals, kind of what we did leading up to that nice run [of good games],” offensive coordinator Matt Limegrover said.
Northwestern ranks ninth in the Big Ten in rushing defense, allowing 179 yards per game on the ground.
•Northwestern quarterback Dan Persa, a senior, has thrown for more than 1,700 yards in only seven games this season, including a 372-yard performance with four touchdowns last week against Rice.
•The Wildcats’ sophomore backup quarterback, Kain Colter, has been a multi-level threat on offense. He leads the team in rushing, is second in passing and is third in receiving with 15 touchdowns overall this season.
•Led by Persa and Colter, Northwestern is first in the Big Ten in passing offense.
•The Gophers’ pass rush has steadily improved. Minnesota sacked Russell Wilson twice last week despite an enormous Badgers offensive line.
That brought its total to 12 sacks on the year, four more than all of last year.
•Northwestern’s offense runs a lot of no-huddle. This system of offense often causes defenses to remain on the field for numerous series of downs without substitutions.
•The Gophers were unable to score an offensive touchdown last week. Their only two scores were on special teams.
•Duane Bennett gave the team a jolt last week when he returned a kickoff 96 yards for a touchdown. He is averaging 31 yards per return this season.
Bennett, a fifth year senior, now has a kickoff return, punt return, rushing, receiving and passing touchdown during his career at Minnesota.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/17/quick-hitters
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
A constant state of flux
Young hodgepodge group of offensive lineman has been thrust into game action.
Published: 2011-11-16
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Big Ten is known for power running games behind massive offensive lines. This formula has worked well for Wisconsin, Iowa and Michigan for years, but the Gophers have struggled in that regard since Laurence Maroney, Marion Barber III and Gary Russell left.
During the Glen Mason era, Minnesota had athletic system blockers, led by All-Americans Mark Setterstrom, Ben Hamilton and Greg Eslinger. Since then, the Gophers offensive line has been in constant flux.
Even by those standards, this season has been tumultuous. Head coach Jerry Kill and offensive coordinator Matt Limegrover have had to mix and match their front line.
“In all the years coach Limegrover’s been with me this may be his best coaching job, because not very many people can have a different offensive line every week and have some continuity,” Kill said.
The Gophers have had a different starting offensive line group in four of their 10 games this season, while having to make many in-game substitutions due to injuries.
These holes along the line have been plugged with undersized underclassmen. Some of them have experienced growing pains on the field.
“I think that I could take a whole group full of them from the Olsons, Lenkiewiczes — all those young offensive linemen, they’re all playing, they’re all young. I mean, everybody is young up in the offensive line except for two kids right now,” Kill said.
The linemen who have sustained injuries are: Jimmy Gjere (head), Josh Campion (head), Ed Olson (quadriceps), Tommy Olson (ankle) and Zach Mottla (head).
The injuries have been only part of the shift on the offensive line. Inconsistent play has forced Kill and Limegrover to bring in fresh bodies able to execute their offensive schemes.
In total, they’ve used 10 different offensive linemen so far this season.
Senior Chris Bunders has been the only constant on the line, but he has had to shift from his natural position of left guard to right tackle since Gjere sustained a concussion in early October.
“It’s fun. I like the challenge being able to play tackle and guard,” Bunders said. “A lot of guys have been able to step up and fill in when we’ve needed it. We have a great coach that comes out and teaches everybody, not just the starters — everybody.”
Two of those young players that have stepped up and filled in are redshirt freshmen Caleb Bak and Zac Epping. Epping has started the last six games at right guard, while Bak just entered the lineup at left guard two games ago after Tommy Olson hurt his ankle.
“[The coaches] do a good job preparing you and preparing the backups. You get in there and you’re ready to play,” Bak said.
Kill had high praises for Bak in his Nov. 1 press conference.
“It’s an amazing story,” Kill said. “When you’ve got a young man, Caleb Bak, who hasn’t been playing at all and not getting a lot of practice reps and he plays for three quarters and finds a way to get it done and you’re able to protect the passer and give him time. It’s really kind of an amazing deal.”
The Gophers’ offensive line has played through some of its injuries as well. Ed Olson had to yield to Marek Lenkiewicz because of a quad injury but returned the next game to start.
“We don’t treat it like someone is a new guy. We always practice together, we’re in film together, we all treat each other like we’re all on the first line, and that makes it a nice transition,” Ed Olson said.
Olson’s younger brother, Tommy, came to Minnesota a year after his brother Ed. He is one of the freshmen getting time on the field, and he said he is enjoying the opportunity to line up next to his brother.
“It’s a dream come true. We talked about it all the time — middle school, high school, now here. We’ve always talked about coming here and playing next to each other. It’s something we’ll remember for the rest of our lives,” Tommy Olson said.
Each of the players — even the younger group — has to prepare each week as though they will play. The coaching staff hasn’t had the luxury of being able to redshirt most of the younger players. Many of them could use that year to build up proper muscle for the Big Ten in an ideal situation.
Limegrover has had the task of preparing all his players to get into game action against more experienced Big Ten competition.
“You try to get guys ready at multiple positions, you try to get the guys you have in there comfortable with each other,” Limegrover said. “I’m just trying to get a group out to practice each day and make it to Saturday.”
Minnesota does have a handful of young players who are getting time to develop off the field including another pair of brothers. Kyle and Luke McAvoy will most likely be redshirted along with a small handful of others.
The Gophers also have commitments from two highly-touted high school prospects: Isaac Hayes, who is an ESPN top-150 recruit, and 6-foot-8-inch, 300-pound Jonah Pirsig from Blue Earth, Minn.
The group will in all likelihood continue to have fluctuations in its play, but is also gaining game experience playing at a Division I level against some of the most talented players in the nation.
All content © 1900 - 2011
ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/16/constant-state-flux
Published: 2011-11-16
Adam Richard arichard@mndaily.com
The Big Ten is known for power running games behind massive offensive lines. This formula has worked well for Wisconsin, Iowa and Michigan for years, but the Gophers have struggled in that regard since Laurence Maroney, Marion Barber III and Gary Russell left.
During the Glen Mason era, Minnesota had athletic system blockers, led by All-Americans Mark Setterstrom, Ben Hamilton and Greg Eslinger. Since then, the Gophers offensive line has been in constant flux.
Even by those standards, this season has been tumultuous. Head coach Jerry Kill and offensive coordinator Matt Limegrover have had to mix and match their front line.
“In all the years coach Limegrover’s been with me this may be his best coaching job, because not very many people can have a different offensive line every week and have some continuity,” Kill said.
The Gophers have had a different starting offensive line group in four of their 10 games this season, while having to make many in-game substitutions due to injuries.
These holes along the line have been plugged with undersized underclassmen. Some of them have experienced growing pains on the field.
“I think that I could take a whole group full of them from the Olsons, Lenkiewiczes — all those young offensive linemen, they’re all playing, they’re all young. I mean, everybody is young up in the offensive line except for two kids right now,” Kill said.
The linemen who have sustained injuries are: Jimmy Gjere (head), Josh Campion (head), Ed Olson (quadriceps), Tommy Olson (ankle) and Zach Mottla (head).
The injuries have been only part of the shift on the offensive line. Inconsistent play has forced Kill and Limegrover to bring in fresh bodies able to execute their offensive schemes.
In total, they’ve used 10 different offensive linemen so far this season.
Senior Chris Bunders has been the only constant on the line, but he has had to shift from his natural position of left guard to right tackle since Gjere sustained a concussion in early October.
“It’s fun. I like the challenge being able to play tackle and guard,” Bunders said. “A lot of guys have been able to step up and fill in when we’ve needed it. We have a great coach that comes out and teaches everybody, not just the starters — everybody.”
Two of those young players that have stepped up and filled in are redshirt freshmen Caleb Bak and Zac Epping. Epping has started the last six games at right guard, while Bak just entered the lineup at left guard two games ago after Tommy Olson hurt his ankle.
“[The coaches] do a good job preparing you and preparing the backups. You get in there and you’re ready to play,” Bak said.
Kill had high praises for Bak in his Nov. 1 press conference.
“It’s an amazing story,” Kill said. “When you’ve got a young man, Caleb Bak, who hasn’t been playing at all and not getting a lot of practice reps and he plays for three quarters and finds a way to get it done and you’re able to protect the passer and give him time. It’s really kind of an amazing deal.”
The Gophers’ offensive line has played through some of its injuries as well. Ed Olson had to yield to Marek Lenkiewicz because of a quad injury but returned the next game to start.
“We don’t treat it like someone is a new guy. We always practice together, we’re in film together, we all treat each other like we’re all on the first line, and that makes it a nice transition,” Ed Olson said.
Olson’s younger brother, Tommy, came to Minnesota a year after his brother Ed. He is one of the freshmen getting time on the field, and he said he is enjoying the opportunity to line up next to his brother.
“It’s a dream come true. We talked about it all the time — middle school, high school, now here. We’ve always talked about coming here and playing next to each other. It’s something we’ll remember for the rest of our lives,” Tommy Olson said.
Each of the players — even the younger group — has to prepare each week as though they will play. The coaching staff hasn’t had the luxury of being able to redshirt most of the younger players. Many of them could use that year to build up proper muscle for the Big Ten in an ideal situation.
Limegrover has had the task of preparing all his players to get into game action against more experienced Big Ten competition.
“You try to get guys ready at multiple positions, you try to get the guys you have in there comfortable with each other,” Limegrover said. “I’m just trying to get a group out to practice each day and make it to Saturday.”
Minnesota does have a handful of young players who are getting time to develop off the field including another pair of brothers. Kyle and Luke McAvoy will most likely be redshirted along with a small handful of others.
The Gophers also have commitments from two highly-touted high school prospects: Isaac Hayes, who is an ESPN top-150 recruit, and 6-foot-8-inch, 300-pound Jonah Pirsig from Blue Earth, Minn.
The group will in all likelihood continue to have fluctuations in its play, but is also gaining game experience playing at a Division I level against some of the most talented players in the nation.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/16/constant-state-flux
Monday, November 14, 2011
Penn State deserves the NCAA death penalty
The alleged criminal activity by Jerry Sandusky and the situation at Pennsylvania State University transcends football, however, the football program’s involvement should not be dismissed while the country is tuned to the criminal case in disgust.
More facts will be released as this scandal unfolds through reports and testimony over the next months, but the facts that have already been released in regards to this alleged case warrant the NCAA death penalty.
Precedent was set for the NCAA death penalty in college football with Southern Methodist University in 1987. SMU had numerous violations, over many years, involving unsanctioned financial contributions to players from boosters. The NCAA issued probations and warnings long before the death penalty was enforced in 1987. After the death penalty was enforced, SMU still has yet to recover from the loss.
As recently as this season, the University of Miami was threatened with the death penalty after a former booster was arrested for a ponzi scheme and admitted to funding at least 72 players over an eight year period. The funding of these players got more seedy, with evidence of the money being used for strip clubs, prostitution and abortions. The NCAA, after the destruction of the SMU program, has yet to issue the death penalty in this case.
The situation at Penn State is not a scandal of unsanctioned financial contributions to players or recruits. The NCAA doesn’t have a precedent set for a situation as horrendous as this, and despite not having a previous case to look back upon, the NCAA needs to look at Penn State, and specifically the football program. The Penn State football program’s actions (or lack there of) are more reprehensible than anything that has occurred at either SMU or Miami.
If we look at the facts that have been brought forth by the investigation in the grand jury testimony, we know there were many incidents involving young boys on Penn State football grounds as far back as 1994.
After a report from a concerned mother in 1994, university police investigated the situation, but the officer was told by the director of campus police to close the investigation. Sandusky was interviewed at this time and admitted to hugging the young boy in the shower.
There were other victims reported in the grand jury report, in between this time and 1998. In 1998, there was another investigation of Sandusky and he abruptly retired in 1999 at the age of 51, but was given emeritus status at the university. Sandusky still had his title of coach and access to all facilities at the university and the football program.
In 2002, then graduate assistant Mike McQueary witnessed Sandusky engaging in anal sex with a young boy. He reported the incident to head coach Joe Paterno the following morning. McQueary then told athletic director Tim Curley and senior vice president for finance and business Gary Schultz about the incident. Curley and Schultz stated that they would look into it and determine what further action they would take. Curley had taken away Sandusky’s keys to the locker room and told Sandusky not to bring youths on to the Penn State campus. Curley did not report the incident to either university or city police and admitted that their instruction to Sandusky to not bring children on campus was unenforceable.
This seems as though Penn State was willing to concede that Sandusky had a problem with young boys, but simply didn’t want this to occur on Penn State property any longer.
The involvement with the football program specifically, that should be penalized with the death penalty isn’t simply the lack of appropriate action against an alleged child molester, but allowing his continued involvement in the program after numerous allegations and investigations. The football program is directly involved for allowing his continued participation at the university. In a hypothetical situation, would a history professor accused and investigated over a long period of time continue to have access to all facilities and be able to keep his title at the facility? It seems obvious that Sandusky was allowed continued access due to his football contributions and therefore the football program must be held accountable.
The other situation that the NCAA may want to investigate is the university’s financial implications of reporting Sandusky’s alleged behavior. If Sandusky were to be disgraced publicly in a child molestation case, how would that affect potential recruiting, financial contributions from boosters, and overall income coming to the university from the football program. Was the university harboring an alleged child molester to save the face of the program and the continued financial gain from maintaining the image of Penn State football?
There are other factors at play in regards to the program. The current players and staff are unfortunate victims to the decisions that the administration had made. The NCAA could compensate the players by allowing transfers without a year waiting period if they so choose and the current staff could be given proper compensation for the wages lost over the course of the death penalty suspension.
The Penn State scandal is despicable and horrendous for the victims, the alumni and the community. The lack of action from the officials at the university and it’s football program are unacceptable. The NCAA needs to step in with a harsh judgment on the program no matter the result of the pending criminal case. Penn State has already committed their crimes by appointing individuals that decided to not report Sandusky to proper authorities to keep his influence in the football program and potentially allowing further atrocious acts to occur on young boys.
The university is bigger than the football program and I wish the university continued success, but after the actions of their officials at the head of the university and in the football program over at least the last 15 years should cost the institution it’s football program.
More facts will be released as this scandal unfolds through reports and testimony over the next months, but the facts that have already been released in regards to this alleged case warrant the NCAA death penalty.
Precedent was set for the NCAA death penalty in college football with Southern Methodist University in 1987. SMU had numerous violations, over many years, involving unsanctioned financial contributions to players from boosters. The NCAA issued probations and warnings long before the death penalty was enforced in 1987. After the death penalty was enforced, SMU still has yet to recover from the loss.
As recently as this season, the University of Miami was threatened with the death penalty after a former booster was arrested for a ponzi scheme and admitted to funding at least 72 players over an eight year period. The funding of these players got more seedy, with evidence of the money being used for strip clubs, prostitution and abortions. The NCAA, after the destruction of the SMU program, has yet to issue the death penalty in this case.
The situation at Penn State is not a scandal of unsanctioned financial contributions to players or recruits. The NCAA doesn’t have a precedent set for a situation as horrendous as this, and despite not having a previous case to look back upon, the NCAA needs to look at Penn State, and specifically the football program. The Penn State football program’s actions (or lack there of) are more reprehensible than anything that has occurred at either SMU or Miami.
If we look at the facts that have been brought forth by the investigation in the grand jury testimony, we know there were many incidents involving young boys on Penn State football grounds as far back as 1994.
After a report from a concerned mother in 1994, university police investigated the situation, but the officer was told by the director of campus police to close the investigation. Sandusky was interviewed at this time and admitted to hugging the young boy in the shower.
There were other victims reported in the grand jury report, in between this time and 1998. In 1998, there was another investigation of Sandusky and he abruptly retired in 1999 at the age of 51, but was given emeritus status at the university. Sandusky still had his title of coach and access to all facilities at the university and the football program.
In 2002, then graduate assistant Mike McQueary witnessed Sandusky engaging in anal sex with a young boy. He reported the incident to head coach Joe Paterno the following morning. McQueary then told athletic director Tim Curley and senior vice president for finance and business Gary Schultz about the incident. Curley and Schultz stated that they would look into it and determine what further action they would take. Curley had taken away Sandusky’s keys to the locker room and told Sandusky not to bring youths on to the Penn State campus. Curley did not report the incident to either university or city police and admitted that their instruction to Sandusky to not bring children on campus was unenforceable.
This seems as though Penn State was willing to concede that Sandusky had a problem with young boys, but simply didn’t want this to occur on Penn State property any longer.
The involvement with the football program specifically, that should be penalized with the death penalty isn’t simply the lack of appropriate action against an alleged child molester, but allowing his continued involvement in the program after numerous allegations and investigations. The football program is directly involved for allowing his continued participation at the university. In a hypothetical situation, would a history professor accused and investigated over a long period of time continue to have access to all facilities and be able to keep his title at the facility? It seems obvious that Sandusky was allowed continued access due to his football contributions and therefore the football program must be held accountable.
The other situation that the NCAA may want to investigate is the university’s financial implications of reporting Sandusky’s alleged behavior. If Sandusky were to be disgraced publicly in a child molestation case, how would that affect potential recruiting, financial contributions from boosters, and overall income coming to the university from the football program. Was the university harboring an alleged child molester to save the face of the program and the continued financial gain from maintaining the image of Penn State football?
There are other factors at play in regards to the program. The current players and staff are unfortunate victims to the decisions that the administration had made. The NCAA could compensate the players by allowing transfers without a year waiting period if they so choose and the current staff could be given proper compensation for the wages lost over the course of the death penalty suspension.
The Penn State scandal is despicable and horrendous for the victims, the alumni and the community. The lack of action from the officials at the university and it’s football program are unacceptable. The NCAA needs to step in with a harsh judgment on the program no matter the result of the pending criminal case. Penn State has already committed their crimes by appointing individuals that decided to not report Sandusky to proper authorities to keep his influence in the football program and potentially allowing further atrocious acts to occur on young boys.
The university is bigger than the football program and I wish the university continued success, but after the actions of their officials at the head of the university and in the football program over at least the last 15 years should cost the institution it’s football program.
Gophers start strong, finish 1-2 at WBI Tipoff
Minnesota defeated Arkansas before losing to No. 13 Florida State and USF.
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-14
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team won its regular season opener, but finished with a 1-2 record at the Women’s Basketball Invitational Tipoff on Nov. 11-13 in Daytona Beach, Fla.
Minnesota defeated Arkansas on Friday and then lost to No. 13 Florida State on Saturday and South Florida on Sunday.
“We’re going to get better from this,” assistant coach Curtis Loyd told ESPN1500 radio Sunday. “We got to give our younger kids some experience on the floor.”
Minnesota fought admirably against a tough Florida State team Saturday, but ran out of steam in the second half and fell to the Seminoles 68-56.
The Gophers led 44-37 before Florida State went on a 31-12 run to finish the game. Minnesota made just three field goals in the last 15:20.
Rachel Banham had 10 points in the loss, but shot just 4-for-16 and had six turnovers. The freshman point guard made her only 3-point shot to cut Florida State’s lead to 51-50 with 6:39 left, but the Seminoles went on a 12-0 run thereafter.
Senior Kiara Buford led Minnesota with 13 points and added four rebounds and five assists. Junior Katie Loberg had 11 points and six rebounds.
Alexa Deluzio led Florida State with 17 points, including two three-point shots following Banham’s triple to give the Seminoles a 57-50 lead.
“We have big goals, so, although we have a lot of work to do, I thought our team put up a great fight today,” Gophers head coach Pam Borton said in a release after Saturday’s loss.
On Sunday, the Gophers looked as though they were running on tired legs as Southern Florida defeated them 60-52.
The Gophers shot just 27 percent from the field and had 17 points at the half. They ended the game on a 13-2 run to make it competitive.
Buford again led the Gophers with 16 points, but also had four turnovers.
Banham missed her first eight shots and didn’t score until one minute remained in the first half. She finished the game with six points on 2-for-15 shooting.
Loberg spent Saturday trying to guard Florida State’s All-American Cierra Bravard but shot just 2-for-9 and had five points Sunday.
Banham led the team to a 68-60 victory in its opener against Arkansas, scoring 15 points on 6-for-14 shooting. She had just two turnovers and four assists.
Minnesota committed 18 turnovers as a team, but Arkansas had 24. Gophers forward Kionna Kellogg had six steals, and Banham and junior guard Leah Cotton each added two.
The Gophers took a 29-23 lead into the intermission and trailed only briefly in the second half. Down 44-42, they went on a 15-2 run to take an 11-point lead that they would not relinquish.
Buford added 13 points and six rebounds, and Loberg had 12 points and a team-high seven rebounds.
Buford showed her leadership by filling up the stat sheet in each game. She finished the weekend with a team-high 42 points, 15 rebounds, 10 assists, three steals, and four blocks.
Banham, on the other hand, showed inconsistency as a freshman still learning the ropes. She had 31 points on the weekend, but shot just 6-for-31 in the Gophers’ two losses.
Minnesota will try to rebound from back-to-back losses when it returns to Williams Arena for the Subway Classic tournament on Nov. 19-20.
The Gophers are scheduled to play Binghamton on Saturday. If they win, they will play in Sunday’s championship game; if they lose, they will play in a consolation game Sunday.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/14/gophers-start-strong-finish-1-2-wbi-tipoff
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-14
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team won its regular season opener, but finished with a 1-2 record at the Women’s Basketball Invitational Tipoff on Nov. 11-13 in Daytona Beach, Fla.
Minnesota defeated Arkansas on Friday and then lost to No. 13 Florida State on Saturday and South Florida on Sunday.
“We’re going to get better from this,” assistant coach Curtis Loyd told ESPN1500 radio Sunday. “We got to give our younger kids some experience on the floor.”
Minnesota fought admirably against a tough Florida State team Saturday, but ran out of steam in the second half and fell to the Seminoles 68-56.
The Gophers led 44-37 before Florida State went on a 31-12 run to finish the game. Minnesota made just three field goals in the last 15:20.
Rachel Banham had 10 points in the loss, but shot just 4-for-16 and had six turnovers. The freshman point guard made her only 3-point shot to cut Florida State’s lead to 51-50 with 6:39 left, but the Seminoles went on a 12-0 run thereafter.
Senior Kiara Buford led Minnesota with 13 points and added four rebounds and five assists. Junior Katie Loberg had 11 points and six rebounds.
Alexa Deluzio led Florida State with 17 points, including two three-point shots following Banham’s triple to give the Seminoles a 57-50 lead.
“We have big goals, so, although we have a lot of work to do, I thought our team put up a great fight today,” Gophers head coach Pam Borton said in a release after Saturday’s loss.
On Sunday, the Gophers looked as though they were running on tired legs as Southern Florida defeated them 60-52.
The Gophers shot just 27 percent from the field and had 17 points at the half. They ended the game on a 13-2 run to make it competitive.
Buford again led the Gophers with 16 points, but also had four turnovers.
Banham missed her first eight shots and didn’t score until one minute remained in the first half. She finished the game with six points on 2-for-15 shooting.
Loberg spent Saturday trying to guard Florida State’s All-American Cierra Bravard but shot just 2-for-9 and had five points Sunday.
Banham led the team to a 68-60 victory in its opener against Arkansas, scoring 15 points on 6-for-14 shooting. She had just two turnovers and four assists.
Minnesota committed 18 turnovers as a team, but Arkansas had 24. Gophers forward Kionna Kellogg had six steals, and Banham and junior guard Leah Cotton each added two.
The Gophers took a 29-23 lead into the intermission and trailed only briefly in the second half. Down 44-42, they went on a 15-2 run to take an 11-point lead that they would not relinquish.
Buford added 13 points and six rebounds, and Loberg had 12 points and a team-high seven rebounds.
Buford showed her leadership by filling up the stat sheet in each game. She finished the weekend with a team-high 42 points, 15 rebounds, 10 assists, three steals, and four blocks.
Banham, on the other hand, showed inconsistency as a freshman still learning the ropes. She had 31 points on the weekend, but shot just 6-for-31 in the Gophers’ two losses.
Minnesota will try to rebound from back-to-back losses when it returns to Williams Arena for the Subway Classic tournament on Nov. 19-20.
The Gophers are scheduled to play Binghamton on Saturday. If they win, they will play in Sunday’s championship game; if they lose, they will play in a consolation game Sunday.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/14/gophers-start-strong-finish-1-2-wbi-tipoff
Quick hitters: Gopher-Badger football game
Quick hitters: Gopher-Badger football game
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-14
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota quarterback MarQueis Gray became a father late Friday night, as his girlfriend gave birth to twin boys named MarShawn and MarZell.
Gray said he received a call during team activities and was given a ride to the hospital to be with his girlfriend.
“It was the best day of my life,” Gray said.
Though he and head coach Jerry Kill said it was unrelated, he had his worst statistical performance of the year Saturday.
He had only six completions for 51 yards and threw an interception. His longest completion was only 12 yards.
The 51 yards passing was Minnesota’s lowest total this season. Its previous low for passing yards was 104 yards in a 58-0 loss at Michigan.
Minnesota only had 48 plays from scrimmage.
“I said we could not win this game unless we snapped the ball 70 or 80 times,” Kill said. “We couldn’t leave our defense out on the football field all the time. Our defense was out there and they controlled the football.” Minnesota averaged a season-low 3.25 yards on those 48 plays.
Minnesota scored its two touchdowns on special teams plays. The first was a fake field goal and run by kicker Jordan Wettstein. Wettstein had to break a tackle on the five-yard run to the end zone.
“I thought I was down. I saw him coming, but I tried making a little move on him. I watched the running backs all week on that,” Wettstein said.
Wettstein missed the extra point after his touchdown.
The second special teams touchdown was a 96-yard kickoff return by senior Duane Bennett to open the second half. It was the Gophers’ second kickoff return for a touchdown this year.
Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson finished the game 16-for-17 for 178 yards and four touchdowns. His only incompletion was a dropped pass by Nick Toon.
The Gophers’ defense also gave up 16 straight completions to Matt Barkley in the first game of the year. Minnesota has given up at least nine straight completions to five different quarterbacks.
Wisconsin running back Montee Ball ran for 166 yards and two touchdowns and added a touchdown reception.
Minnesota’s running backs, by contrast, were held to 32 yards on 12 carries.
The Gophers’ defense penetrated Wisconsin’s offensive line and sacked Wilson twice, which brought Minnesota’s season total to 12.
Senior linebacker Gary Tinsley, who recorded one of those sacks, had three tackles for loss and had double-digit tackles — 12 — for the first time this year.
Minnesota recorded eight tackles for loss throughout the game, the most since its opening game against USC.
Safety Kim Royston recorded nine tackles against his former team, including one for a loss. Royston, a Minneapolis native, played for the Badgers before he transferred to Minnesota.
Despite the numerous tackles for loss and sacks, the Gophers’ defense allowed Wisconsin to succeed on third down 70 percent of the time.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/14/quick-hitters-gopher-badger-football-game
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-14
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota quarterback MarQueis Gray became a father late Friday night, as his girlfriend gave birth to twin boys named MarShawn and MarZell.
Gray said he received a call during team activities and was given a ride to the hospital to be with his girlfriend.
“It was the best day of my life,” Gray said.
Though he and head coach Jerry Kill said it was unrelated, he had his worst statistical performance of the year Saturday.
He had only six completions for 51 yards and threw an interception. His longest completion was only 12 yards.
The 51 yards passing was Minnesota’s lowest total this season. Its previous low for passing yards was 104 yards in a 58-0 loss at Michigan.
Minnesota only had 48 plays from scrimmage.
“I said we could not win this game unless we snapped the ball 70 or 80 times,” Kill said. “We couldn’t leave our defense out on the football field all the time. Our defense was out there and they controlled the football.” Minnesota averaged a season-low 3.25 yards on those 48 plays.
Minnesota scored its two touchdowns on special teams plays. The first was a fake field goal and run by kicker Jordan Wettstein. Wettstein had to break a tackle on the five-yard run to the end zone.
“I thought I was down. I saw him coming, but I tried making a little move on him. I watched the running backs all week on that,” Wettstein said.
Wettstein missed the extra point after his touchdown.
The second special teams touchdown was a 96-yard kickoff return by senior Duane Bennett to open the second half. It was the Gophers’ second kickoff return for a touchdown this year.
Wisconsin quarterback Russell Wilson finished the game 16-for-17 for 178 yards and four touchdowns. His only incompletion was a dropped pass by Nick Toon.
The Gophers’ defense also gave up 16 straight completions to Matt Barkley in the first game of the year. Minnesota has given up at least nine straight completions to five different quarterbacks.
Wisconsin running back Montee Ball ran for 166 yards and two touchdowns and added a touchdown reception.
Minnesota’s running backs, by contrast, were held to 32 yards on 12 carries.
The Gophers’ defense penetrated Wisconsin’s offensive line and sacked Wilson twice, which brought Minnesota’s season total to 12.
Senior linebacker Gary Tinsley, who recorded one of those sacks, had three tackles for loss and had double-digit tackles — 12 — for the first time this year.
Minnesota recorded eight tackles for loss throughout the game, the most since its opening game against USC.
Safety Kim Royston recorded nine tackles against his former team, including one for a loss. Royston, a Minneapolis native, played for the Badgers before he transferred to Minnesota.
Despite the numerous tackles for loss and sacks, the Gophers’ defense allowed Wisconsin to succeed on third down 70 percent of the time.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/14/quick-hitters-gopher-badger-football-game
Gophers open regular season with WBI Tipoff
Kiara Buford and Rachel Banham lead Minnesota to Daytona Beach.
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-10
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team opens its regular season this weekend in Florida with the Women’s Basketball Invitational Tipoff. Minnesota will play Arkansas, Florida State and South Florida over the weekend.
“I’m excited about taking this team on the road,” head coach Pam Borton said. “We’ve got three exciting and difficult games. I feel like it’s the pre-NCAA tournament this weekend.”
The Gophers beat St. Cloud State and Bemidji State handily in their two exhibition games, but now will face a higher level of competition.
Borton said that the team’s consistent intensity has been its greatest strength in both practice and the exhibition games.
Minnesota will rely on a senior-freshman combination in its backcourt this year. Kiara Buford and Rachel Banham have run the floor in transition effectively to date.
“We’re a faster team,” Borton said. “We’re running a lot more. We’re a lot more fun to watch, and the players are enjoying playing in that type of style.”
Banham said the speed is different than high school, where she dominated, but that she is working on both her speed and strength.
Buford has filled up the stat sheet and been a vocal leader on the court this season. She was forced to ball-handling duties last year but is now playing more shooting guard.
“I don’t think my role change has been difficult. It’s something that has evolved naturally,” Buford said. “Having Rachel at the point makes my life easier on the court.”
The Gophers were able to dominate the inside against watered-down exhibition competition, but this is an area in which they will be tested in the regular season.
Jackie Voigt, Micaëlla Riche and Katie Loberg will need to step up in rebounding and on defense for Minnesota to improve this year.
FSU is ranked 13th in the nation and will be a tough test for the Gophers. Last year, the Seminoles were one of the best teams in the nation in scoring offense, field-goal percentage and rebounding margin.
This weekend will be the first regular season step in the budding career of Rachel Banham, as well as an opportunity for the Gophers to rise back to the upper echelon of the Big Ten.
“We want to go down and come back 3-0,” Borton said. “We have a lot to prove as far as the Big Ten and our program.”
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/10/gophers-open-regular-season-wbi-tipoff
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-10
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
The Gophers women’s basketball team opens its regular season this weekend in Florida with the Women’s Basketball Invitational Tipoff. Minnesota will play Arkansas, Florida State and South Florida over the weekend.
“I’m excited about taking this team on the road,” head coach Pam Borton said. “We’ve got three exciting and difficult games. I feel like it’s the pre-NCAA tournament this weekend.”
The Gophers beat St. Cloud State and Bemidji State handily in their two exhibition games, but now will face a higher level of competition.
Borton said that the team’s consistent intensity has been its greatest strength in both practice and the exhibition games.
Minnesota will rely on a senior-freshman combination in its backcourt this year. Kiara Buford and Rachel Banham have run the floor in transition effectively to date.
“We’re a faster team,” Borton said. “We’re running a lot more. We’re a lot more fun to watch, and the players are enjoying playing in that type of style.”
Banham said the speed is different than high school, where she dominated, but that she is working on both her speed and strength.
Buford has filled up the stat sheet and been a vocal leader on the court this season. She was forced to ball-handling duties last year but is now playing more shooting guard.
“I don’t think my role change has been difficult. It’s something that has evolved naturally,” Buford said. “Having Rachel at the point makes my life easier on the court.”
The Gophers were able to dominate the inside against watered-down exhibition competition, but this is an area in which they will be tested in the regular season.
Jackie Voigt, Micaëlla Riche and Katie Loberg will need to step up in rebounding and on defense for Minnesota to improve this year.
FSU is ranked 13th in the nation and will be a tough test for the Gophers. Last year, the Seminoles were one of the best teams in the nation in scoring offense, field-goal percentage and rebounding margin.
This weekend will be the first regular season step in the budding career of Rachel Banham, as well as an opportunity for the Gophers to rise back to the upper echelon of the Big Ten.
“We want to go down and come back 3-0,” Borton said. “We have a lot to prove as far as the Big Ten and our program.”
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/10/gophers-open-regular-season-wbi-tipoff
Badgers pose difficult test as heavy favorites
Minnesota will face an uphill battle against Wisconsin.
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-10
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota hosts the Wisconsin Badgers on Saturday at TCF Bank Stadium to battle for Paul Bunyan’s Axe. This game will be the 121st in the interstate rivalry and Minnesota hasn’t won since 2003.
The Badgers came into the season with high expectations, but back-to-back last-minute losses to Michigan State and Ohio State derailed their national championship dreams.
“There are no weaknesses on that football team,” Minnesota head coach Jerry Kill said. “They are two plays away from being top two or three in the country, maybe the top team in the country.”
Wisconsin’s senior quarterback Russell Wilson leads the conference in passing yards and touchdowns.
Wilson played minor league baseball with the Colorado Rockies organization last year and previously was the quarterback for North Carolina State. He had one year of eligibility left and transferred to Wisconsin to play football and attend graduate school.
Kill called him “the difference in their whole football team.”
He added: “He plays on a different level than anybody else in college football.”
The Gophers are coming off two good performances, and the play of their quarterback, MarQueis Gray, has been the difference as well.
Gray notched career-bests in completions, yards and touchdowns last week against MSU. He has progressed slowly through the year, battling cramps and a turf toe injury, but has played the entirety of the last three games.
He appears more comfortable andconfident now than at other points of the season.
“[Gray] has got a lot more confident. He’s become more of a leader instead of a friend. He’s coming out as the leader of the team,” the Gophers’ Devin Crawford-Tufts said.
Crawford-Tufts will return after suffering a quad injury against MSU.
“I hate Wisconsin. I’m excited to play in this game,” he said.
Gray has hooked up with Da’Jon McKnight for 41 receptions on the year, and no other receivers have more than 13 receptions.
The Badgers’ pass defense is second in the conference and its focus will likely be on McKnight.
On the opposite side, Wilson has spread the ball around to his top-two receivers and tight end. Nick Toon and Jared Abbrederis have a combined 1,193 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Safety Kim Royston, who used to play for the Badgers, transferred to Minnesota after the 2007 season. Royston will have the task of trying to defend the Badgers’ high-powered passing attack while balancing coverage in the equally dominant Wisconsin rushing attack.
While the passing game has been successful, the Badgers’ bread and butter has always been their running game, starting with big offensive lineman. That line has blocked well this year, paving the way for Montee Ball’s 1,076 yards and 21 touchdowns.
The Gophers’ defense will have its work cut out for it against this bigger, more experienced line. The Badgers’ offensive line averages 320 pounds — bigger than the Green Bay Packers.
The Gophers’ two defensive ends are freshmen, averaging 238 pounds.
“They’re big, but the bigger they are, the harder they fall,” defensive end Ben Perry said. “You’ve got to hit, you play low, you play with leverage and you can play against anybody.”
Wisconsin excels on its third-down conversions, which is one area in which the Gophers’ defense has improved dramatically.
Each week of the Big Ten schedule, Minnesota has reduced its opponent’s third-down success rate, down to only 30 percent against MSU on Saturday.
The Badgers’ run defense has been suspect this year. It has the two leading tacklers in the Big Ten in linebackers Chris Borland and Mike Taylor, but is surrendering 137 yards per game on the ground.
Minnesota’s running backs have not had much success, however. Senior running back Duane Bennett is the only back with a 100-yard game this season. Gray has added two with his scrambling ability, but the Gophers will need to establish the running game to have success Saturday.
Minnesota will have its hands full against a Wisconsin team that has national championship-caliber talent.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/10/badgers-pose-difficult-test-heavy-favorites
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-10
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota hosts the Wisconsin Badgers on Saturday at TCF Bank Stadium to battle for Paul Bunyan’s Axe. This game will be the 121st in the interstate rivalry and Minnesota hasn’t won since 2003.
The Badgers came into the season with high expectations, but back-to-back last-minute losses to Michigan State and Ohio State derailed their national championship dreams.
“There are no weaknesses on that football team,” Minnesota head coach Jerry Kill said. “They are two plays away from being top two or three in the country, maybe the top team in the country.”
Wisconsin’s senior quarterback Russell Wilson leads the conference in passing yards and touchdowns.
Wilson played minor league baseball with the Colorado Rockies organization last year and previously was the quarterback for North Carolina State. He had one year of eligibility left and transferred to Wisconsin to play football and attend graduate school.
Kill called him “the difference in their whole football team.”
He added: “He plays on a different level than anybody else in college football.”
The Gophers are coming off two good performances, and the play of their quarterback, MarQueis Gray, has been the difference as well.
Gray notched career-bests in completions, yards and touchdowns last week against MSU. He has progressed slowly through the year, battling cramps and a turf toe injury, but has played the entirety of the last three games.
He appears more comfortable andconfident now than at other points of the season.
“[Gray] has got a lot more confident. He’s become more of a leader instead of a friend. He’s coming out as the leader of the team,” the Gophers’ Devin Crawford-Tufts said.
Crawford-Tufts will return after suffering a quad injury against MSU.
“I hate Wisconsin. I’m excited to play in this game,” he said.
Gray has hooked up with Da’Jon McKnight for 41 receptions on the year, and no other receivers have more than 13 receptions.
The Badgers’ pass defense is second in the conference and its focus will likely be on McKnight.
On the opposite side, Wilson has spread the ball around to his top-two receivers and tight end. Nick Toon and Jared Abbrederis have a combined 1,193 yards and 11 touchdowns.
Safety Kim Royston, who used to play for the Badgers, transferred to Minnesota after the 2007 season. Royston will have the task of trying to defend the Badgers’ high-powered passing attack while balancing coverage in the equally dominant Wisconsin rushing attack.
While the passing game has been successful, the Badgers’ bread and butter has always been their running game, starting with big offensive lineman. That line has blocked well this year, paving the way for Montee Ball’s 1,076 yards and 21 touchdowns.
The Gophers’ defense will have its work cut out for it against this bigger, more experienced line. The Badgers’ offensive line averages 320 pounds — bigger than the Green Bay Packers.
The Gophers’ two defensive ends are freshmen, averaging 238 pounds.
“They’re big, but the bigger they are, the harder they fall,” defensive end Ben Perry said. “You’ve got to hit, you play low, you play with leverage and you can play against anybody.”
Wisconsin excels on its third-down conversions, which is one area in which the Gophers’ defense has improved dramatically.
Each week of the Big Ten schedule, Minnesota has reduced its opponent’s third-down success rate, down to only 30 percent against MSU on Saturday.
The Badgers’ run defense has been suspect this year. It has the two leading tacklers in the Big Ten in linebackers Chris Borland and Mike Taylor, but is surrendering 137 yards per game on the ground.
Minnesota’s running backs have not had much success, however. Senior running back Duane Bennett is the only back with a 100-yard game this season. Gray has added two with his scrambling ability, but the Gophers will need to establish the running game to have success Saturday.
Minnesota will have its hands full against a Wisconsin team that has national championship-caliber talent.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/10/badgers-pose-difficult-test-heavy-favorites
Gophers show improvement in loss to MSU
Minnesota took a close 31-24 loss in East Lansing.
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-07
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota fought hard in East Lansing, but came up short against Michigan State, losing 31-24.
Quarterback MarQueis Gray had a career day against the Spartans’ defense. He threw for 295 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. The yardage was a career high, as were his 19 completions.
“I would like a win, but other than that it was a nice game. The win would’ve felt better,” Gray said.
Senior wide receiver Da’Jon McKnight had a career day as well, with nine receptions for 173 yards and three touchdowns. The yardage was a career-high, and the receptions and touchdowns tied his career-highs.
The Gophers had a chance to tie the game with 2:22 remaining. Gray and the offense took over the ball on Minnesota’s own 10-yard line. After driving down the field, Gray was intercepted for the second time by Trenton Robinson, which sealed the Spartan victory.
The last time the Gophers played in the state of Michigan, they were blown out 58-0 in Ann Arbor. Saturday’s game in East Lansing featured a different Minnesota team.
“I think we’ve made quite a bit [of progress],” head coach Jerry Kill said. “I do think we are getting better. We found a way to win last week. I wish we would’ve found a way to win today.”
He said he felt confident until the last play Minnesota could tie the score and send it to overtime.
The Gophers’ defense had a big turnover early that changed the momentum of the game, but was unable to hold off the Spartans’ passing attack over the course of the day.
Spartans’ senior quarterback Kirk Cousins finished the game with 296 yards passing and two touchdowns.
The Gophers’ offensive line double-teamed the Spartans’ All-American defensive tackle Jerel Worthy most of the day, which allowed Gray time in the pocket.
Worthy plugged up the middle of the field, holding Minnesota running backs to only 45 yards rushing, but Gray was able to exploit the defense through the air.
The game started with a flurry of scores. None of the first four scoring drives lasted longer than two minutes.
The only break in the first half tempo was when Minnesota used an eight-minute drive and some MSU penalties to bend the Spartans’ touted defense and score a field goal to take a 17-14 lead.
At the start of the game, Gray hit McKnight for a 64-yard touchdown four minutes into the first quarter. McKnight broke three tackles on the 55-yard scamper after his catch.
Minnesota had not scored first in any of its Big Ten games, but did so Saturday.
MSU quickly struck back with a 69-yard bomb from Cousins to B.J. Cunningham that put the Spartans inside the 10-yard line, and Cousins followed that up with a 4-yard touchdown pass to tie the game at 7-7.
Cunningham was held without a catch in his previous game Oct. 29 against Nebraska. The Spartans were only able to put up 3 points in that game. He rebounded Saturday with 104 yards receiving against Minnesota.
The first half ended with a 51-second, 74-yard touchdown drive that gave MSU a 21-17 lead.
The Gophers’ offense broke through in the second half when Gray threw his third touchdown pass to McKnight halfway through the quarter to take a 24-21 lead.
“I think I got open because of the threat of MarQueis Gray. The defense focused on him and I got behind the defense,” McKnight said.
Minnesota played strong defense in the second half, but came up short in the fourth quarter. Each series, they bent but were able to keep from breaking.
Minnesota stopped MSU on a second-half series, but extended the drive with a 15-yard roughing the kicker penalty. The Gophers’ defense stood strong again though and forced MSU to punt after a 12-yard sack by Gary Tinsley.
“The defense did a great job today. We came out ready from the start. Everybody was focused before the game. We swarmed to the ball,” Tinsley said.
Minnesota’s defense even stopped MSU on a short field after a turnover, and the Spartans had to settle for a field goal to tie the game at 24.
The Gophers’ defense made many stops on the afternoon, but allowed sporadic large gains throughout the game.
Gray had looked sharp all day, but threw an interception late in the third quarter that let MSU gain some momentum and changed the course of the game.
Spartan running back Le’Veon Bell scored the go-ahead touchdown on a 35-yard power run with 10:58 left in the game.
The Spartans’ second-ranked defense was able to dig in its heels and make a stand against Minnesota in the fourth quarter, where they held Minnesota scoreless.
The Spartans now have a 14-game home winning streak and haven’t lost at Spartan Stadium since 2009.
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ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/05/gophers-play-well-take-loss-michigan-state
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-07
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota fought hard in East Lansing, but came up short against Michigan State, losing 31-24.
Quarterback MarQueis Gray had a career day against the Spartans’ defense. He threw for 295 yards, three touchdowns and two interceptions. The yardage was a career high, as were his 19 completions.
“I would like a win, but other than that it was a nice game. The win would’ve felt better,” Gray said.
Senior wide receiver Da’Jon McKnight had a career day as well, with nine receptions for 173 yards and three touchdowns. The yardage was a career-high, and the receptions and touchdowns tied his career-highs.
The Gophers had a chance to tie the game with 2:22 remaining. Gray and the offense took over the ball on Minnesota’s own 10-yard line. After driving down the field, Gray was intercepted for the second time by Trenton Robinson, which sealed the Spartan victory.
The last time the Gophers played in the state of Michigan, they were blown out 58-0 in Ann Arbor. Saturday’s game in East Lansing featured a different Minnesota team.
“I think we’ve made quite a bit [of progress],” head coach Jerry Kill said. “I do think we are getting better. We found a way to win last week. I wish we would’ve found a way to win today.”
He said he felt confident until the last play Minnesota could tie the score and send it to overtime.
The Gophers’ defense had a big turnover early that changed the momentum of the game, but was unable to hold off the Spartans’ passing attack over the course of the day.
Spartans’ senior quarterback Kirk Cousins finished the game with 296 yards passing and two touchdowns.
The Gophers’ offensive line double-teamed the Spartans’ All-American defensive tackle Jerel Worthy most of the day, which allowed Gray time in the pocket.
Worthy plugged up the middle of the field, holding Minnesota running backs to only 45 yards rushing, but Gray was able to exploit the defense through the air.
The game started with a flurry of scores. None of the first four scoring drives lasted longer than two minutes.
The only break in the first half tempo was when Minnesota used an eight-minute drive and some MSU penalties to bend the Spartans’ touted defense and score a field goal to take a 17-14 lead.
At the start of the game, Gray hit McKnight for a 64-yard touchdown four minutes into the first quarter. McKnight broke three tackles on the 55-yard scamper after his catch.
Minnesota had not scored first in any of its Big Ten games, but did so Saturday.
MSU quickly struck back with a 69-yard bomb from Cousins to B.J. Cunningham that put the Spartans inside the 10-yard line, and Cousins followed that up with a 4-yard touchdown pass to tie the game at 7-7.
Cunningham was held without a catch in his previous game Oct. 29 against Nebraska. The Spartans were only able to put up 3 points in that game. He rebounded Saturday with 104 yards receiving against Minnesota.
The first half ended with a 51-second, 74-yard touchdown drive that gave MSU a 21-17 lead.
The Gophers’ offense broke through in the second half when Gray threw his third touchdown pass to McKnight halfway through the quarter to take a 24-21 lead.
“I think I got open because of the threat of MarQueis Gray. The defense focused on him and I got behind the defense,” McKnight said.
Minnesota played strong defense in the second half, but came up short in the fourth quarter. Each series, they bent but were able to keep from breaking.
Minnesota stopped MSU on a second-half series, but extended the drive with a 15-yard roughing the kicker penalty. The Gophers’ defense stood strong again though and forced MSU to punt after a 12-yard sack by Gary Tinsley.
“The defense did a great job today. We came out ready from the start. Everybody was focused before the game. We swarmed to the ball,” Tinsley said.
Minnesota’s defense even stopped MSU on a short field after a turnover, and the Spartans had to settle for a field goal to tie the game at 24.
The Gophers’ defense made many stops on the afternoon, but allowed sporadic large gains throughout the game.
Gray had looked sharp all day, but threw an interception late in the third quarter that let MSU gain some momentum and changed the course of the game.
Spartan running back Le’Veon Bell scored the go-ahead touchdown on a 35-yard power run with 10:58 left in the game.
The Spartans’ second-ranked defense was able to dig in its heels and make a stand against Minnesota in the fourth quarter, where they held Minnesota scoreless.
The Spartans now have a 14-game home winning streak and haven’t lost at Spartan Stadium since 2009.
ALL CONTENT © 1900 - 2011
ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/05/gophers-play-well-take-loss-michigan-state
Quick Hitters
Quick hitters
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-03
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota had its most effective passing game in completion rate (64.7) and yards per attempt (11.4) last week against Iowa.
MarQueis Gray showed improvements last week as a player and a leader.
“I’m not used to being [a vocal leader],” Gray said. “It worked Saturday, so I’m going to have to keep doing it.”
Gray will face a tough Michigan State defense that is ranked second in the nation overall and first in passing defense.
Spartans safety Isaiah Lewis leads the Big Ten with four interceptions, and has returned two of those for touchdowns. He is familiar with Gray, as they were teammates at Ben Davis high school in Indiana.
Minnesota had three sacks last week and has eight on the year. Michigan State has 25 sacks this season for a total of 180 yards lost.
The Gophers’ offensive line has been a hodgepodge of players because of numerous injuries. It will face a stout Spartans defensive line led by All-American defensive tackle Jerel Worthy.
“It’s a challenge,” offensive coordinator Matt Limegrover said. “They’re very good. If you try to spend your whole day trying to solo up on those guys, you’ll be in for a long day,”
Michigan State has relied primarily on its passing game for offense. It ranks last in the Big Ten in rushing with 133 yards per game.
Spartans quarterback Kirk Cousins is ranked third in the Big Ten in passing offense.
“That kid alone is worth six or seven victories just because of who he is,” Minnesota head coach Jerry Kill said.
Michigan State receiver B.J. Cunningham ranks third in the Big Ten in receptions per game (6.0) and receiving yards per game (90.4), but failed to register a single reception last week against Nebraska. That broke his streak of 41 consecutive games with at least one catch.
Minnesota’s defense decreased its opponent’s third-down conversion rate for the fifth- straight week. The Gophers held Iowa to a 36 percent success rate on third down.
4Jordan Wettstein will get his second- straight start kicking for Minnesota. Chris Hawthorne is still nursing a muscle strain and will miss Saturday’s game.
4Michigan State linebacker William Gholston had a career-high 15 tackles last week against Nebraska and is third on the team in sacks. He is the cousin of former Big Ten standout Vernon Gholston.
ALL CONTENT © 1900 - 2011
ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/03/quick-hitters
PUBLISHED: 2011-11-03
ADAM RICHARD arichard@mndaily.com
Minnesota had its most effective passing game in completion rate (64.7) and yards per attempt (11.4) last week against Iowa.
MarQueis Gray showed improvements last week as a player and a leader.
“I’m not used to being [a vocal leader],” Gray said. “It worked Saturday, so I’m going to have to keep doing it.”
Gray will face a tough Michigan State defense that is ranked second in the nation overall and first in passing defense.
Spartans safety Isaiah Lewis leads the Big Ten with four interceptions, and has returned two of those for touchdowns. He is familiar with Gray, as they were teammates at Ben Davis high school in Indiana.
Minnesota had three sacks last week and has eight on the year. Michigan State has 25 sacks this season for a total of 180 yards lost.
The Gophers’ offensive line has been a hodgepodge of players because of numerous injuries. It will face a stout Spartans defensive line led by All-American defensive tackle Jerel Worthy.
“It’s a challenge,” offensive coordinator Matt Limegrover said. “They’re very good. If you try to spend your whole day trying to solo up on those guys, you’ll be in for a long day,”
Michigan State has relied primarily on its passing game for offense. It ranks last in the Big Ten in rushing with 133 yards per game.
Spartans quarterback Kirk Cousins is ranked third in the Big Ten in passing offense.
“That kid alone is worth six or seven victories just because of who he is,” Minnesota head coach Jerry Kill said.
Michigan State receiver B.J. Cunningham ranks third in the Big Ten in receptions per game (6.0) and receiving yards per game (90.4), but failed to register a single reception last week against Nebraska. That broke his streak of 41 consecutive games with at least one catch.
Minnesota’s defense decreased its opponent’s third-down conversion rate for the fifth- straight week. The Gophers held Iowa to a 36 percent success rate on third down.
4Jordan Wettstein will get his second- straight start kicking for Minnesota. Chris Hawthorne is still nursing a muscle strain and will miss Saturday’s game.
4Michigan State linebacker William Gholston had a career-high 15 tackles last week against Nebraska and is third on the team in sacks. He is the cousin of former Big Ten standout Vernon Gholston.
ALL CONTENT © 1900 - 2011
ARTICLE URL: http://www.mndaily.com/2011/11/03/quick-hitters
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