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Updated: August 18, 5:42 PM ET Minnesota may be downright offensive By Herb Gould Special to ESPN.com |
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Minnesota Golden Gophers
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Coach: Glen Mason (34-37, 7th season) 2002 overall record: 8-5 Conference record: 3-5 Returning starters Offense: 8, Defense: 8, Kicker/Punter: 0 2002 statistical leaders (* - returners) Rushing: Terry Jackson II* (1,317 yds) Passing: Asad Abdul-Khaliq* (2,190 yds) Receiving: Aaron Hosack* (649 yds) Tackles: Eli Ward* (116) Sacks: Charlton Keith* (7) Interceptions: Justin Isom* (3) Outlook: Never mind that the Gophers weren't so golden after a 7-1 start last fall, losing their last four regular-season games before surprising Arkansas 29-14 in the Music City Bowl. There's a well-justified buzz surrounding Minnesota football this fall. The Gophers return eight starters on each side of the ball, including mobile, experienced quarterback Asad Abdul-Khaliq, and a talented group of receivers, including tight end Ben Utrecht. Mix in a potentially potent running game that includes running backs Terry Jackson II and Marion Barber III, plus fullback Thomas Tapeh, and Minnesota could have an explosive offense. The problem is, the defense, which allowed 32 points per Big Ten game last fall, isn't as formidable. But Minnesota once again has a soft non-conference schedule to pad its record before it has to try and stop more rugged Big Ten offenses. It all adds up to a program that's headed in the right direction under Glen Mason, even if it is unlikely to secure a piece of the Big Ten championship for the first time since 1967. Keep an eye on: TE Utrecht, a converted wide receiver who has added nearly 60 pounds while retaining good speed. Key game: The Gophers figure to carry a 4-0 record into their Big Ten opener at Penn State. With a victory there, they could gain the momentum to live up to their upbeat expectations. It's a good year if. . .: Minnesota can post a winning record and secure its fourth bowl bid in five years under Mason. Some think the Gophers could pull more surprises than that, but that kind of strength isn't there yet. Herb Gould covers the Big Ten for the Chicago Sun-Times.
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