Gophers safety Antonio Johnson was asked after Saturday's 10-7 win against Kent State if his defense was stronger this season than at the same point a year ago.
Johnson didn't want to compare the two defenses since they both were formidable in their own ways.
"I don't really know," said Johnson, who had eight tackles. "I think it might be too early to tell. We've been solid both years."
But the 2015 version of Minnesota's defense continues to make a statement that it could be the best under fifth-year coach Jerry Kill.
Kent State's offense was held to just 142 total yards and got into opposing territory just three times Saturday, and that was only as far as the 42-yard line.