Shannon Brooks was named the Big Ten's co-freshmen of the week on Monday after rushing for 176 yards Saturday, the most for a Gophers freshman running back since 2003.
Brooks is the first player for the Gophers (4-2, 1-1) to receive a conference honor this season. Brooks will share it with Michigan safety Jabrill Peppers.
Brooks, of Jasper, Ga., rushed 17 times for 176 yards and one touchdown in Minnesota's 41-13 victory over Purdue in West Lafayette, Ind.
Brooks' rushing total was the most for the Gophers since Laurence Maroney's 179 yards against Illinois on Oct.