During Saturday’s 40-17 win, the Gophers’ defense was prepared and ready to handle Illinois’ rushing attack. Minnesota’s coaches implemented a strong gameplan that maximized the potential of each position group. With top running back Reggie Corbin in the backfield, defensive coordinator Joe Rossi had to install a scheme that limited Illinois’ rushing success. After being thrashed by the Fighting Illini’s mid and stretch zone rushing concepts in 2018, Minnesota approached this game differently.
Some of it was solely due to improved personnel. Last year, they simply didn’t have enough defensive back depth or experience to play a frequent amount of man coverage on the perimeter.