Minnesota leads Illinois 14-7. The Gophers have capitalized on two Illinois punt return muffs for scores and the defense has played well enough to keep the Gophers ahead.
Rodney Smith and Shannon Brooks continue to be Minnesota’s primary offense. Each of the backs has a touchdown, both the play after muffed Illini punt returns. Smith has 10 carries for 58 yards in the half, while Brooks has 8 for 47.
Mitch Leidner is 4/8 for 52 yard, but has also taken multiple sacks from the fast Illini defensive line. There is a lot of wind today and Jay Johnson seems to have decided that passing is an unnecessary requirement.