Vedral found JD Spielman wide open for a 51-yard gain on Nebraska's second drive. But the march stalled as the Huskers allowed back-to-back sacks. Pass protection was lacking most of the night, with Vedral affected negatively by an issue that's held back Martinez this season. Give Minnesota credit for good defense on Nebraska's incomplete screen pass that stalled its first drive of the game.
Minnesota flexed early and often in this area, with Rodney Smith bolting 35 yards on the Gophers' second play from scrimmage. UM established a physical presence from the get-go. The Gophers pounded out 72 yards on the ground during the six-play, 80-yard drive in the second quarter that pushed their lead to 14-0.