1. Defensive coordinator Kevin Clune said he studies 10-12 stats after every game, with rushing defense and third-down defense being the focal points following a 48-14 home loss to Minnesota.
He noted “major improvements” in the run game through 3 1/2 quarters, before the Golden Gophers tallied 126 yards in the final period and picked up six first downs on 18 total plays. Overall, Minnesota went 9 of 13 on third down, an obvious disappointment for Clune.
2. Still, Clune emphasizes that he likes the Beavers’ mentality — and production — during practice. He also realizes that doesn’t matter much when OSU ranks 128th out of 130 teams nationally in scoring defense.