Big Ten Football Recap, Part Two

The Minnesota Golden Gophers created a large ruckus in the Big Ten with their 7-1 record in November, but then hit a slope that had the Gophers end the season with a 7-5 record, losing to Northwestern, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Iowa, all but one being or becoming bowl eligible. Throughout the season, this Gophers team showed flaws and holes a plenty, but they got the wins when they needed. Yes, the teams they beat were the very talented group of Northern Illinois, Bowling Green, Montana State, and Florida Atlantic, but they got the wins nonetheless. This Minnesota team shows the country the weakness of the Big Ten, especially when it comes to the weak out-of-conference schedule. The Golden Gophers needed this season so they could open their new stadium on a good note, but unless they do some serious reconstruction on the roster, they will falter next season, as well. They will need to depend on Hayo Carpenter to be a fresh welcome to the receiving corps and fellow four-star prospect Hasan ... (link)