Joe Maiorana-USA TODAY Sports Late flashes of an offense, but not much else. Despite the exuberance of pre-game predictions, I think it was clear that Minnesota was unlikely to pull an upset. For most of the game, it was an open question if the Gophers would even score. The team managed to make the game mildly interesting before a missed defensive assignment led to a Cardale Jones rushing touchdown. Before I get to the offense, I want to note that the defense played well for the majority of the game. Eventually, Ohio State figured out a way to attack Minnesota’s quarters coverage (Spoiler, run the QB draw with a bunch of fake go routes), but Minnesota hung with the Buckeyes. The defensive line even sustained actual pressure against a quarterback, something that has happened far too little this season. One wonders what they could have done with Steven Richardson manning the interior. Unless there is a sea change, Minnesota under Kill/Claeys/Sawvel will bring a tough, aggressive, defense to each and every game. For the team to make the next jump, there needs to be a consistent offensive performance of the same caliber. Drive Summary Several takeaways from this chart. …
Continue Reading: Minnesota Football-Charting the Ohio State Game
