The Call: Gophers vs. Wisconsin
November 28, 2015 at 3:19AM
This game has brought out the worst for Gophers QBs. In 2011, MarQueis Gray completed six of 14 passes for 51 yards. In 2012, Philip Nelson was 13-for-24 for 149 yards with two picks. In 2013, Nelson was 7-for-23 for 83 yards. Last year, Mitch Leidner was 5-for-18 for 95 yards. Advantage: Wisconsin
SPECIAL TEAMS
The Gophers are better across the board in this category but need to contain Natrell Jamerson, who had a 98-yard kickoff return against Maryland. Advantage: Gophers
Player to watch
Wisconsin senior linebacker Joe Schobert is tied for third in the nation with 18.5 tackles for loss and tied for fifth with four forced fumbles. Nicknamed "Joe the Show," the former walk-on is a semifinalist for the Bednarik Award, given to the nation's top defensive player.
THE OPPONENT
Wisconsin is coming off an agonizing loss to Northwestern. From the 1-yard line, Joel Stave appeared to throw the winning touchdown pass to Jazz Peavy, but the play was overturned. Stave took a sack, knocking him from the game On the final play, Bart Houston threw incomplete.
GOPHERS DEFENSE VS. BADGERS OFFENSE
Joel Stave has led the Badgers to three career wins over Minnesota with steady if unspectacular play. But Wisconsin needs him to throw more now, and he struggles under pressure. Stave had two interceptions and two fumbles last week against Northwestern. Advantage: Gophers
INTANGIBLES
Players need to guard against being too emotional. They must win to become bowl-eligible, and Jerry Kill will be there for the first time since retiring Oct. 28. Advantage: Gophers
JOE'S PREDICTION
20 17
MINN WIS
Trailing 17-13, Leidner leads the Gophers on another late-game touchdown drive, letting Minnesota finally celebrate again with the Axe.
about the writer
The Gophers quarterback believed in himself, and his transfer to the U has led to a winning record this season.
