Gophers' bowl week schedule

A look at Minnesota events in Orlando this week (all times Central):

• Gophers practice at 11:30 a.m. The Gophers are holding their pre-bowl practices at Freedom High School in Orlando.

• The Citrus Bowl stadium is hosting more than the Citrus Bowl game this week: the Russell Athletic Bowl kicks off at 4:30 p.m. Oklahoma takes on Clemson.

• The parade is at 9 a.m. in downtown Orlando. Billed as "one of Central Florida's longest-running traditions," the Florida Citrus Parade features floats, marching bands from across the country and Citrus Bowl university bands. The grand marshal will be former NBA All-Star Grant Hill. Minnesota's VIP Guest will be All-Star closer Glen Perkins, and Missouri's VIP will be its chancellor, R. Bowen Loftin.

• Select Gophers players and the coordinators will participate in a news conference at a Buffalo Wild Wings (the game's sponsor) in Orlando before practice.

• Gophers practice at 12:30 p.m.

• The head coaches will be featured at a 10 a.m. news conference at the Hyatt Regency Orlando.

• Minnesota's official pep rally will be held at 3:45 p.m. in Orlando. The Gophers' band and spirit squad will perform, and Jerry Kill will make an appearance at the free event.

• Several parties for Gophers fans will follow, including the 'Sota Social event at the Hyatt Regency Orlando's ballroom. That free event will feature Kill, athletic director Norwood Teague and U President Eric Kaler.

• Pregame tailgates will happen around the stadium, including the U of M Alumni Association Pregame Tailgate kitty-corner from the stadium