Gophers cornerback Justin Walley, safety Aidan Gousby will miss Iowa game

The two defensive backs were injured last week in a victory over Nevada.

The Minnesota Star Tribune
September 21, 2024 at 9:51PM
Gophers cornerback Justin Walley (5) broke up a pass intended for Rhode Island wide receiver Shawn Harris Jr., leading to an interception by Gophers safety Aidan Gousby during Minnesota's 48-0 victory on Sept. 7. (Alex Kormann/The Minnesota Star Tribune)

The Gophers showed off depth in their secondary in last week’s victory over Nevada, and on Saturday night, that depth will be tested again against Iowa because two starters will be missing because of injuries.

Senior cornerback Justin Walley and sophomore safety Aidan Gousby were listed as out on the Big Ten availability report that was released two hours before the 6:30 p.m. kickoff. at Huntington Bank Stadium Both Walley (knee) and Gousby (upper body) were injured in the 27-0 victory over Nevada.

Walley, who has been a starter since midway through his freshman season, has eight tackles, one interception and one pass breakup this season. Za’Quan Bryan is a possibility to replace Walley.

Gousby has six tackles and an interception. Darius Green could be in line to fill Gousby’s spot, while Coleman Bryson and freshman Koi Perich might see more playing time.

Listed as questionable on the availability report was defensive lineman Logan Richter, who has two tackles in two games played. Also listed as out were defensive back Jordan Greenhow, defensive lineman Jaylin Hicks and Theorin Randle, running back Kaeden Johnson and tight end Pierce Walsh.

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Randy Johnson

College football reporter

Randy Johnson covers University of Minnesota football and college football for the Star Tribune, along with Gophers hockey and the Wild.

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