3yardsandacloud
Administrator Emeritus
2006 Minnesota Golden Gophers - Additional Information
Coaching Staff
Head Coach:
Official School Bio - Glenn Mason
Assistant Coaches:
Official School Bios - Assistant Coaches
Mitch Browning - Assistant Head Coach-Offensive Coordinator
David Lockwood - Assistant Coach-Defensive Coordinator/Outside Linebackers
Tony Petersen - Assistant Coach-Passing Game Coord./Quarterbacks
Vic Adamle - Assistant Coach-Running Backs
Carey Bailey - Assistant Coach-Defensive Line
Craig Bray - Assistant Coach-Defensive Secondary
Mark Criner - Assistant Coach-Linebackers
Gordon Shaw- Assistant Coach-Guards and Centers
Luke Tressel - Assistant Coach-Wide Receivers
Jeremiah Carter - Offensive Graduate Assistant
Warren Miller - Defensive Graduate Assistant
Tim Allen - Assistant Athletic Director - Director of Football Operations
Shannon Bertram - Assistant Director-Football Operations/Recruiting Coordinator
Dwayne Chandler - Associate Director-Head Strength and Conditioning
Blake Cundiff - Assistant Director-Strength and Conditioning
Ed Lochrie - Head Football Trainer
Official School Bio - Glenn Mason
Assistant Coaches:
Official School Bios - Assistant Coaches
Mitch Browning - Assistant Head Coach-Offensive Coordinator
David Lockwood - Assistant Coach-Defensive Coordinator/Outside Linebackers
Tony Petersen - Assistant Coach-Passing Game Coord./Quarterbacks
Vic Adamle - Assistant Coach-Running Backs
Carey Bailey - Assistant Coach-Defensive Line
Craig Bray - Assistant Coach-Defensive Secondary
Mark Criner - Assistant Coach-Linebackers
Gordon Shaw- Assistant Coach-Guards and Centers
Luke Tressel - Assistant Coach-Wide Receivers
Jeremiah Carter - Offensive Graduate Assistant
Warren Miller - Defensive Graduate Assistant
Tim Allen - Assistant Athletic Director - Director of Football Operations
Shannon Bertram - Assistant Director-Football Operations/Recruiting Coordinator
Dwayne Chandler - Associate Director-Head Strength and Conditioning
Blake Cundiff - Assistant Director-Strength and Conditioning
Ed Lochrie - Head Football Trainer
Recruiting
Starters Returning: 16 (Offense 7, Defense 7, Special Teams 2)
Letterman Returning: 31 (Offense 12, Defense 15, Special Teams 4)
Notable Returners:
QB Bryan Cupito, WR Ernie Wheelwright, TE Matt Spaeth
Starters Lost: 10 (Offense 5, Defense 5, Special Teams 0)
Letterman Lost: 20 (Offense 10, Defense 10, Special Teams 0)
Notable Losses:
RB Laurence Maroney, OL Greg Eslinger, G Mark Setterstrom, DL Anthony Montgomery
Incoming Recruits:
Letterman Returning: 31 (Offense 12, Defense 15, Special Teams 4)
Notable Returners:
QB Bryan Cupito, WR Ernie Wheelwright, TE Matt Spaeth
Starters Lost: 10 (Offense 5, Defense 5, Special Teams 0)
Letterman Lost: 20 (Offense 10, Defense 10, Special Teams 0)
Notable Losses:
RB Laurence Maroney, OL Greg Eslinger, G Mark Setterstrom, DL Anthony Montgomery
Incoming Recruits:
According to the experts, Minnesota's 2005 recruiting class ranked about the middle of the pack for Division I-A schools (55th best nationally by Rivals, and 62nd by Scout). The highlight of the Golden Gophers' class was LB Alex Daniels from Columbus Brookhaven. Despite being the highest ranked linebacker in the state of Ohio (and the #5 overall prospect in the state), Daniels spurned the hometown school for Minnesota, thus becoming the first offered Ohioan in memory to select Minnesota over Ohio State. Ironically, the top 'backer in Minnesota (and the #4 prospect overall in the state), James Laurinaitis, signed with the Buckeyes over his home state school. So far, it looks like the Buckeyes got the better end of the trade, as Lil Animal is an All-American candidate as a sophomore, while Daniels gained about fifty pounds, lost a step or three, and switched his position to running back, where he is a between the tackles plodder for the Golden Gophers (309 yards and 5 TD's on 67 carries, with 155 yards and 3 TD's coming in a season-opening 44-0 blow out of Kent State).
Besides Alex Daniels, the Gophers signed four other Ohioans in 2005, including fellow Brookhaven stars CB Dominic Jones (who started as a true freshman and recorded 55 tackles; this season, he already has 45 tackles and an interception); and WR Keith Massey (red shirted last season, and is currently a reserve defensive back); ATH Mike Chambers from Walsh Jesuit (red shirted last season; has 12 catches for 162 yards this year); and OL Jason Sekinger from Columbus Westland (who is suffering from an asthmatic condition and is not currently with the program - link). During the Glen Mason era, Minnesota has recruited very well in central Ohio, having signed RB Gary Russell (Columbus Walnut Ridge) and QB Mike Maciejowski (Upper Arlington) in 2004; FB Justin Valentine (Columbus Eastmoor) and WR Ernie Wheelright (Columbus Walnut Ridge) in 2003; and CB Trumaine Banks (Columbus Eastmoor) and WR Quentin White (Gahanna Lincoln) in 2002. Two other central Ohioans, QB David Wess (Whitehall, class of 2004) and LB Justiss Scales (Columbus Beechcroft, class of 2002), also signed with the Gophers; Wess didn't make his grades and transferred to Cincinnati, and Scales ended up going the JUCO route. Several other Ohio preppers are currently on the Minnesota roster, including starting quarterback Bryan Cupito, who graduated from Cincinnati McNicholas in 2002.
The Golden Gophers thought that they had gotten a late bonus to their 2005 recruiting efforts when the number one prospect in the state of Minnesota for the class of 2004, Walker Ashley, committed in August. Ashley originally signed with Southern Cal, selecting the Trojans over Ohio State and Penn State, but he was unable to clear admissions at USC. After briefly reconsidering his other top choices, Walker decided to stay close to home and attend the University of Minnesota. But, not so fast, my friend.... Things didn't work out for Ashley at Minnesota, and the highly-rated defensive line prospect enrolled in Southern Cal this spring, thus ending a two-year long recruiting odyssey.
The Minnesota Golden Gophers Class of 2005
The Golden Gophers signed four more Ohioan in their class of 2006 - offensive lineman Dominic Alford from Shaker Heights; offensive lineman D.J. Burris from Kenton; wide receiver Jamar Howard from Cincinnati Withrow; and running back Terrence Sherrer from Cincinnati Colerain. Alford is listed as a third-string tackle, while Burris has yet to crack the depth chart. Many thought that Howard - a six-foot-five receiver with good speed, was an OSU-caliber recruit, but he had some academic issues which prevented his gaining admission to Minnesota. At Cincinnati Colerain, Sherrer was a classmate of Buckeye signees Connor Smith and Tyler Moeller; as a true freshman this season, Terrence has 102 yards rushing and a touchdown.
Linebacker Tommy Becker was a teammate of Buckeye middle linebacker James Laurinaitis at Plymouth Wayzata High School; like Laurinaitis, Becker also was very interested in Ohio State, but the Buckeye staff didn't offer, and Tommy signed with the home state school. Another Minnesotan who checked out the Buckeys was quarterback Adam Weber, who camped at Ohio State, but also was not offered.
Both Rivals and Scout ranked Minnesota's class the 62-best in the nation.
The Minnesota Golden Gophers Class of 2006
The Gophers have a great start to their 2007 recruiting class, as they already have 15 verbal commitments, including pledges from ten of the top thirteen players in state. This recent trend is quite a change from past years, in which Minnesota has lost a large percentage of the home-grown talent: In 2006, the Golden Gophers lost all of the top 5 players in state (including top OL Matt Carufel to Notre Dame), and signed only 3 of the top 10; they suffered similar losses in 2005 (top four prospects went out of state, including James Laurinaitis to OSU); 2004 (lost top four prospects and signed only 3 of the top 10); and 2003 (lost top six prospects and signed only 3 of top 10). If the Minnesota coaching staff can lock down the home turf, and continue to make inroads into states with a wealth of talent like Ohio, Illinois, and Florida, then the Gophers may be able to secure a spot in the upper echelon of the Big Ten. However, if the home-grown talent keeps bolting for Ohio State, Notre Dame, Wisconsin, and Nebraska, then Minnesota will have a tough time staying competitive.
Besides Alex Daniels, the Gophers signed four other Ohioans in 2005, including fellow Brookhaven stars CB Dominic Jones (who started as a true freshman and recorded 55 tackles; this season, he already has 45 tackles and an interception); and WR Keith Massey (red shirted last season, and is currently a reserve defensive back); ATH Mike Chambers from Walsh Jesuit (red shirted last season; has 12 catches for 162 yards this year); and OL Jason Sekinger from Columbus Westland (who is suffering from an asthmatic condition and is not currently with the program - link). During the Glen Mason era, Minnesota has recruited very well in central Ohio, having signed RB Gary Russell (Columbus Walnut Ridge) and QB Mike Maciejowski (Upper Arlington) in 2004; FB Justin Valentine (Columbus Eastmoor) and WR Ernie Wheelright (Columbus Walnut Ridge) in 2003; and CB Trumaine Banks (Columbus Eastmoor) and WR Quentin White (Gahanna Lincoln) in 2002. Two other central Ohioans, QB David Wess (Whitehall, class of 2004) and LB Justiss Scales (Columbus Beechcroft, class of 2002), also signed with the Gophers; Wess didn't make his grades and transferred to Cincinnati, and Scales ended up going the JUCO route. Several other Ohio preppers are currently on the Minnesota roster, including starting quarterback Bryan Cupito, who graduated from Cincinnati McNicholas in 2002.
The Golden Gophers thought that they had gotten a late bonus to their 2005 recruiting efforts when the number one prospect in the state of Minnesota for the class of 2004, Walker Ashley, committed in August. Ashley originally signed with Southern Cal, selecting the Trojans over Ohio State and Penn State, but he was unable to clear admissions at USC. After briefly reconsidering his other top choices, Walker decided to stay close to home and attend the University of Minnesota. But, not so fast, my friend.... Things didn't work out for Ashley at Minnesota, and the highly-rated defensive line prospect enrolled in Southern Cal this spring, thus ending a two-year long recruiting odyssey.
The Minnesota Golden Gophers Class of 2005
[strike]DL Walker Ashley, Eden Prairie, Minnesota (6' 5", 285 lbs, 4.9 forty); Rivals 4* (#1 in Minnesota); Scout 4*[/strike]
[strike]DB Jeff Brooks, Miami Killian (5' 10", 185 lbs, 4.39 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*[/strike]
ATH Mike Chambers, Walsh Jesuit (6' 0", 175 lbs, 4.72 forty); Rivals 3* (#28 in Ohio); Scout 2*
[strike]WR Richard Christy, Miami Killian (5' 10", 160 lbs, 4.45 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*[/strike]
[strike]DB Boyd Coleman, Marietta (Georgia) Wheeler (5' 11", 170 lbs, 4.45 forty); Rivals 3*; Scout 2*[/strike]
ATH Alex Daniels, Columbus Brookhaven (6' 2", 219 lbs, 4.59 forty); Rivals 4* (#5 in Ohio); Scout 4*
LB Steve Davis, Florissant (Missouri) McCluer North (6' 3", 225 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 3* (#13 in Missouri); Scout 3*
WR Eric Decker, Cold Spring (Minnesota) Rocori (6' 3", 195 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
OL Otis Hudson, Barrington, Illinois (6' 5", 287 lbs, 4.9 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DB Dominic Jones, Columbus Brookhaven (5' 8", 177 lbs, 4.41 forty); Rivals 3* (#23 in Ohio); Scout 2*
[strike]QB Marcel Jones, Shakopee (Minnesota) Simley (6' 4", 205 lbs, 4.65 forty); Rivals 3* (#6 in Minnesota); Scout 2*[/strike]
ATH Keith Massey, Columbus Brookhaven (6' 0", 186 lbs, 4.52 forty); Rivals 3* (#29 in Ohio); Scout 2*
DB Michael McKelton, West Palm Beach (Florida) Royal Palm Beach (5' 11", 172 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
TE Chris Mensen, Solon, Iowa (6' 6", 235 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
TE Troy Reilly, Stevens Point, Wisconsin (6' 7", 235 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 3*
OL Ryan Ruckdashel, Apple Valley (Minnesota) Eastview (6' 5", 254 lbs, 5.28 forty); Rivals 3* (#9 in Minnesota); Scout 3*
[strike]OL Jason Sekinger, Columbus Westland (6' 9", 310 lbs, 5.4 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*[/strike]
DE Matt Stommes, Eden Valley (Minnesota) Watkins (6' 7", 235 lbs, 5.0 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
OL Ned Tavale, St. Paul Cretin-Derham Hall (6' 3", 305 lbs); Rivals 3* (#7 in Minnesota); Scout 3*
RB Jay Thomas, Oakdale (Minnesota) Tartan (6' 0", 180 lbs, 4.56 forty); Rivals 3* (#8 in Minnesota); Scout 2*
LB Nate Triplett, Delano, Minnesota (6' 3", 220 lbs, 4.6 forty); Rivals 3* (#5 in Minnesota); Scout 3*
[strike]DB Jeff Brooks, Miami Killian (5' 10", 185 lbs, 4.39 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*[/strike]
ATH Mike Chambers, Walsh Jesuit (6' 0", 175 lbs, 4.72 forty); Rivals 3* (#28 in Ohio); Scout 2*
[strike]WR Richard Christy, Miami Killian (5' 10", 160 lbs, 4.45 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*[/strike]
[strike]DB Boyd Coleman, Marietta (Georgia) Wheeler (5' 11", 170 lbs, 4.45 forty); Rivals 3*; Scout 2*[/strike]
ATH Alex Daniels, Columbus Brookhaven (6' 2", 219 lbs, 4.59 forty); Rivals 4* (#5 in Ohio); Scout 4*
LB Steve Davis, Florissant (Missouri) McCluer North (6' 3", 225 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 3* (#13 in Missouri); Scout 3*
WR Eric Decker, Cold Spring (Minnesota) Rocori (6' 3", 195 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
OL Otis Hudson, Barrington, Illinois (6' 5", 287 lbs, 4.9 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DB Dominic Jones, Columbus Brookhaven (5' 8", 177 lbs, 4.41 forty); Rivals 3* (#23 in Ohio); Scout 2*
[strike]QB Marcel Jones, Shakopee (Minnesota) Simley (6' 4", 205 lbs, 4.65 forty); Rivals 3* (#6 in Minnesota); Scout 2*[/strike]
ATH Keith Massey, Columbus Brookhaven (6' 0", 186 lbs, 4.52 forty); Rivals 3* (#29 in Ohio); Scout 2*
DB Michael McKelton, West Palm Beach (Florida) Royal Palm Beach (5' 11", 172 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
TE Chris Mensen, Solon, Iowa (6' 6", 235 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
TE Troy Reilly, Stevens Point, Wisconsin (6' 7", 235 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 3*
OL Ryan Ruckdashel, Apple Valley (Minnesota) Eastview (6' 5", 254 lbs, 5.28 forty); Rivals 3* (#9 in Minnesota); Scout 3*
[strike]OL Jason Sekinger, Columbus Westland (6' 9", 310 lbs, 5.4 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*[/strike]
DE Matt Stommes, Eden Valley (Minnesota) Watkins (6' 7", 235 lbs, 5.0 forty); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
OL Ned Tavale, St. Paul Cretin-Derham Hall (6' 3", 305 lbs); Rivals 3* (#7 in Minnesota); Scout 3*
RB Jay Thomas, Oakdale (Minnesota) Tartan (6' 0", 180 lbs, 4.56 forty); Rivals 3* (#8 in Minnesota); Scout 2*
LB Nate Triplett, Delano, Minnesota (6' 3", 220 lbs, 4.6 forty); Rivals 3* (#5 in Minnesota); Scout 3*
The Golden Gophers signed four more Ohioan in their class of 2006 - offensive lineman Dominic Alford from Shaker Heights; offensive lineman D.J. Burris from Kenton; wide receiver Jamar Howard from Cincinnati Withrow; and running back Terrence Sherrer from Cincinnati Colerain. Alford is listed as a third-string tackle, while Burris has yet to crack the depth chart. Many thought that Howard - a six-foot-five receiver with good speed, was an OSU-caliber recruit, but he had some academic issues which prevented his gaining admission to Minnesota. At Cincinnati Colerain, Sherrer was a classmate of Buckeye signees Connor Smith and Tyler Moeller; as a true freshman this season, Terrence has 102 yards rushing and a touchdown.
Linebacker Tommy Becker was a teammate of Buckeye middle linebacker James Laurinaitis at Plymouth Wayzata High School; like Laurinaitis, Becker also was very interested in Ohio State, but the Buckeye staff didn't offer, and Tommy signed with the home state school. Another Minnesotan who checked out the Buckeys was quarterback Adam Weber, who camped at Ohio State, but also was not offered.
Both Rivals and Scout ranked Minnesota's class the 62-best in the nation.
The Minnesota Golden Gophers Class of 2006
OL Dominic Alford, Shaker Heights, Ohio (6' 2", 308 lbs); Rivals 2* (#58 in Ohio); Scout 2*
LB Tommy Becker, Plymouth (Minnesota) Wayzata (6' 2", 230 lbs, 4.59 forty); Rivals 3* (#8 in Minnesota); Scout 2*
OL Andy Brinkhaus, Bloomington (Minnesota) Jefferson (6' 4", 270 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DL Garrett Brown, Fairfield Prep (6' 2", 286); Rivals 3* (Prep School); Scout 2*
DB R.J. Buckner, Keller (Texas) Harvest Christian (5' 11", 190 lbs, 4.71 forty, 4.03 shuttle); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
OL D.J. Burris, Kenton, Ohio (6' 2", 273 lbs); RIvals 3* (#43 in Ohio); Scout 2*
[strike]RB Brylee Callender, Feather River C.C. (6' 0", 195 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 3* (JUCO); Scout 3*[/strike]
LB Lee Campbell, Naples Gulf Coast (6' 3", 220 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DB Duran Cooley, Reedley J.C. (6' 2", 205 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 2* (JUCO); Scout 1*
DE Willie Dyson, Kirkwood, Missouri (6' 3", 220 lbs, 4.67 forty); Rivals 2* (#20 in Missouri); Scout 3*
PK Eric Ellestad, Brooklyn Park (Minnesota) Robinsdale Armstrong (6' 3", 180 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
WR Ben Fischer, Wassua (Wisconsin) East (6' 2", 180 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 2* (#7 in Wisconsin); Scout 2*
[strike]WR Jamar Howard, Cincinnati Withrow (6' 5", 200 lbs, 4.6 forty); Rivals 3* (#21 in Ohio); Scout [/strike]
ATH E.J. Jones, Edwardsville, Illinois (5' 11", 185 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout
DB Daron Love, Palm Beach Gardens (Florida) William T. Dwyer (6' 1", 185 lbs); Rival NR; Scout NR
DE Robert McField, St. Louis Normandy (6' 6", 225 lbs, 4.75 forty); Rivals 3* (#7 in Missouri); Scout 2*
DE Sean McWhirter, Maple Plain (Minnesota) Orono (6' 4", 245 lbs, 4.72 forty); Rivals 3* (#6 in Minnesota); Scout 3*
DB Josh Robertson, Lackawanna J.C. (5' 11", 175 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 2* (JUCO); Scout 2*
[strike]LB Rudy Robinson, Pahokee, Florida (6' 1", 220 lbs, 4.45 forty); Rivals NR; Scout [/strike]
RB Terrence Sherrer, Cincinnati Colerain (5' 11", 197 lbs, 4.45 forty); Rivals 3* (#25 in Ohio); Scout 2*
QB Adam Weber, Shoreview (Minnesota) Mounds View (6' 2", 200 lbs, 4.82 forty); Rivals 3* (#7 in Minnesota); Scout 3*
LB Mike Wey, Oak Creek, Wisconsin (6' 3", 230 lbs, 4.6 forty); Rivals 2* (#9 in Wisconsin); Scout 2*
LB Tommy Becker, Plymouth (Minnesota) Wayzata (6' 2", 230 lbs, 4.59 forty); Rivals 3* (#8 in Minnesota); Scout 2*
OL Andy Brinkhaus, Bloomington (Minnesota) Jefferson (6' 4", 270 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DL Garrett Brown, Fairfield Prep (6' 2", 286); Rivals 3* (Prep School); Scout 2*
DB R.J. Buckner, Keller (Texas) Harvest Christian (5' 11", 190 lbs, 4.71 forty, 4.03 shuttle); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
OL D.J. Burris, Kenton, Ohio (6' 2", 273 lbs); RIvals 3* (#43 in Ohio); Scout 2*
[strike]RB Brylee Callender, Feather River C.C. (6' 0", 195 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 3* (JUCO); Scout 3*[/strike]
LB Lee Campbell, Naples Gulf Coast (6' 3", 220 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
DB Duran Cooley, Reedley J.C. (6' 2", 205 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 2* (JUCO); Scout 1*
DE Willie Dyson, Kirkwood, Missouri (6' 3", 220 lbs, 4.67 forty); Rivals 2* (#20 in Missouri); Scout 3*
PK Eric Ellestad, Brooklyn Park (Minnesota) Robinsdale Armstrong (6' 3", 180 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout 2*
WR Ben Fischer, Wassua (Wisconsin) East (6' 2", 180 lbs, 4.4 forty); Rivals 2* (#7 in Wisconsin); Scout 2*
[strike]WR Jamar Howard, Cincinnati Withrow (6' 5", 200 lbs, 4.6 forty); Rivals 3* (#21 in Ohio); Scout [/strike]
ATH E.J. Jones, Edwardsville, Illinois (5' 11", 185 lbs); Rivals 2*; Scout
DB Daron Love, Palm Beach Gardens (Florida) William T. Dwyer (6' 1", 185 lbs); Rival NR; Scout NR
DE Robert McField, St. Louis Normandy (6' 6", 225 lbs, 4.75 forty); Rivals 3* (#7 in Missouri); Scout 2*
DE Sean McWhirter, Maple Plain (Minnesota) Orono (6' 4", 245 lbs, 4.72 forty); Rivals 3* (#6 in Minnesota); Scout 3*
DB Josh Robertson, Lackawanna J.C. (5' 11", 175 lbs, 4.5 forty); Rivals 2* (JUCO); Scout 2*
[strike]LB Rudy Robinson, Pahokee, Florida (6' 1", 220 lbs, 4.45 forty); Rivals NR; Scout [/strike]
RB Terrence Sherrer, Cincinnati Colerain (5' 11", 197 lbs, 4.45 forty); Rivals 3* (#25 in Ohio); Scout 2*
QB Adam Weber, Shoreview (Minnesota) Mounds View (6' 2", 200 lbs, 4.82 forty); Rivals 3* (#7 in Minnesota); Scout 3*
LB Mike Wey, Oak Creek, Wisconsin (6' 3", 230 lbs, 4.6 forty); Rivals 2* (#9 in Wisconsin); Scout 2*
The Gophers have a great start to their 2007 recruiting class, as they already have 15 verbal commitments, including pledges from ten of the top thirteen players in state. This recent trend is quite a change from past years, in which Minnesota has lost a large percentage of the home-grown talent: In 2006, the Golden Gophers lost all of the top 5 players in state (including top OL Matt Carufel to Notre Dame), and signed only 3 of the top 10; they suffered similar losses in 2005 (top four prospects went out of state, including James Laurinaitis to OSU); 2004 (lost top four prospects and signed only 3 of the top 10); and 2003 (lost top six prospects and signed only 3 of top 10). If the Minnesota coaching staff can lock down the home turf, and continue to make inroads into states with a wealth of talent like Ohio, Illinois, and Florida, then the Gophers may be able to secure a spot in the upper echelon of the Big Ten. However, if the home-grown talent keeps bolting for Ohio State, Notre Dame, Wisconsin, and Nebraska, then Minnesota will have a tough time staying competitive.
Behind the Numbers
On the surface, this appears to be a matchup between a statistically outstanding team and a team that practically defines statistical mediocrity. But looking Behind the Numbers means looking at how numbers are compiled. That is what really separates this week's combatants.
Of course, it is helpful to look at the surface before peering deeper to see why the surface looks as it does. To that end, here are the raw stats for OSU and Minnesota. Remember that here at BtN, we eliminate all games against I-AA competition when compiling stats. The averages and rankings below will therefore differ from what you see elsewhere.
Of course, it is helpful to look at the surface before peering deeper to see why the surface looks as it does. To that end, here are the raw stats for OSU and Minnesota. Remember that here at BtN, we eliminate all games against I-AA competition when compiling stats. The averages and rankings below will therefore differ from what you see elsewhere.
Overall - Yards/Points
............................OHIO STATE..rk............Minnesota........rk
Total Offense..........410.13 ypg....18.............375.29 ypg....32
Diff. Total Offense....121.0%........14.............112.8%.........31
Total Defense..........270.88 ypg...12.............391.57 ypg....95
Diff. Total Defense.....70.2%.........6.............110.3%..........87
Scoring Offense.........34.88 ppg....11..............28.14 ppg....29
Diff. score Offense....153.4%........12.............131.5%.........24
Scoring Defense..........8.25 ppg.....1..............24.71 ppg.....69
Diff. score Defense.....28.6%..........1.............97.8%..........57
Diff. Total Offense....121.0%........14.............112.8%.........31
Total Defense..........270.88 ypg...12.............391.57 ypg....95
Diff. Total Defense.....70.2%.........6.............110.3%..........87
Scoring Offense.........34.88 ppg....11..............28.14 ppg....29
Diff. score Offense....153.4%........12.............131.5%.........24
Scoring Defense..........8.25 ppg.....1..............24.71 ppg.....69
Diff. score Defense.....28.6%..........1.............97.8%..........57
By holding Indiana to a field goal, OSU regained the top spot in scoring defense. They also solidified their spot in #1 in Differential Scoring Defense.
OSU holds teams to 28.6% of their average score. No other team holds teams to less than 1/3 of their average. LSU is #2 in this metric at 36.9%.
OSU holds teams to 28.6% of their average score. No other team holds teams to less than 1/3 of their average. LSU is #2 in this metric at 36.9%.
While it is interesting to note that OSU is superior to Minnesota in all of these metrics; the most useful feature of the above table is that it can be used to provide a pair of "predictions" for the outcome of Saturday's contest.
Multiplying average offense by the other team's differential defense gives one "prediction". Multiplying differential offense by the other team's average defense provides the other "prediction". The two sets of numbers provide the following ranges.
Multiplying average offense by the other team's differential defense gives one "prediction". Multiplying differential offense by the other team's average defense provides the other "prediction". The two sets of numbers provide the following ranges.
Ohio State:....452 - 474 yards
Minnesota:.....264 - 306 yards
Ohio State:....34 - 38 points
Minnesota:.....8 - 11 points
Minnesota:.....264 - 306 yards
Ohio State:....34 - 38 points
Minnesota:.....8 - 11 points
Shut-Out Possible?
As we've seen the last couple of weeks, DSA is good at predicting scores in the twenties and up. For mismatches though, the form of DSA used here tends to inflate the underdog's ability to score. OSU has held their opponent to less than DSA's prediction in every game but one this year.
This leaves us with the real possibility of a shut-out this week. Undoubtedly, the Buckeyes are overdue. They have only 1 shut-out in their past 102 games. Minnesota, by contrast, has 2 shut-outs this year.
As we've seen the last couple of weeks, DSA is good at predicting scores in the twenties and up. For mismatches though, the form of DSA used here tends to inflate the underdog's ability to score. OSU has held their opponent to less than DSA's prediction in every game but one this year.
This leaves us with the real possibility of a shut-out this week. Undoubtedly, the Buckeyes are overdue. They have only 1 shut-out in their past 102 games. Minnesota, by contrast, has 2 shut-outs this year.
Under the Surface
Now that we have our prediction; let's take a look at how these teams arrived at the numbers they've compiled.
In examining Differential Offense and Defense, OSU has been remarkably consistent this year. In general they have had their best games against the best competition, with a secondary trend showing improvement over the course of the season.
Minnesota on the other hand has fattened up on the weaklings lining their non-conference schedule, while their conference slate has pulled their numbers down into the mediocre range they currently occupy.
This was especially true defensively. Against teams NOT named Kent St., Temple or North Dakota St., Minnesota gave up:
This is where it pays to look Behind the Numbers. DSA usually provides reasonable predictions, but by looking at the way Minnesota compiled their numbers, we can see that OSU will be able to produce more than the "predicted" yards and points if they are so inclined.
Then there is that passing efficiency number. This is what you would call a "match-up problem" for Minnesota. When a team gives up an average rating of 180.72 against the teams listed above, you can bet Troy will have a rating in excess of 200.
Looking Deeper
As with last week, it is instructive to look at third down performance when examining this week's match-up. Taking every team in Division IA and subtracting their 3rd down defense from their 3rd down conversion percentage on offense, we arrive at the following rankings:
In examining Differential Offense and Defense, OSU has been remarkably consistent this year. In general they have had their best games against the best competition, with a secondary trend showing improvement over the course of the season.
Minnesota on the other hand has fattened up on the weaklings lining their non-conference schedule, while their conference slate has pulled their numbers down into the mediocre range they currently occupy.
This was especially true defensively. Against teams NOT named Kent St., Temple or North Dakota St., Minnesota gave up:
- 460.4 yards per game
- 34.6 points per game
- Defensive passing efficiency: 180.72
- California
- Purdue
- Michigan
- Penn St.
- Wisconsin
This is where it pays to look Behind the Numbers. DSA usually provides reasonable predictions, but by looking at the way Minnesota compiled their numbers, we can see that OSU will be able to produce more than the "predicted" yards and points if they are so inclined.
Then there is that passing efficiency number. This is what you would call a "match-up problem" for Minnesota. When a team gives up an average rating of 180.72 against the teams listed above, you can bet Troy will have a rating in excess of 200.
Looking Deeper
As with last week, it is instructive to look at third down performance when examining this week's match-up. Taking every team in Division IA and subtracting their 3rd down defense from their 3rd down conversion percentage on offense, we arrive at the following rankings:
Rank.....TEAM................3rd dn O minus 3rd dn D
1..........LSU...................26.82%
2..........Texas A&M.........23.28%
3..........Louisville............20.33%
4..........Wisconsin...........20.10%
5..........Tennessee..........18.82%
6..........OSU...................18.73%
7..........Rutgers...............17.57%
8..........BYU....................17.47%
9..........NMSU..................16.25%
10.........California.............15.77%
.
.
.
102........Minnesota...............-10.78%
1..........LSU...................26.82%
2..........Texas A&M.........23.28%
3..........Louisville............20.33%
4..........Wisconsin...........20.10%
5..........Tennessee..........18.82%
6..........OSU...................18.73%
7..........Rutgers...............17.57%
8..........BYU....................17.47%
9..........NMSU..................16.25%
10.........California.............15.77%
.
.
.
102........Minnesota...............-10.78%
While Minnesota is superior to Indiana in most statistics; they actually trail the Hoosiers in this critical metric. This is another case of a match-up problem for the Golden Gophers.
Conclusion
While Minnesota looks average, statistically; by looking deeper we have exposed weaknesses that lie in the sweet-spot of OSU's strengths.
Based soley on the analysis above, and without even considering the direction that the Gophers' season is headed:
While Minnesota looks average, statistically; by looking deeper we have exposed weaknesses that lie in the sweet-spot of OSU's strengths.
Based soley on the analysis above, and without even considering the direction that the Gophers' season is headed:
- Look for 3rd down to be a money down for the Buckeyes, both offensively and defensively.
- Look for Troy to have a career day, even by his lofty standards.
- Look for space on your DVR (TiVo). The NC/Heisman Highlight Reels are going to get a lot longer this weekend.
The Lighter Side
Why was Buckeye Nation furious about the Indiana game getting aired only on ESPNU? I mean, it's just Indiana. Well, here's why. Ohio State plays 13 games this season (Including the bowl game). At approximately 3 hours per game, there are only 39 hours a year in which to see the Buckeyes playing football. Think about that - out of 8,760 hours available in one year, a paltry 39 are available for us to enjoy the team we love. In other words, for 99.995% of the year, Ohio State is NOT playing. Miss this game? No way. That's why I was willing to drive 200 miles round trip to see it. Did I expect to be treated to a real nail-biter, rewarding my mileage? Of course not. The plain fact is, I am simply unwilling to give up 3 of an already ridiculously small number of hours a year to enjoy watching my favorite team. If Ohio State had won 222 - 0, I would have watched every second of it, cherishing each and every instant.
So, myself and 105,267 at the Shoe, along with some relative handful of bar-goers and people with access to ESPNU watched the 44 - 3 beat-down. We saw Ted Ginn's first TD throw live. We watched the Defense limit the Hoosiers to 7 yards rushing. And we thumbed our noses at the money-grubbing, power-playing network. Take 3 of my 39 hours? I think not. 8-0, and loving every moment of it.
Now, let's think about this. Indiana came in to the Shoe riding a two game win streak, having beat an Iowa team that some *cough* Trev Alberts *cough* were predicting would be the class of the Big Ten this year. Despite that, ESPN was willing to attempt to take these precious moments from you. So, one wonders - if they were willing to take away the Indiana game, wouldn't they also take away the Minnesota game?
Before I get in to the real thing of it, I have to confess, I like Minnesota. I was born there. I lived there. I go back as often as I can. While I've lived in Columbus for over 20 of my 36 years, I have to admit, when I'm in the land of 10,000 lakes, I feel like I'm home. And, because of that, I can't be rough on the Gophers. Before you start to wonder about me, make no mistake, when it comes to college football, there is no conflict - I want the Buckeyes to whip the snot out of the Gophers. Still, any team that has a 100 year rivalry with that school up north is OK in my book.
Anyway, getting back to the point, fact is 2006 is not being kind to the Gophers. After struggling with North Dakota State, eking out a 10 - 9 win, Minnesota stands at 3 - 5 overall, and 0 - 4 in the Big Ten. In contrast, Indiana - before getting shellacked by the Buckeyes, was 4 - 3 overall, and 2 - 1 in the Big Ten. Now, if you're an all powerful, all seeing, all knowing network, which of these two teams would you prefer to relegate to ESPNU for their anticipated beating against the best team in the nation? To me, the choice seems clear - Minnesota. Little known fact - They were going to put this game on ESPNU as well. That was before I convinced them otherwise. What follows is my conversation with George Brodenheimer - ESPN CEO.
Hey George, it's bad enough that your company is trying to take 3 of my 39 hours of Ohio State football this year in placing the Indiana game on ESPNU, but do you really have to take away the Minnesota game too?
Well, we know you Ohio State fans are ... well.. creepy, when it comes to your Buckeyes. I mean, you guys gave Dennis Dodd all he could handle just for writing a piece on great college stadiums. So, because we want the U to be on everyone's cable package, including Columbus' Time Warner, we feel it's in our best interests to use your fandom to our bargaining advantage. No hard feelings, I'm just trying to put food on the table.
OK, George, I get that. I do. And, incidentally, not having the Shoe on any list of great college stadiums is just plain absurd. But, that's not the point here. Look, you wouldn't take the Texas Ohio State game and put it on.. wait a second.. you called it "the U" didn't you? Let's agree not to say those words in reference to your channel, OK? I don't want Hurricane fans thinking we're talking about them, and I sure don't think you want all 17 of them marching up here to Bristol and throwing hands with you.
[We shared a chuckle.]
Anyway.... like I was saying, you wouldn't take a huge game like Ohio State Texas, or Ohio State Michigan and relegate it to ESPNU would you?
Of course not, that'd be suicide. We can maybe mess around with the bottom feeder type games, but taking something like a 1 v 2 matchup? We're not that mean, no matter what Buckeye Nation might think we "have out" for them. [He actually used "air quotes"]
Well, George, here's the thing. The Minnesota game is a biggun.
You can't be serious.
I am serious, George. Dead friggin serious. Look, I know you're a sports guy, so I assumed you already knew. Minnesota has thirteen undefeated seasons in their history. Thirteen, George. That's a lot. Not to mention, they've won the National Championship SIX times. Did you know that George? Indiana, of course, never has. But Minnesota is big time.
Really? I guess I knew that... I mean... ummm... yeah.. of course, I knew that. Why wouldn't I have known that?
I figured you knew, which is why I figured you would be the guy to talk to about putting this game on ESPNU. It's not suited for it. This is a Clash of the Titans type game. Consider this. Minnesota went 35 games without a loss... yes sir.. 34 - 0 - 1 before losing to Wisconsin on November 4, '05. In that time frame, they outscored their opponents, get this, an unreal 1,685 to 24. That's an average score of 48 to .5. Yes, George.. POINT 5. In fact, in a seven year stretch surrounding the 35 game streak, Minnesota won an astonishing 69 of 80 games (69-5-6.) George, that's a winning percentage of 90. Nothing to sneeze at.
Wow. I guess I didn't realize Minnesota was THAT good. I thought they were winless in the Big Ten this year. You sure it was just '05 that they won that many in a row? I thought that was USC... But, I guess the colors are kind of the same... maybe I just mistook the Trojans for the Gophers?
Stick with me George, it was most assuredly '03 through '05. And, unlike USC, Minnesota has actually won 3 straight National Championships. True, they're having a tough year. But, well... you remember 2004, when Ohio State was having a tough time of it, and they beat up the Vulvarines 37 - 21? You certainly wouldn't have put that game on an upstart channel, right. Damn it, George, the Gophers have 18 Big Ten Championships. Only Ohio State and the Vulvarines have more.
The who? Oh... you mean Michigan... no... you're right we wouldn't have put that game on an upstart channel. Really? 18?
Right. Yes, 18... So, as I was saying, if it's an angle you're looking for, considering that the Zoo of M [that's Minnesota] is having a hard go of it, consider this. Ohio State has run off 15 straight wins... longest streak in the nation. And of course, they're looking to make it 16 this weekend. Now, when you think winning streaks, what name comes to mind?
Notre Dame.
No George, not Notre Dame.
Ummm... Are you sure? Not Notre Dame? Give me a minute. Umm... USC?
No George... think. We're talking tradition. We're talking all time greatest. We're talking about...
I GOT IT! Oklahoma. "All time greatest" [again with the air quotes] gave it away. Stoops is awesome, isn't he? Man that 2003 team... [I interrupt]
Right George. Stoops is great, sure. But Bud Wilkinson was even better. His Oklahoma teams from the 50's is what I'm talking about.
Oh yeah... like 47 in a row, wasn't it? I think we named Bud Wilkinson in the top 100 coaches of all time. I'm not sure though, that show's on ESPN Classic. Heh.. even I don't watch that channel.
Yep, 47 in a row. Before that he coached teams that won 31 in a row. But, did you know that Bud Wilkinson was born in Minnesota? Not only that, but he played quarterback and guard at Minnesota leading the Gopher to three national titles from 1934 - 1936, going 23 - 1. I already told you about the 34 - 0 - 1 streak, then there was the 20 game win streak when Wilkinson played, and of course, he went on to win the 31 and then 47 in a row with Oklahoma. You hype up the streak angle. People will love it, and they'll give you a ratings share you'd think was only available to the BCS Championship game, I assure you.
You know, I think you might be on to something there. You know, I'll make a call, and we'll put this game on at 3:30. I can't promise you if it'll be ABC, ESPN or the Deuce, but you're right, this game is too damn big to put on the U... sorry.. ESPNU... I sure am glad we had this talk, I see now putting this game on a non-national channel would be suicide. Hey, you want to come to work for me? I'll move you out to Bristol, company car, TVs... I'll even have Stu read you the paper on Sunday mornings. Or.. if you prefer, I can have Steven A. Smith yell the news at you for a few hours.
No thanks George. No way I'm moving to Connecticut.
So, myself and 105,267 at the Shoe, along with some relative handful of bar-goers and people with access to ESPNU watched the 44 - 3 beat-down. We saw Ted Ginn's first TD throw live. We watched the Defense limit the Hoosiers to 7 yards rushing. And we thumbed our noses at the money-grubbing, power-playing network. Take 3 of my 39 hours? I think not. 8-0, and loving every moment of it.
Now, let's think about this. Indiana came in to the Shoe riding a two game win streak, having beat an Iowa team that some *cough* Trev Alberts *cough* were predicting would be the class of the Big Ten this year. Despite that, ESPN was willing to attempt to take these precious moments from you. So, one wonders - if they were willing to take away the Indiana game, wouldn't they also take away the Minnesota game?
Before I get in to the real thing of it, I have to confess, I like Minnesota. I was born there. I lived there. I go back as often as I can. While I've lived in Columbus for over 20 of my 36 years, I have to admit, when I'm in the land of 10,000 lakes, I feel like I'm home. And, because of that, I can't be rough on the Gophers. Before you start to wonder about me, make no mistake, when it comes to college football, there is no conflict - I want the Buckeyes to whip the snot out of the Gophers. Still, any team that has a 100 year rivalry with that school up north is OK in my book.
Anyway, getting back to the point, fact is 2006 is not being kind to the Gophers. After struggling with North Dakota State, eking out a 10 - 9 win, Minnesota stands at 3 - 5 overall, and 0 - 4 in the Big Ten. In contrast, Indiana - before getting shellacked by the Buckeyes, was 4 - 3 overall, and 2 - 1 in the Big Ten. Now, if you're an all powerful, all seeing, all knowing network, which of these two teams would you prefer to relegate to ESPNU for their anticipated beating against the best team in the nation? To me, the choice seems clear - Minnesota. Little known fact - They were going to put this game on ESPNU as well. That was before I convinced them otherwise. What follows is my conversation with George Brodenheimer - ESPN CEO.
Hey George, it's bad enough that your company is trying to take 3 of my 39 hours of Ohio State football this year in placing the Indiana game on ESPNU, but do you really have to take away the Minnesota game too?
Well, we know you Ohio State fans are ... well.. creepy, when it comes to your Buckeyes. I mean, you guys gave Dennis Dodd all he could handle just for writing a piece on great college stadiums. So, because we want the U to be on everyone's cable package, including Columbus' Time Warner, we feel it's in our best interests to use your fandom to our bargaining advantage. No hard feelings, I'm just trying to put food on the table.
OK, George, I get that. I do. And, incidentally, not having the Shoe on any list of great college stadiums is just plain absurd. But, that's not the point here. Look, you wouldn't take the Texas Ohio State game and put it on.. wait a second.. you called it "the U" didn't you? Let's agree not to say those words in reference to your channel, OK? I don't want Hurricane fans thinking we're talking about them, and I sure don't think you want all 17 of them marching up here to Bristol and throwing hands with you.
[We shared a chuckle.]
Anyway.... like I was saying, you wouldn't take a huge game like Ohio State Texas, or Ohio State Michigan and relegate it to ESPNU would you?
Of course not, that'd be suicide. We can maybe mess around with the bottom feeder type games, but taking something like a 1 v 2 matchup? We're not that mean, no matter what Buckeye Nation might think we "have out" for them. [He actually used "air quotes"]
Well, George, here's the thing. The Minnesota game is a biggun.
You can't be serious.
I am serious, George. Dead friggin serious. Look, I know you're a sports guy, so I assumed you already knew. Minnesota has thirteen undefeated seasons in their history. Thirteen, George. That's a lot. Not to mention, they've won the National Championship SIX times. Did you know that George? Indiana, of course, never has. But Minnesota is big time.
Really? I guess I knew that... I mean... ummm... yeah.. of course, I knew that. Why wouldn't I have known that?
I figured you knew, which is why I figured you would be the guy to talk to about putting this game on ESPNU. It's not suited for it. This is a Clash of the Titans type game. Consider this. Minnesota went 35 games without a loss... yes sir.. 34 - 0 - 1 before losing to Wisconsin on November 4, '05. In that time frame, they outscored their opponents, get this, an unreal 1,685 to 24. That's an average score of 48 to .5. Yes, George.. POINT 5. In fact, in a seven year stretch surrounding the 35 game streak, Minnesota won an astonishing 69 of 80 games (69-5-6.) George, that's a winning percentage of 90. Nothing to sneeze at.
Wow. I guess I didn't realize Minnesota was THAT good. I thought they were winless in the Big Ten this year. You sure it was just '05 that they won that many in a row? I thought that was USC... But, I guess the colors are kind of the same... maybe I just mistook the Trojans for the Gophers?
Stick with me George, it was most assuredly '03 through '05. And, unlike USC, Minnesota has actually won 3 straight National Championships. True, they're having a tough year. But, well... you remember 2004, when Ohio State was having a tough time of it, and they beat up the Vulvarines 37 - 21? You certainly wouldn't have put that game on an upstart channel, right. Damn it, George, the Gophers have 18 Big Ten Championships. Only Ohio State and the Vulvarines have more.
The who? Oh... you mean Michigan... no... you're right we wouldn't have put that game on an upstart channel. Really? 18?
Right. Yes, 18... So, as I was saying, if it's an angle you're looking for, considering that the Zoo of M [that's Minnesota] is having a hard go of it, consider this. Ohio State has run off 15 straight wins... longest streak in the nation. And of course, they're looking to make it 16 this weekend. Now, when you think winning streaks, what name comes to mind?
Notre Dame.
No George, not Notre Dame.
Ummm... Are you sure? Not Notre Dame? Give me a minute. Umm... USC?
No George... think. We're talking tradition. We're talking all time greatest. We're talking about...
I GOT IT! Oklahoma. "All time greatest" [again with the air quotes] gave it away. Stoops is awesome, isn't he? Man that 2003 team... [I interrupt]
Right George. Stoops is great, sure. But Bud Wilkinson was even better. His Oklahoma teams from the 50's is what I'm talking about.
Oh yeah... like 47 in a row, wasn't it? I think we named Bud Wilkinson in the top 100 coaches of all time. I'm not sure though, that show's on ESPN Classic. Heh.. even I don't watch that channel.
Yep, 47 in a row. Before that he coached teams that won 31 in a row. But, did you know that Bud Wilkinson was born in Minnesota? Not only that, but he played quarterback and guard at Minnesota leading the Gopher to three national titles from 1934 - 1936, going 23 - 1. I already told you about the 34 - 0 - 1 streak, then there was the 20 game win streak when Wilkinson played, and of course, he went on to win the 31 and then 47 in a row with Oklahoma. You hype up the streak angle. People will love it, and they'll give you a ratings share you'd think was only available to the BCS Championship game, I assure you.
You know, I think you might be on to something there. You know, I'll make a call, and we'll put this game on at 3:30. I can't promise you if it'll be ABC, ESPN or the Deuce, but you're right, this game is too damn big to put on the U... sorry.. ESPNU... I sure am glad we had this talk, I see now putting this game on a non-national channel would be suicide. Hey, you want to come to work for me? I'll move you out to Bristol, company car, TVs... I'll even have Stu read you the paper on Sunday mornings. Or.. if you prefer, I can have Steven A. Smith yell the news at you for a few hours.
No thanks George. No way I'm moving to Connecticut.
Gopher Traditions
Minnosota fans are hiding in their Gopher holes, and rightfully so. Their season has, sadly, not lived up to fan expectations. One fan agonized, "we have a tradition of always thinking IT COULD BE WORSE." And their fans expect a lot, like most Big Ten fans, since their school is so rich with history and tradition ? including a tradition of winning. After all, the Golden Gopher football team has been crowned national champions six times, ranking them seventh all-time in recognized football national championships. Also, to date, the Minnesota Gophers are the only football team to win three consecutive national championships (1934, 1935, and 1936). Although the past few years have been rough on Gopher fans, Buckeye fans feel a natural connection with the U of M team. After all, 15 Gophers on the current roster hail from the Buckeye State. (And of course, their head coach is also a Buckeye.)
(1857) [FONT="]
- Why Maroon and Gold? In 1880, the University of Minnesota was preparing for spring graduation, and for the previous 29 years, different graduation colors were used every ceremony. In the spring of 1880, President Folwell began a tradition of common school colors at the University. He asked an English instructor, Mrs. Augusta Smith, to select proper colors to use for graduation ribbons and other occasions. She chose maroon and gold, which made a favorable impression on the students and faculty in 1880. As the years passed and without any kind of formal action, maroon and gold became the official school colors.
- Ski-U-Mah! This famous Minnesota phrase, pronounced SKY-YOU-MAH, is more than 115 years old. In 1884, two Minnesota rugby players tried to think of a fitting team yell. They used the word "Ski", a Sioux battle cry meaning "victory," and combined it with "U-Mah" (representing the University of Minnesota and rhyming with "rah-rah-rah") to create a team cheer. The phrase stuck and was incorporated into both official school songs, "Hail Minnesota" and more commonly in the "Minnesota Rouser."
- The "Minnesota Rouser" is one of two official school songs at the University of Minnesota. It was written in 1909 by Floyd M. Hutsell in response to a contest sponsored by the Minneapolis Tribune. The contest was judged by University President and Governor of Minnesota, with the winner receiving $100. (One fan noted that one of the losing songs was later rewritten and became "On Wisconsin." We have not verified this, but that's hilarious if true!) The rouser is sung at Gopher sporting events, along with the other official University song, "Hail Minnesota."
Minnesota, Hats off to thee!
To thy colors, true we shall ever be,
Firm and strong, united are we.
Rah! Rah! Rah! for Ski-U-Mah,
Rah! Rah! Rah! Rah! Rah for the U of M.
[Repeat]
M - I - N - N - E - S - O - T - A!
Minnesota!
Minnesota!
Yeaaaaaaah Gophers!
To thy colors, true we shall ever be,
Firm and strong, united are we.
Rah! Rah! Rah! for Ski-U-Mah,
Rah! Rah! Rah! Rah! Rah for the U of M.
[Repeat]
M - I - N - N - E - S - O - T - A!
Minnesota!
Minnesota!
Yeaaaaaaah Gophers!
- The Gopher mascot is a tradition as old as the state. Minnesota was tabbed the "Gopher State" in 1857 after a satirizing cartoon, depicting nine Gophers with the heads of local politicians pulling a locomotive, was published. The story was over legislative action for a $5 million railroad proposal in western Minnesota. Later, the University picked up the nickname. The "Golden" adjective has not always been a part of the Gopher nickname. During the 1930s, the Gophers wore gold jerseys and pants. Legendary KSTP-AM radio announcer Halsey Hall coined the term "Golden Gophers" in reference to the team's all-gold attire on the field. From 1932 through 1941, Minnesota compiled an impressive record, losing only 12 games and winning seven Big Ten titles and five national championships?a true Goldy began his illustrious career as U of M mascot in the 1940s, but the story of the famed gopher begins almost a century earlier.
- Chosen to be Minnesota's official animal in 1857, Goldy's ancestors were the first of their kind to receive such an honor. That same year, Minnesota was declared the Gopher State. Taking advantage of the natural connection, Clarence Spears, U of M football coach, named his team the Gophers in 1926. Several years later, Bernie Bierman's champion football team was coined the "golden swarm," a reference to their gold-colored jerseys, and the team soon became the "Golden Gophers."
(1940s)
(1970s)
(1986)
- U of M's trophy games are:
- The Little Brown Jug - Oldest of college football's 57 trophy-game traditions, Michigan and Minnesota play for it each year. The tradition started in 1903 when Michigan coach, Fielding Yost left his jug in Minneapolis following a tie in which the fans rushed the field, and Minnesota made him win it back. The five-gallon jug is painted with the victories of the two teams.
- Floyd of Rosedale - Since 1935 the Gophers and the Iowa Hawkeyes have fought to win this bronze pig.
- Paul Bunyan's Axe - Minnesota and the Wisconsin Badgers have passed this trophy back and forth since 1948, although it records the two teams' encounters since 1890. The first game in the series, a 63-0 Gopher victory in 1890, is printed on the handle near the axe's head. The results of every successive game line the handle in red ink.
- Governor's Victory Bell - The newest of the four trophies, the bell was created to commemorate the 1993 entrance of Penn State's Nittany Lions into the Big Ten.
- A tradition at the University of Minnesota since 1914, Homecoming features annual events, such as student sports and philanthropy competitions, lip sync performances, a bonfire, pep fest and parade, the traditional Gopher homecoming football game, and more.
- The University of Minnesota Marching Band was founded in 1892 as the University Cadet Band, with 29 members. In 1910, the first formations and halftime show were presented during the Gopher football season. Included in the formations was the first "Block M". The current Block M is now a symbol of the University. With more than 300 members, the "Pride of Minnesota" performs at all home football games and at an annual indoor concert at Northrop Auditorium.
- Jim Mitchell, a former drum major, was the first black drum major in the history of the Big Ten.
- Another band tradition: the Swinging Gates, a staple of the pregame show. The colors are marched down the field as the band "swings" around.
- According to Gopher fans, playing in the Metrodome has taken away much of the atmosphere/traditions. The band used to march down University Avenue past the frat houses to Memorial Stadium, and that tradition might be picked up again when the new stadium opens on campus in 2009. As of now, they march a couple of blocks from Washington Avenue to the Dome and perform on the plaza outside the stadium before games. Postgame is on the field now, and is very likely to stay there in the new stadium too.
- One fan noted that "nobody can match what Minnesota has going on on the sidelines during football games." Their dance team has won four straight national championships, and Goldy annually finishes in the top 5 among college mascots.
- When the Gophers get a first down, the PA announcer will say "And that's another Golden Gopher..." with the fans finishing it off by yelling "first down!" and doing the arm motion. One fan groaned, "of course, you might not see Gopher fans do it more than a couple of times against the tOSU defense on Saturday."
- They also have a mini-cannon that is set off after touchdowns.
- After every score, the band plays a Superman-type song and Goldy wearing a U of M flag cape gets lifted on a large platform above the male cheerleaders. He then leads everyone in clap where he does a pushup for every point they have scored.
- The student section will often chant "Spin Your Head" to Goldy at random points in the game and Goldy then "loosens" his head and spins it in a complete 360. According to one Gopher fan, "It sounds kind of lame on paper, but the students go crazy for it."
- The fans hold up their shoes in the air before the team kicks any extra points or field goals.
- Cheerleading is a Gopher tradition, especially because they invented it in 1898.
- One fan noted that "overall, if you want traditions, hockey rules all here, as you might have seen in the 2 losses your Buckeyes got handed this weekend." Ouch.
Historical Data
University of Minnesota: Twin Cities (Minneapolis, MN) Founded 1851
Football 1st Season: 1882
Stadium: Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome (Minneapolis, MN). Minnesota is early in the process of building a stadium on the campus. Groundbreaking was September 30, 2006 and estimates for completion are for fall of 2009.
Constructed: 1982
Seating Capacity: 63,669
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Conference: Independent from 1882-1895, Big Ten Conference since 1896
Colors: Maroon and Gold
Mascot: Gopher (Goldy)
College Classification: D-IA (or equivalent) since 1937 (first year of NCAA classification)
Conference Championships: 16 Big Ten Titles: 1900*, 1903*, 1904*, 1906*, 1909, 1910*, 1911, 1915*, 1934, 1935*, 1937, 1938, 1940, 1941, 1960*, 1967* (*=Co-Champions)
Consensus All-Americans: 32 (27 different players as of 2004)
College Hall-of-Famers: 20
Pro Hall-of-Famers: 5 (Bobby Bell, Carl Eller, Bud Grant, Bronko Nagurski, Leo Nomellini)
Award Winners: 1 AFCA COY, 1 Eddie Robinson COY, 1 Bear Bryant COY, 1 Heisman, 3 Outlands, 1 Rimington, and 1 Thorpe Award
National Championships: 6 Recognized National Titles
Number of AP/Coaches final rankings: AP-14 years, Coaches-9 years
Stadium: Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome (Minneapolis, MN). Minnesota is early in the process of building a stadium on the campus. Groundbreaking was September 30, 2006 and estimates for completion are for fall of 2009.
Constructed: 1982
Seating Capacity: 63,669
Playing Surface: FieldTurf
Conference: Independent from 1882-1895, Big Ten Conference since 1896
Colors: Maroon and Gold
Mascot: Gopher (Goldy)
College Classification: D-IA (or equivalent) since 1937 (first year of NCAA classification)
Conference Championships: 16 Big Ten Titles: 1900*, 1903*, 1904*, 1906*, 1909, 1910*, 1911, 1915*, 1934, 1935*, 1937, 1938, 1940, 1941, 1960*, 1967* (*=Co-Champions)
Consensus All-Americans: 32 (27 different players as of 2004)
College Hall-of-Famers: 20
Pro Hall-of-Famers: 5 (Bobby Bell, Carl Eller, Bud Grant, Bronko Nagurski, Leo Nomellini)
Award Winners: 1 AFCA COY, 1 Eddie Robinson COY, 1 Bear Bryant COY, 1 Heisman, 3 Outlands, 1 Rimington, and 1 Thorpe Award
National Championships: 6 Recognized National Titles
Number of AP/Coaches final rankings: AP-14 years, Coaches-9 years
Records
All Time: 620-432-44 (.586)
Bowl Games: 5-6-0 (.455) Most recently a 31 to 34 loss to Virginia in the 2005 Music City Bowl
All Time vs the BigTen: 313-328-28 (.489) versus teams with conference membership at time of game.
All Time vs the Ohio State Buckeyes: 7-38-0 (.156) Most recently a 31 to 45 loss in Minneapolis (2005). Minnesota only has 2 wins in their last 33 meetings versus the Buckeyes.
Coach's Reord: Glenn Mason, 1997-2005, 58-50-0 (.537), 20 year career mark of 117-114-1 (.506)
Last Season: 7-5-0 (.583)
W - Tulsa (41-10)
W - Colorado St. (56-24)
W - Florida Atlantic (46-7)
W - Purdue (42-35)
L - Penn St. (14-44)
W - Michigan (23-20)
L - Wisconsin (34-38)
L - Ohio St. (31-45)
W - Indiana (42-21)
W - Michigan St. (41-18)
L - Iowa (28-52)
L - Virginia (31-34) Music City Bowl
Last 5 Years: 36-25-0 (.590)
Last 10 Years: 62-57-0 (.521)
Bowl Games: 5-6-0 (.455) Most recently a 31 to 34 loss to Virginia in the 2005 Music City Bowl
All Time vs the BigTen: 313-328-28 (.489) versus teams with conference membership at time of game.
All Time vs the Ohio State Buckeyes: 7-38-0 (.156) Most recently a 31 to 45 loss in Minneapolis (2005). Minnesota only has 2 wins in their last 33 meetings versus the Buckeyes.
Coach's Reord: Glenn Mason, 1997-2005, 58-50-0 (.537), 20 year career mark of 117-114-1 (.506)
Last Season: 7-5-0 (.583)
W - Tulsa (41-10)
W - Colorado St. (56-24)
W - Florida Atlantic (46-7)
W - Purdue (42-35)
L - Penn St. (14-44)
W - Michigan (23-20)
L - Wisconsin (34-38)
L - Ohio St. (31-45)
W - Indiana (42-21)
W - Michigan St. (41-18)
L - Iowa (28-52)
L - Virginia (31-34) Music City Bowl
Last 5 Years: 36-25-0 (.590)
Last 10 Years: 62-57-0 (.521)
Links
Official Sites:
Official School Site - University of Minnesota
Student Newspaper - The Minnesota Daily
Official Athletic Site - Gopher Sports
Official Conference Site - Big Ten Conference
Message Boards & Team Pages:
Message Boards - Gopher Sports (Scout)
Message Boards - Gopher Illustrated (Rivals)
Message Boards - Gopher Hole (Independent)
Team Page - ESPN
Team Page - USA Today
Team Page - Fox Sports
Team Page - CNN/SI
Team Page - CFN
Team Page - CBS Sportsline
Team Page - Yahoo Sports
Local News Sources:
Minneapolis Star Tribune - Local News
Twin Cities (Pioneer Press) - Local News
Team Previews and Breakdowns:
MINNESOTA Team Report (01/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (02/03/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (03/24/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (04/11/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (04/25/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (05/02/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (05/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (05/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (05/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (06/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (06/27/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (06/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (07/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (07/25/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (08/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (08/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (08/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (08/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/04/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/06/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/11/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/14/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/19/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/26/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/01/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/04/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/15/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/19/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
Prospectus, Rosters & Other Info.:
2006 Roster - Gopher Sports
2006 News Releases - Gopher Sports
2006 Big Ten Spring Looks - CFN
2006 Big Ten Spring Storylines - CFN
2006 Preview - CFN
2006 Preview - Offense - CFN
2006 Preview - Defense - CFN
2006 Preview - Further Analysis - CFN
2006 Preview - Depth Chart - CFN
2006 Preview - Athlon
2006 Preview - Football.com
2006 Preview - CNN/SI
2006 Preview - The Ozone
Travel: Home Game
2006 OSU Visiting Team Guide - Ohio State Buckeyes
2006 OSU Visitor's Travel Guide - Ohio State Buckeyes
2006 OSU Visitor's Weather Guide - Ohio State Buckeyes
Big Ten:
2006 Big Ten Spring Prospectus (PDF) - Big Ten
2006 Big Ten Composite Schedule (PDF) - Big Ten
Big Ten Preview - Yahoo / Rivals
Big Ten Preview - Yahoo / Terry Bowden
Big Ten Preview - CFN
Big Ten Preview - CFN All-Big Ten Team
Big Ten Preview - CFN Big Ten Unit Rankings
Big Ten Preview - CFN Big Ten Five Best
Big Ten Preview - CSTV
Big Ten Preview - College Football Poll
Big Ten Preview - Football.com
Big Ten Preview - The Sports Network
Big Ten Preview - Just College Football
Big Ten Preview - The Sporting News
Big Ten Preview - The Ozone
Official School Site - University of Minnesota
Student Newspaper - The Minnesota Daily
Official Athletic Site - Gopher Sports
Official Conference Site - Big Ten Conference
Message Boards & Team Pages:
Message Boards - Gopher Sports (Scout)
Message Boards - Gopher Illustrated (Rivals)
Message Boards - Gopher Hole (Independent)
Team Page - ESPN
Team Page - USA Today
Team Page - Fox Sports
Team Page - CNN/SI
Team Page - CFN
Team Page - CBS Sportsline
Team Page - Yahoo Sports
Local News Sources:
Minneapolis Star Tribune - Local News
Twin Cities (Pioneer Press) - Local News
Team Previews and Breakdowns:
MINNESOTA Team Report (01/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (02/03/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (03/24/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (04/11/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (04/25/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (05/02/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (05/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (05/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (05/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (06/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (06/27/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (06/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (07/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (07/25/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (08/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (08/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (08/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (08/30/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/04/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/06/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/11/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/13/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/14/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/19/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (09/26/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/01/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/04/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/05/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/08/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/10/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/15/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/17/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/19/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
MINNESOTA Team Report (10/22/06) - CSTV (The Sports Xchange)
Prospectus, Rosters & Other Info.:
2006 Roster - Gopher Sports
2006 News Releases - Gopher Sports
2006 Big Ten Spring Looks - CFN
2006 Big Ten Spring Storylines - CFN
2006 Preview - CFN
2006 Preview - Offense - CFN
2006 Preview - Defense - CFN
2006 Preview - Further Analysis - CFN
2006 Preview - Depth Chart - CFN
2006 Preview - Athlon
2006 Preview - Football.com
2006 Preview - CNN/SI
2006 Preview - The Ozone
Travel: Home Game
2006 OSU Visiting Team Guide - Ohio State Buckeyes
2006 OSU Visitor's Travel Guide - Ohio State Buckeyes
2006 OSU Visitor's Weather Guide - Ohio State Buckeyes
Big Ten:
2006 Big Ten Spring Prospectus (PDF) - Big Ten
2006 Big Ten Composite Schedule (PDF) - Big Ten
Big Ten Preview - Yahoo / Rivals
Big Ten Preview - Yahoo / Terry Bowden
Big Ten Preview - CFN
Big Ten Preview - CFN All-Big Ten Team
Big Ten Preview - CFN Big Ten Unit Rankings
Big Ten Preview - CFN Big Ten Five Best
Big Ten Preview - CSTV
Big Ten Preview - College Football Poll
Big Ten Preview - Football.com
Big Ten Preview - The Sports Network
Big Ten Preview - Just College Football
Big Ten Preview - The Sporting News
Big Ten Preview - The Ozone
Preseason Rankings
None
Preseason Watch Lists
200 Lombardi Award - Watch List (The Rotary Club of Houston)
Matt Spaeth, TE, Minnesota
2006 Butkus Award - Watch List (Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando)
John Shelvin Minnesota
Matt Spaeth, TE, Minnesota
2006 Butkus Award - Watch List (Downtown Athletic Club of Orlando)
John Shelvin Minnesota
Preseason Conference Accolades
2006 BigTen Football Media Day
2006 BigTen Preseason Media Poll - only the top 3 were listed
1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. Iowa
2006 BigTen Preseason Offensive Player of the Year
Troy Smith - Ohio State
2006 BigTen Preseason Defensive Player of the Year
Paul Posluszny - Penn State
2006 BigTen Preseason Media Poll - only the top 3 were listed
1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. Iowa
2006 BigTen Preseason Offensive Player of the Year
Troy Smith - Ohio State
2006 BigTen Preseason Defensive Player of the Year
Paul Posluszny - Penn State
Preseason Conference Accolades
2006 BigTen Football Media Day
2006 BigTen Preseason Media Poll - only the top 3 were listed
1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. Iowa
2006 BigTen Preseason Offensive Player of the Year
Troy Smith - Ohio State
2006 BigTen Preseason Defensive Player of the Year
Paul Posluszny - Penn State
2006 BigTen Preseason Media Poll - only the top 3 were listed
1. Ohio State
2. Michigan
3. Iowa
2006 BigTen Preseason Offensive Player of the Year
Troy Smith - Ohio State
2006 BigTen Preseason Defensive Player of the Year
Paul Posluszny - Penn State
Big Ten Conference Players of the Week
Sept. 2, 2006 (Week 1)
CO-OFFENSE: RB - Alex Daniels, Minnesota, and QB Troy Smith, Ohio State
DEFENSE: LB - Dan Connor, Penn State
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: TE/FB - Erryn Cobb, Northwestern, and LB - Jonathan Casillas, Wisconsin
Sept. 9, 2006 (Week 2)
OFFENSE: WR - Matt Trannon, Michigan State
DEFENSE: LB - James Laurinaitis, Ohio State
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - A.J. Trapasso, Ohio State
Sept. 16, 2006 (Week 3)
OFFENSE: WR - Mario Manningham, Michigan
DEFENSE: LB - Prescott Burgess, Michigan
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Aaron Pettrey, Ohio State
Sept. 23, 2006 (Week 4)
OFFENSE: WR - Mario Manningham, Michigan
DEFENSE: DE - Anthony Spencer, Purdue
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Jeremy Kapinos, Penn State & P - Ken DeBauche, Wisconsin
Sept. 30, 2006 (Week 5)
OFFENSE: QB - John Stocco, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: DE - Anthony Spencer, Purdue
SPECIAL TEAMS: PK - Jason Reda, Illinois
Oct. 7, 2006 (Week 6)
OFFENSE: QB - Troy Smith, Ohio State and RB - P.J. Hill, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: LB - Mike Sherels, Minnesota
SPECIAL TEAMS: RB - Marcus Thigpen, Indiana
Oct. 14, 2006 (Week 7)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Kellen Lewis, Indiana & QB - Curtis Painter, Purdue
DEFENSE: DE - LaMarr Woodley, Michigan
SPECIAL TEAMS: PR - Ted Ginn Jr., Ohio State
Oct. 21, 2006 (Week 8)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Drew Stanton, Michigan State & QB - Troy Smith, Ohio State
CO-DEFENSE: CB - Antonio Smith, Ohio State & LB - Paul Posluszny, Penn State
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Jeremy Kapinos, Penn State
Oct. 28, 2006 (Week 9)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 4, 2006 (Week 10)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 11, 2006 (Week 11)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 18, 2006 (Week 12)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 25, 2006 (Week 13)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
CO-OFFENSE: RB - Alex Daniels, Minnesota, and QB Troy Smith, Ohio State
DEFENSE: LB - Dan Connor, Penn State
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: TE/FB - Erryn Cobb, Northwestern, and LB - Jonathan Casillas, Wisconsin
Sept. 9, 2006 (Week 2)
OFFENSE: WR - Matt Trannon, Michigan State
DEFENSE: LB - James Laurinaitis, Ohio State
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - A.J. Trapasso, Ohio State
Sept. 16, 2006 (Week 3)
OFFENSE: WR - Mario Manningham, Michigan
DEFENSE: LB - Prescott Burgess, Michigan
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: K - Aaron Pettrey, Ohio State
Sept. 23, 2006 (Week 4)
OFFENSE: WR - Mario Manningham, Michigan
DEFENSE: DE - Anthony Spencer, Purdue
CO-SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Jeremy Kapinos, Penn State & P - Ken DeBauche, Wisconsin
Sept. 30, 2006 (Week 5)
OFFENSE: QB - John Stocco, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: DE - Anthony Spencer, Purdue
SPECIAL TEAMS: PK - Jason Reda, Illinois
Oct. 7, 2006 (Week 6)
OFFENSE: QB - Troy Smith, Ohio State and RB - P.J. Hill, Wisconsin
DEFENSE: LB - Mike Sherels, Minnesota
SPECIAL TEAMS: RB - Marcus Thigpen, Indiana
Oct. 14, 2006 (Week 7)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Kellen Lewis, Indiana & QB - Curtis Painter, Purdue
DEFENSE: DE - LaMarr Woodley, Michigan
SPECIAL TEAMS: PR - Ted Ginn Jr., Ohio State
Oct. 21, 2006 (Week 8)
CO-OFFENSE: QB - Drew Stanton, Michigan State & QB - Troy Smith, Ohio State
CO-DEFENSE: CB - Antonio Smith, Ohio State & LB - Paul Posluszny, Penn State
SPECIAL TEAMS: P - Jeremy Kapinos, Penn State
Oct. 28, 2006 (Week 9)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 4, 2006 (Week 10)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 11, 2006 (Week 11)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 18, 2006 (Week 12)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Nov. 25, 2006 (Week 13)
OFFENSE:
DEFENSE:
SPECIAL TEAMS:
Note: Statistical data was complied using a variety of sources, including:
Stassen (Chris Stassen) - Data
College Football Data Warehouse - Data
Two Cousins College Football Emporium - Data
American College Football-RSFC (Dave Wilson) - Data
D1A Football (Formerly WALJ 10 College Football) - Data
National Champs.net - Data
Hickok Sports - Data
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