#11-MINNESOTA GOLDEN GOPHERS

Minnesota hasn’t won a conference title since 1967 and it does not appear that Jerry Kill will be the man to break the trend. Entering year three, Kill is just 9-16 at Minnesota and has to replace QB MarQuies Gray this fall. On the bright side, 18 starters return for Minnesota including the man who will take over for Gray.

Phillip Nelson will be the man behind center in 2013. Nelson didn’t figure to see the field last year until injuries hit and he actually ended up battling for the starting job. The strength of the offensive unit appears to be the offensive line which is chalked with plenty of starting experience. Overall the Gophers return 10 of 11 offensive starters however the issue is, these starters were not overly productive last season.

On the defensive side of the ball, Minnesota is also undersized but did finish last season 33rd in the country in total defense. Defensive Coordinator Tracy Claeys also has plenty of experience to work with including leading tackler Aaron Hill.

On paper, this appears to be one of the more talented Gophers squads in recent history. However we question both the history of this program and the coaching ability of Jerry Kill. The September schedule is weak as usual with UNLV, New Mexico State, San Jose State and Western Illinois lining up the cupcakes. The conference slate will open vs Iowa. Minnesota avoids Ohio State, Purdue and Illinois in 2013.

PREDICTION: 4-0 non-conference, 1-7 conference, 5-7 overall.