PLAYERS TO WATCH
–RB Bryce Williams is one of the few healthy running backs left on the roster. He has become a key player since injuries to the running backs depleted the depth. His play against Iowa is a key factor, especially with the Hawkeyes probably stacking the box to put additional pressure on Zach Annexstad. Williams has rushed for 283 yards and one touchdown.
–QB Zack Annexstad is closer to 100 percent with an ankle injury suffered against Miami-Ohio. The true freshman benefitted from the bye week, and his play in the first month of the season was an encouraging long-term sign for the program. He has passed for 706 yards and five touchdowns in leading Minnesota to a 3-1 start.
–WR Tyler Johnson should get plenty of attention by Iowa’s secondary. Johnson is Minnesota’s only sure offensive weapon after injuries have hurt the offense and special teams. Johnson has caught 22 passes for 295 yards and five touchdowns this season.
–K Emmit Carpenter has plenty of experience and he might be the X-factor if the game is close in the fourth quarter. With 43 career field goals, Carpenter is a reliable kicker. This season he has made 7-of-8 field-goal attempts and all 13 PATs.
SERIES HISTORY: Minnesota leads 62-47-2. Iowa defeated Minnesota, 17-10, last season in Kinnick Stadium.
QUOTE TO NOTE: “You don’t replace him. You don’t replace him. He’s one of the best players in the country.” — Minnesota coach P.J. Fleck on losing safety Antoine Winfield Jr. to a season-ending foot injury.