GAME BREAKDOWN
KEY MATCHUP: Purdue’s passing game has been on a roll in recent weeks, but it’s flying blind against Minnesota. The Golden Gophers fired defensive coordinator Robb Smith after allowing 55 points in last week’s loss to Illinois. The Golden Gophers have given up 43 points per game in Big Ten play but could show some different wrinkles in the secondary this week. David Blough will have to be prepared for anything.
DRAFT SLANT
–WR Isaac Zico had another strong game with five catches for 74 yards and a touchdown. The receiving corps is getting a lot of opportunities for highlight-reel plays, and Zico is among those taking advantage of these opportunities.
ROSTER REPORT:
–LT Grant Hermanns had to undergo surgery on his left knee. He is likely out for the season.
–RB D.J. Knox missed time against Iowa with a hand injury but returned in the second half. He underwent an MRI and had X-Rays after the game and should play against Minnesota unless anything emerges from those tests.
–DE Giovanni Reviere had to be helped off the field against Iowa with a lower-body injury. He came back in the second half, but his status for Minnesota will be determined later in the week.
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