Big game
The records: Gophers (8-2, 4-2 Big Ten) vs. Badgers (8-2, 5-1)
The rivalry: Wisconsin has won Paul Bunyan's Axe nine years in a row and 18 of the past 22 years.
The stakes: The Gophers are still alive in the Legends Division race. Michigan State can seal it with a win over Northwestern, but if the Spartans lose, the Gophers would control their own destiny.
The stat: Wisconsin ranks sixth in the nation in rushing, at 307.9 yards per game.
The key: Minnesota has averaged 15.2 points during its nine-game losing streak against Wisconsin. The U might need to double that to win.
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More from Star Tribune
More From Star Tribune
More From Sports
Twins
Twins manager Baldelli gives Buxton, Jeffers top spots in order to start season
Jeffers was delighted in the confidence shown by his manager before an Opening Day victory.
Wild
Wild get healthy and get a win, but playoff chances are still day-to-day
Joel Eriksson Ek and Jonas Brodin returned from injury on Thursday, giving the Wild back their best center and top defenseman — but eight points still stand between the Wild and the playoffs.
Sports
Hijab wearing players in women's NCAA Tournament hope to inspire others
N.C. State's Jannah Eissa and UC Irvine's Diaba Konate are leaving a big impact off the court, bringing visibility and inspiration to Muslim women by wearing hjiabs while they play.
Sports
French soccer federation limits support for players' Ramadan observance. Critics see discrimination
For Muslim soccer players in deeply secular France, observing Ramadan is a tall order, and this is not about to change.
Sports
Golden Knights visit the Wild after Barbashev's 2-goal game
Vegas Golden Knights (40-25-8, third in the Pacific Division) vs. Minnesota Wild (35-28-9, sixth in the Central Division)