Gophers break out white helmets

The Gophers have broken out their formal wear for the Battle of the Axe, going with an all-white look -- including the helmets. I know players like wearing something unusual, so you can't blame the coaching staff for trying a new look.
Forgive my Mountain West past, but I look out and see Wyoming Cowboys and, in their usual red, white and black, New Mexico Lobos. Here's hoping the Gophers and Badgers play a little better than that.
It's reminiscent of Albuquerque in another way, too -- the empty stands. Temperatures are close to 80 degrees here, and the tailgate parties were in full swing outside Camp Randall Stadium awhile ago. I imagine the crowd will be straggling in for much of the first half, especially with the Badgers favored to win a blowout.
Speaking of which, I didn't sense a lot of respect for the Gophers as I headed into the stadium. The taped greeting that runs in a loop outside kept saying, "Welcome to Camp Randall Stadium for today's game between your Wisconsin Badgers and ... " Guess they couldn't remember.Some people are aware, though. A cable company is handing out red-foam Axes outside the stadium, so watch for some tomahawk-chop action.
Cornerback Michael Carter is not here, having stayed behind with an injured toe. That thins an already depleted Minnesota secondary; perhaps we'll see Troy Stoudermire make his defensive debut.