Greetings.

I thought there were several encouraging things to come out out today's victory. To wit:

1. I think Kevin Whaley changes the running game. I know the coaches like him as a change-of-pace back and don't want to run him too often, but I'd still like to see him carry the ball 15 or more times per game. He's the best cut-back runner the team currently has and he runs the stretch play very well. Plus he has the speed to get around the corner, as we saw on that 28-yard run today.

2. This was a strong game by the offensive line, which clearly benefited from a commitment to the run today.

3. I loved the fact that, just about every time they were inside the five today they ran the ball. Unlike calling pass plays like were called last week. I thought Matt Carufel did a nice job blocking on the goal line today.

4. The Gophers defense gave up a bunch of passing yards today, but continue the recent trend of causing turnovers. One changed the game's momentum for good, the other one sealed the victory. The Gophers also played the run much better than a week ago, though that is an easier job when John Clay isn't the man you're trying to tackle. Better, crisper tackling today. And good pressure on the passer in the second half.

5. Special teams -- all facets -- continue to shine. I thought, given the wind, punter Blake Haudan did a nice job. But the coverage and kick return teams continue to shine, and Saturday they added a blocked field goal.

Now, some things to worry about:

1. When is Adam Weber going to find his rhythm? His first two passes, even considering the wind, were way off the mark. He does not seem to be playing with confidence, and the Gophers will need that confidence in the upcoming two games on the road at Penn State and Ohio State.

2. The Gophers defense, again, started a game with passive zone coverage and a lack of blitzing. It wasn't until the Boilermakers jumped out to a lead that there was some creative blitzing done. I'd like to see a more aggressive game plan from the start.

3. Tray Davis hurt his ankle Saturday. He was able to leave the field after the game under his own power, but seemed in pain. Whether or not he's 100 percent this week the Gophers will have to get D.J. Burris ready to start there. Did you notice that the Gophers didn't go to the shotgun with Burris in the game? That's because long-snapping is not one of his strengths. You can be they'll be working hard on that this week.

That's about it. Have a good weekend.