One of the Gophers' worst losses last season was at Nebraska, when the 0-6 team stormed to a 53-28 victory. The Gophers have already remedied a bad showing at Illinois last year with a dominant victory last Saturday. Repaying the favor to the Cornhuskers is next on the slate.
Prediction: Gophers 40, Nebraska 28
THREE BIG STORY LINES
Nebraska injuries
The Cornhuskers lost their two best players last week. Coach Scott Frost has been elusive about QB Adrian Martinez and receiver JD Spielman's returns from leg injuries. Without them, their offense takes a huge hit and the Gophers' defensive game plan changes.
Up and running
The Gophers' run game averaged just 2.6 yards per carry during the first four games, among the lowest in the FBS. Last week was a breakout with Shannon Brooks and Rodney Smith each eclipsing 100 yards. The Gophers hope injured Mohamed Ibrahim returns and those two continue their momentum.
Weather woes
With a temperature in the upper 30s and snow forecast for the night game at TCF Bank Stadium, both teams might have to deal with cold, wet conditions. The Gophers passing game struggled in misty weather a week ago, but they have practiced with wet and frozen footballs since then.
