ILLINOIS 44, GOPHERS 17
Recap: The Gophers had their worst defensive performance of the season and never had a chance in suffering their eighth consecutive loss. Illinois rolled up 655 total yards, including 448 rushing. The Illini had 429 total yards in the first half alone and led 34-10 at halftime. Rashard Mendenhall rushed for 201 yards and two touchdowns on only 17 carries. Illini quarterback Juice Williams passed for 207 yards and two touchdowns and also rushed for 133 yards and one touchdown. Minnesota senior Ernie Wheelwright posted careers highs in catches (nine) and receiving yards (123) with one touchdown.
UP NEXT: AT IOWA
When, where: 11 a.m. Saturday, Kinnick Stadium
TV, radio: Big Ten Network, 830-AM
Records: Gophers 1-9, 0-6 Big Ten; Iowa 5-5, 3-4
The skinny: The Hawkeyes have rebounded from an awful start to the season and now have some momentum. Iowa has won three of its past four games, including Saturday's come-from-behind 28-17 victory at Northwestern. The Hawkeyes offense has struggled this season because of injuries and off-the-field issues, but that shouldn't matter against the Gophers defense. Minnesota has lost three consecutive games at Iowa.
BIG TEN SNEAK PREVIEW
NO. 13 MICHIGAN AT WISCONSIN
When: 11 a.m. Saturday
Records: Michigan 8-2, 6-0 Big Ten; Wisconsin 7-3, 3-3
The skinny: Michigan kept its Big Ten title hopes alive with a spirited comeback at Michigan State. Wisconsin is licking its wounds after losing at Ohio State. This is a critical game for Michigan, which plays host to top-ranked Ohio State next week. That's obviously a huge game, but the Wolverines can't afford to look ahead because the Badgers will be tough at home.
GAINING CONFIDENCE
Ohio State's defense has been very good in all phases this season, particularly in stopping the run. But Illinois will be a good test for the Buckeyes. The Illini have one of the nation's top rushing attacks. Tailback Rashard Mendenhall and quarterback Juice Williams combined for 334 rushing yards and three touchdowns on only 35 carries against the Gophers.
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