GOPHERS OFFENSE VS.

HUSKERS DEFENSE

Nebraska has held opposing quarterbacks to a 47.4 completion percentage, second-best in the Big Ten. Mitch Leidner could have a tough time, but David Cobb must be salivating. The Cornhuskers stacked the box to stop the run against Wisconsin and still gave up 581 rushing yards. Advantage: Even

SPECIAL TEAMS

Nebraska freshman De'Mornay Pierson-El has two punt return touchdowns, so the Gophers will need good coverage for Peter Mortell, the Big Ten leader in punting. Advantage: Even

º player to watch

Nebraska defensive end Randy Gregory is a 6-6, 245-pound QB-eating machine. SI.com ranked him second, behind Oregon's Marcus Mariota, on its 2015 NFL draft board this week. Gregory twisted an ankle at Wisconsin, but coach Bo Pelini said it was nothing major.

THE OPPONENT

Nebraska looked impressive at home when it beat Miami. But the Cornhuskers fell behind 27-3 at Michigan State before rallying to make that just a five-point loss. Nebraska led Wisconsin 17-3 last week before falling apart in that 35-point loss.

GOPHERS DEFENSE VS.

HUSKERS OFFENSE

The Gophers will look to take away Nebraska's running game, with Ameer Abdullah playing with a sprained MCL in his left knee. If that works, the Cornhuskers could be in trouble, as sophomore quarterback Tommy Armstrong Jr. has completed just 49.7 percent of his passes in Big Ten play. Advantage: Gophers

INTANGIBLES

It's Senior Day for Nebraska, and the last chance this season for one of college football's best fan bases to salute its team. Advantage: Cornhuskers

JOE'S PREDICTION

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MINNNEB

Nebraska has a big home-field edge, but Minnesota is plus-nine in turnovers this year (25 gained, 16 lost), and the Huskers are minus-two.