Gameday: Gophers vs. Iowa

Iowa struggled early, falling to 3-3 after two Big Ten games. But with Shonn Greene running the ball, the Hawkeyes have won four of their past five.

By KENT YOUNGBLOOD, Star Tribune

Last update: November 22, 2008 - 12:54 AM

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GOPHERS VS. IOWA

6 p.m., Metrodome • TV: Big Ten Net. • Radio: 830-AM

Line: Iowa by 6 • Series: UM 59-40-2 • Last: Iowa 21-16 (11/10/2007)

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Gophers offense vs. Iowa defense Wide receiver Eric Decker returns, and he is said to be near full strength, after missing most of the past two games because of a sprained ankle. That should help quarterback Adam Weber. Iowa has a strong front seven and is particularly strong at defensive tackle. The Gophers need some level of success running the ball to give Weber time to pass. Advantage: Iowa

Iowa offense vs. Gophers defense The Gophers proved they could play well against a physical running game last week at Wisconsin. But linebacker Lee Campbell and safety Kyle Theret left the game because of sprained ankles. Iowa is third in the conference in scoring and fourth in rushing and overall yards gained. Shonn Greene has rushed for more than 100 yards in every game while quarterback Ricky Stanzi has cut down on his mistakes. Advantage: Iowa

Special teams The Gophers' special teams have been solid much of the season, but Troy Stoudermire's fumble on a kickoff return at Wisconsin was a game-turning mistake. He will need to come back strong. The Gophers rank third in the Big Ten in punt returns. Iowa freshman Trent Mossbrucker is 13-for-15 on field goals. Advantage: Even

Intangibles Iowa assured itself of a bowl game with last week's victory over Purdue. Will there be a letdown? The Gophers finish their tenure in the Metrodome on Senior Day trying to break a three-game losing streak. Advantage: Gophers

Prediction Greene will help the Hawkeyes control field position and the clock in a hard-hitting, physical game that will go down to the wire. Iowa 21, Gophers 17

Numbers to know

6-0 The Gophers’ record when scoring first this season.

26 Sacks allowed by the Gophers, double their total of 2007.

Don’t forget about ... Lee Campbell Gophers will need a healthy middle linebacker vs. Shonn Greene.

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