One of the most improved players in spring camp for the Gophers is junior safety Jacob Huff. He's the twin brother of linebacker Julian Huff — a more prominent name for Gophers fans, with six tackles for a loss over the past two years.

The Gophers need to replace stalwart safety Damarius Travis but have freshman All-American Antoine Winfield Jr., to fill one of those spots. If Jacob Huff and Duke McGhee continue progressing, it would give the coaches the flexibility to use Winfield more in a nickel role, taking advantage of his outstanding coverage skills.

After an impressive practice Tuesday, coach P.J. Fleck was asked what he saw, in general, that he liked throughout the day? Fleck's first answer of the day steered right toward No. 17.

"I like Jacob Huff," Fleck said. "All he does is make plays. This was our ninth practice, and every single play that kid has made — an interception, he's knocked down the ball — his hands are around the football."

Gridiron Gold: startribune.com/gophers