When the Gophers return to the football field this week, they will do so as a ranked team for the first time in three years.

Despite not playing Saturday, the Gophers (6-1) moved into the 25th spot in both the Associated Press media and USA Today coaches polls, the latest milestone for a team that went 1-11 last year.

"We're pleased," coach Tim Brewster said. "But polls mean nothing now. At the end of the year, let's see where we're at."

The Gophers -- who won at Illinois 27-20 on Oct. 11 and visit Purdue on Saturday -- were one of six teams to move into the AP poll Sunday, after nine ranked teams lost last week. Minnesota was 28th in the AP poll last week and 27th in the coaches poll.

The last time the Gophers appeared in the AP Top 25 was Oct. 9, 2005, when they were 5-1 following a 23-20 victory at Michigan.

The following week, the No. 22 Gophers lost at home to No. 23 Wisconsin 38-34.

STAFF REPORT