The Gophers have two freshmen entrenched at tailback, in Rodney Smith and Shannon Brooks, but coach Jerry Kill said he's not concerned that this might create discontent among the team's older running backs.
Senior Rodrick Williams started the season opener but didn't have any carries last week against Ohio. Sophomore Berkley Edwards, who dealt with an ankle injury during training camp, has yet to play this season.
"Rodrick is a good teammate," Kill said Tuesday. "He wants to play. The way the injuries have been going, you've got to be ready. He's been called on in special teams, and he plays his butt off. He's got a good attitude."
On Saturday at Northwestern, the Gophers likely will start Smith (4.4 yards per carry), with Brooks (8.2) off the bench, followed by Williams (3.3).
"I think communication's good," Kill said. "Berkley, you know, I think people want to win. Can you keep everybody satisfied? No. But we don't have any problems in the [running back] room or anything like that."
Gentry to play more
Kill said freshman wide receiver Isaiah Gentry could have an increased role at Northwestern. Gentry had two catches for 36 yards against Ohio.
"Isaiah's had a great week of practice, so I'd look for him to play more and do things," Kill said. "He's a very talented kid, as you saw when he catches the ball. He's explosive."
Students responding
The Gophers have sold 8,485 student season ticket packages, up from 6,100 last year, 4,975 the year before that and 3,885 in 2012.