When Mohamed Ibrahim runs for 224 yards and four touchdowns, the Gophers offensive line is happy.
Because Ibrahim's performance helped the team beat Illinois 41-14, yes, and because the unit contributed key blocks to send him on his way down the field. But also because that merits a sweet reward from the running backs.
"They brought in doughnuts the other day, and Mo delivered," O-line coach Brian Callahan said. "… He's probably the most popular guy on the team, in terms of being a teammate. So we love him. We're very proud of what he's done. And we know we have a small piece to play in it."
For a group that doesn't accrue stats — beyond doughnuts earned — Ibrahim's ascension to leading rusher in the Big Ten is tangible evidence of the O-line's effort this season. And the group managed it even without two starters.
The Gophers will need continued line excellence against Iowa on Friday, as the Hawkeyes sport the best rush-defense in the Big Ten. They've allowed an average of just 102 yards per game and just four rushing scores through three games.
Gophers right tackle Daniel Faalele and right guard Curtis Dunlap Jr. have yet to play. Dunlap has roamed the sideline during games while recovering from a left foot injury, while Faalele hasn't appeared, potentially out of COVID-19 precaution. Callahan said he is in constant contact with the two but declined to give any more specifics on their absences or a timeline for return.
Losing 6-9, 400-pound Faalele and 6-5, 345-pound Dunlap forced a scramble, with Sam Schlueter at left tackle, Axel Ruschmeyer at left guard, John Michael Schmitz at center, Conner Olson at right guard and Blaise Andries at right tackle.
Schlueter, Olson and Andries are multiyear starters, while Schmitz was often rotated in last season or deployed in a six-man formation. Ruschmeyer is the new face, with Nathan Boe taking some of his snaps during a brief injury in the Maryland game.