The Gophers offensive line could see changes to the starting lineup for Saturday’s game vs. No. 5 Wisconsin because of injuries.

Redshirt freshman center Conner Olson left last week’s game at Northwestern in the fourth quarter because of an injury to his lower left leg but returned to the game. However, his status for Saturday is uncertain, as is that of senior left guard Garrison Wright, who left last week’s game in the third quarter because of a left hand injury.

“We’re doing everything we can with Conner to get healthy, and Garrison, but we’ll see,” coach P.J. Fleck said.

If Olson and Wright can’t play, redshirt sophomore Bronson Dovich likely would start at center and redshirt sophomore Quinn Oseland at left guard.

The Axe, and more

The Gophers not only will attempt to end Wisconsin’s 13-year hold on Paul Bunyan’s Axe, which goes to the game’s winner, they also will try to derail the Badgers’ College Football Playoff hopes.

Gophers vs. Wisconsin

2:30 p.m. Saturday (Ch. 5)

“I don’t think I have to tell anybody what week it is,” said Fleck, whose team is a 17-point underdog. “We’re excited for the challenge. It’s a very unique challenge that we have, not just with the rivalry but with a team that’s 11-0, ranked in the top five.”

Added senior defensive back Adekunle Ayinde on the prospect of playing spoiler, “Oh, yeah. That would be very cool.”

Randy Johnson