Gophers coach Jerry Kill gave some updates today on his weekly radio show on KFAN (100.3-FM):

* Offensive tackle Ben Lauer, who is recovering from a knee injury, broke a hand at Wednesday's practice and is questionable for the Ohio game.

* The Gophers have been giving reps to three true freshmen on the offensive line: Bronson Dovich, Quinn Oseland and Tyler Moore. Kill said Nick Connelly would be added to that list, but he suffered a concussion.

* Kill said the Gophers will have safety Ace Rogers back to face Ohio. Rogers had been out with a knee injury.

* Kill said true freshman Shannon Brooks will play against Ohio, adding "He's too good of a player to stand next to me." It sounds like it will be Brooks and redshirt freshman Rodney Smith with the bulk of the carries. Kill said that's not an easy decision with senior Rodrick Williams entering the year as a starter. "I love Rodrick to death," Kill said.