Gophers tight end Brandon Lingen (shoulder) was cleared to practice this week and would give the offense a boost if he returns. He's a good blocker and turned in 100-yard receiving games last year against Michigan and Iowa. The Gophers will be without running back Shannon Brooks (broken foot) and receiver Rashad Still (shoulder), however. Reserve offensive tackle Chad Fahning (unspecified) is out as well.
On defense, they won't have linebacker Nick Rallis (elbow) or safety Ace Rogers (knee).
Etc.
• Freshman DE Tai'yon Devers and junior LB Jonathan Celestin have to sit out the first half after being ejected for targeting in the second half of last week's win over Oregon State. Junior LB Cody Poock is eligible to start the first half since his targeting penalty came in the first half against the Beavers.
• The Gophers will honor Jacob Wetterling and his No. 11 throughout the game. The Jacob Wetterling Resource Center has asked people to showcase the No. 11, which he wore in soccer, to raise awareness about making the world safer for children. Fans entering TCF Bank Stadium will receive stickers with No. 11 and "For Jacob" on them.
• Minnesota's offensive linemen have a competition going to see who records the most knock-down blocks this season. The winner receives the "Knock Down Cup," a trophy featuring a silver bowl. Senior right tackle Jonah Pirsig took an early lead last week, with newcomer Vincent Calhoun closest to him in the standings.
JOE CHRISTENSEN
