The Call: Middle Tennessee State at Gophers

2:30 p.m. TCF Bank Stadium • TV: BTN • Radio: 100.3 FM Line: Gophers by 16 • Series: Gophers lead 1-0

Gophers vs. MTSU

By JOE CHRISTENSEN • jchristensen@startribune.com

Middle Tennessee went 2-10 three years ago but is 17-9 since, including a 61-7 victory in last week's opener over Savannah State. The Blue Raiders knocked off Georgia Tech in 2012 and are picked to finish second this year in Conference USA's East Division, behind Marshall.

Middle Tennessee ranked 19th in the nation against the pass last year but 96th against the run. The Blue Raiders forced 33 turnovers, ranking fifth in the nation. Weakside linebacker T.T. Barber is among the top defensive players in Conference USA. The Gophers hope Mitch Leidner finds a quick passing rhythm, with WR Drew Wolitarsky back from his shoulder injury. Advantage: Gophers

Middle Tennessee's strength is its running game. Reggie Whatley had 65 yards on nine carries against Savannah State and had a 66-yard run called back by penalty. The Blue Raiders are trying to replace Logan Kilgore, a three-year starter at quarterback who set the school record for TD passes (53). Austin Grammer completed 15 of 17 passes for 250 yards in the opener. Advantage: Gophers

Middle Tennessee sophomore Cody Clark has made eight consecutive field goals. Between Peter Mortell's punting, Ryan Santoso's kicking and the blocked punt touchdown, the Gophers dominated special teams in their opener. Advantage: Gophers

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Leidner shows improvement, while RBs David Cobb and Berkley Edwards combine for 250 all-purpose yards.