Two views: Why the Gophers will or won't win Saturday vs. Ohio State

November 15, 2014 at 7:22AM
Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett plays against Illinois during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete) ORG XMIT: otk_fbc_11012014_016
Ohio State quarterback J.T. Barrett plays against Illinois during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 1, 2014, in Columbus, Ohio. (AP Photo/Jay LaPrete) ORG XMIT: otk_fbc_11012014_016 (The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Why they won't …

Ohio State has all the talent, motivation and momentum a coach could want. They should be locked-in, driving toward not only a Big Ten title but a spot in the College Football Playoff. They have as many playmakers, including breakout star QB J.T. Barrett, pictured, as all the Gophers' conference opponents to date have combined.

Why they might …

In the Gophers' four biggest recent victories — Nebraska, Penn State, Michigan, Iowa — they had strong starts and halftime leads. In their letdowns, they've stumbled at the start. If the Gophers hang tough from the opening kick, don't give up big plays and allow Mitch Leidner to build confidence in the pocket, expect an exciting fourth quarter.

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Jerry Holt/The Minnesota Star Tribune

The Gophers missed their first 10 shots but rallied in the second half against the last-place Scarlet Knights.

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