The Gophers football program from 2000-present has had its share of ups and downs, but taken as a whole … things haven't been that bad. While it is easier than ever to make a bowl game, the Gophers have been to one in 12 of those 16 season (75 percent). And when you compile the best starting lineup comprised of players from this century, some pretty impressive players get left off.
That's the takeaway after looking at ESPN.com's list of the Gophers' all-century team (2000-present). While there are some obvious choices such as Marion Barber III and Laurence Maroney at running back, that leaves off David Cobb and Gary Russell.
At tight end, Matt Spaeth got the nod, though Ben Utecht and Maxx Williams are also worthy choices.
Much of the list ended up looking like a combination of Glen Mason's best offensive players and Jerry Kill's best defensive players. That's probably how it should be.
Read Michael Rand's blog at startribune.com/randball. michael.rand@startribune.com.
