Big Ten Football: Projecting The West Division

5. Minnesota

Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports

Goldy’s boys made some great strides in 2013. Yes, they beat the teams they were supposed to, but knocking off Northwestern and Nebraska was a pleasant surprise for Jerry Kill’s crew.

Unfortunately, quarterback Philip Nelson left town which essentially locks Mitch Leidner in as the starter. If he and running back David Cobb can produce, the Gophers may surprise a few teams. The problem is that Goldy doesn’t have many other offensive weapons of note.

Losing big-time defensive tackle Ra’Shede Hageman and safety Brock Vereen is going to sting. However, defensive end Theiren Cockran could develop to Hageman’s level and cornerback Eric Murray has shown promise.

The Gophers go 3-1 in non-conference play dropping their game at TCU. Big Ten games won’t be kind either, but they’ll pick up back-to-back wins over Purdue and Illinois.

Final Record: 5-7 (2-6)