Hawkeyes Football: Big Ten West Power Rankings Week Two

Mandatory Credit: Jordan Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

No. 4 – Minnesota Golden Gophers 2-0 (0-0)

While the Golden Gophers cruised to an easy 54-28 victory over Indiana State in week two, they had a test right off the bat against Oregon State. The Golden Gophers survived 30-23, but they needed a 13-point fourth quarter to complete the comeback.

Still, the Golden Gophers defense came up big late in the game against Oregon State by forcing a safety and stopping the Beavers on fourth down twice. Allowing four touchdowns to Indiana State is somewhat concerning, however three came in the second half once Minnesota was up 41-7. While you would like to see Minnesota’s defense stay tough all game, easing off the pedal a little in a blowout happens to every team.

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The biggest improvement for the Golden Gophers has come on offense, though. Mitch Leidner is a year removed from throwing 11 interceptions and only 14 touchdowns. He is the clear-cut starter this year and has thrived thus far. Leidner has thrown five touchdowns and no interceptions, while also completing 58.9 percent of his passes.

On the ground, three players have at least 16 carries on the season and all are averaging at least 4.7 yards per carry. Owning both a solid ground and air attack is rare in college football, especially when your quarterback can also use his legs.

The Golden Gophers will take on a good Colorado State team next weekend, however their first road test will be on October 1 at Penn State. The Golden Gophers have surprised everyone through the first two games, starting with an unexpected comeback against Oregon State.

They could have been number three this week but the inconsistency from Mitch Leidner last season still looms. If the defense holds up early in Big Ten play and Leidner doesn’t become turnover prone, again, then the Golden Gophers could make some noise this year.

Next: No. 3