Week 5: Minnesota at Ohio State

The return of Chris Wells has been overshadowed by the ascension of freshman quarterback Terrelle Pryor, who has turned Columbus on its ear. He’s averaged five yards in the running game, and has four touchdown tosses and just one interception on 21-of-33 passing. Minnesota has just six sacks and ranks ninth against the run defense, suggesting Tim Brewster and his staff will be pulling their hair out on Saturday afternoon.

The Buckeyes have not done well against the run this year, so Minnesota will rely on a heavy offering of DeLeon Eskridge to start the game. Eskridge has five touchdowns over the past two games and gives Minnesota its best chance of staying competitive in this game.

Big plays could come in the return game. Ohio State’s Ray Small is a dynamic punt returner whose 18.9-yard average per return leads the Big Ten. No kick returner has been as impressive as Minnesota freshman Troy Stoudermire, who has averaged 30.7 yards on his nine returns.

Notes:

Minnesota has been outscored by the Buckeyes 74-7 in the last two meetings of this series.

Ohio State may win this game simply by controlling the football. Not only is their running game intact for the first time in a few weeks, but they are facing a team ranked dead last in first downs allowed.

Key Player (Gophers) – Eric Decker, WR

The Gophers’ receiving corps is a one-man show. Decker has collected 100-plus yards in each of the past two weeks, but he has received little support from his fellow receivers and this week faces Malcolm Jenkins and a Buckeye secondary that aims to neutralize him.

Key Player (Buckeyes) – Chris Wells, RB

Welcome back, Beanie! Fans will keep a close eye on No. 28, analyzing his every step to see whether the Heisman candidate is back to top form. Last year against the Gophers Wells gained 116 yards and scored two touchdowns in the first quarter.

Ohio State by 23