UI-Minnesota: 5 keys

Check out the latest line for Saturday's game here

1

How's the weather up there?

Ridiculously nice, if the midweek forecasts hold true. Highs will hit the upper 50s with sunny skies. Though the temperatures will be a bit lower with an 11 a.m. kickoff, the weather shouldn't be a factor. So much for the advantage the Gophers were going to have playing outside. Maybe next week for the South Dakota State game.

2

Which Juice Williams shows up?

If it's the guy who played in the third quarter against Michigan, Illinois has a chance to win. After struggling in the first half, Williams led an offense that gained 209 yards in the third quarter against the Wolverines. The Illini finished with 500 yards and looked a whole lot like the group that played so well in 2008. Remember, Williams set a Memorial Stadium record for single-game total offense last season against the Gophers, gaining 503 yards.

3

Who is Terry Hawthorne chasing down this week?

If the Gophers watched the tape of the Michigan game, nobody. On long runs or receptions, Minnesota should have somebody assigned to peel back to block No. 12. Hawthorne has earned himself a whole bunch of playing time. The Gophers have a problem if Hawthorne picks off one of Adam Weber's passes because there isn't anybody who can catch him.

4

Will Tim Brewster overprepare for the Illini?

Probably. Though he might not admit it this week, the game means more to the former Illini tight end than any other. He was interested in being the Illinois coach. When that didn't happen, he found a nice job in the Big Ten. As long as he coaches the Gophers, the game against Illinois will be a big deal to the players and the staff. Unfortunately, after next year's game, the teams will take a two-year break.

5

Which Illini is ready to have a big game?

With several Illini receivers dealing with injuries, go with redshirt freshman Jack Ramsey. He has been in the starting lineup, but hasn't gotten the ball thrown his way very often. If Minnesota worries first about the run, there will be holes in the secondary for Ramsey to exploit. Also, don't be surprised if the former high school quarterback throws an option pass one of these games.

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