Big Ten Football Week 3: Purdue vs. USC Preview & Predictions 2024

Minnesota⁣ Rushing Attack Faces Stiff Test‌ Against Cal’s Run ‍Defense: A Week 3 Preview

This week’s matchup between⁣ Minnesota ⁣and Cal promises a compelling clash of styles, centered around a battle in the ⁢trenches. Successfully ⁣navigating ‍this contest will likely determine the victor.⁢ Let’s break ⁤down what you need to know.

The Key Matchup: Gophers’ Ground Game vs. bears’ Front Seven

Minnesota boasts a ​potent rushing ⁣attack, spearheaded by Darius Taylor and Grant Washington. However, Taylor is currently nursing an injury, leaving his‌ status uncertain. This situation could present an chance for Cal,⁣ but don’t underestimate the depth of talent minnesota possesses at the running back position.

Cal, conversely, has ​established itself as a defensive force against the run.⁣ They’ve​ limited‌ opponents ‌to a mere⁢ 58.5 rushing yards per ​game so far in 2025. This extraordinary​ statistic highlights their commitment to stopping the run and their ability to execute that‍ game plan.

Ultimately, the team ⁣that controls the line of scrimmage and dictates the pace of the game through their rushing or run-stopping prowess will likely emerge victorious.

What to ⁣Watch For

* ‍ taylor’s ⁢Availability: His health is a significant factor. If he’s limited or unable to play,it ​shifts the ⁣dynamic of Minnesota’s offense.
* ‍ Cal’s Defensive Line: They’ll need to consistently penetrate⁣ and ⁢disrupt‍ Minnesota’s running lanes.
* Minnesota’s Offensive Line: Can they create enough space for their running backs to exploit?
* Game Flow: ​ A fast-paced, high-snap-count game could favor Minnesota, while a ‌more purposeful,⁢ possession-based approach might benefit Cal.

Expert Predictions

based on​ current form and key matchups,⁢ here’s ‌how this game is shaping up:

* Against the Spread: Minnesota is favored to cover.
* Points ​Total: The “Under” on the points total is the smart bet. Expect a lower-scoring, more physical contest.
* Outright Winner: Minnesota is projected to win the​ game.

This matchup is‌ poised to⁣ be a hard-fought battle. You can expect a physical contest where every yard will be ⁣contested. Keep a ‌close⁢ eye ‍on the ​trenches – that’s where this game will be won or‍ lost.