2006 Minnesota Golden Gophers Football Preview

2006 Minnesota Golden Gophers season preview from Maddux Sports. Features an indepth look at the team, some info about the university, and the 2006 Minnesota Golden Gophers Football Schedule. When you go to handicap NCAA football in 2006 consider using Maddux's College football spread picks for the added edge over your bookie this year. In addition don't forget to bookmark our free live College odds feed for the upcoming season.

Coach: Glen Mason (10th year at Minnesota)
Team Name: Golden Gophers
2005 Overall Record: 7-5
2005 Big 10 Conference Record 4-4
Returning Starters: 12

The Gophers offense lost three All-Americans from last year. Plus, star running back Gary Russel, who compiled more than 1,100 yards in his sophomore season, may not return due to academic issues. Russel had 186 carries last season and scored 18 touchdowns.

That means QB Bryan Cupito (2,530 YDS, 19 TDs, 9 INTS), who is not the strongest passer or decision maker in the Big 10, will have to step up and perform with more verve. He’s improved over the 23 games he’s started and may be ready for the next step.

Two wides take the field again-- Logan Payne (37 REC, 529 YDS, 2 TDs) and Ernie Wheelwright (37 REC, 568 YDS, 5 TDs). Overall, the line looks solid but not exceptional.

The defense was a major problem last season, with conference opponents piling up 34 PPG against Minnesota and all opponents scoring an average of 29 PPG. The secondary and linebackers look the best, but even those aspects of the “D” are suspect.

Minnesota has got a tough road ahead. All-American RB Laurence Marony and All-American linemen Greg Eslinger and Mark Settersome will not be taking the field in 2006. The team’s best hope for a conference win is against Indiana. Another one may come when they go to Michigan State. Don’t expect seven wins or a bowl bid this year.

Minnesota Football Schedule

Date	Opponent	Home/Road
Aug 31	Kent State	Road
Sep 9	California	Road
Sep 16	Temple	Home
Sep 23	Purdue	Road
Sep 30	Michigan	Home
Oct 7	Penn State	Home
Oct 14	Wisconsin	Road
Oct 21	North Dakota St	Home
Oct 28	Ohio State	Road
Nov 4	Indiana	Home
Nov 11	Michigan State	Road
Nov 18	Iowa	Home

 

For more info on this years 06 Minnesota football team visit the Golden Gophers official athletic site, or read up on their competition via all of the big 10 team previews below.