Minnesota Golden Gophers' Offensive Players to Watch vs. Ohio State Buckeyes
The No. 1 Ohio State Buckeyes may face a challenge against the Minnesota Golden Gophers this weekend - particularly on the ground.
Despite starting running back freshman Darius Taylor only playing five games this season, the Golden Gophers' offense has been better than advertised, ranking roughly middle of the Big Ten in total offense.
That said, the Gophers have struggled to put points on the board.
However, with their dominant defense, the Buckeyes should still hold a clear advantage over the Gopher on Saturday.
Regardless, here are the top Gophers on offense to watch vs. Ohio State on Saturday in Columbus.
Gophers' backfield
Taylor may have not played in a month, but sophomore back Jordan Nubin has picked up right where Taylor left off.
Nubin has run for 393 yards and two touchdowns in just four games, including bursting for 204 yards against the Spartans on Oct. 28.
Minnesota's ground attack ranks fifth in the conference in yards but, ranks No. 11 in rushing touchdowns. As long as the Buckeyes — who have the No. 4 red zone defense — can hold Minnesota — No. 8 red zone offense — from breaking out in big runs, they shouldn't have a problem containing the rush.
That said, if Taylor does return, the dynamic could change.
QB Athan Kaliakmanis
In his first full season as a starter, Kaliakmanis has been a bright spot for this offense. Although he's only thrown 13 touchdown passes.
In the last two games — losses to Purdue and Illinois — Kaliakmanis has been extremely good, throwing for a combined 459 yards, six touchdowns, and no interceptions.
If Ohio State can get pressure on Kaliakmanis early, however, they could cause some problems for the Gophers.
WR Daniel Jackson
Jackson was the Gophers' leading pass catcher last season and is on pace to be the leader again. His 681 receiving yards and seven touchdowns rank third in the conference — no other Minnesota receiver has eclipsed 350 yards on the season.
Jackson has also excelled in yards after catch. Standing at six-foot, 200 pounds, his average frame may be deceiving, as he is very physical and has been good at picking up several extra yards after contact.
