The Gophers have figured out the Big Ten formula...running with the pigskin. This is a different offensive identity than most people are used to seeing based on a great deal of shifting and men in motion. 1,000-yard rusher David Cobb heads a group of tailbacks that joins forces with a quarterback rushing attack. With all of the blockers up front also back in the fold this has the makings to be one of the big surprise teams of 2014.

While the running game reigns supreme in Minneapolis the passing game gets totally ignored. To improve on an eight win season a quarterback has to be taught to throw the ball just a bit more. This factor just took a major blow when Philip Nelson - the team's best passer - decided to transfer out of the program. Part-time starter Mitch Leidner is more of a runner. The only receiver to record more than 20 receptions was Derrick Engel and he's gone.