The Minnesota Gophers Football team conducted a spirited open practice yesterday at Huntington Bank Stadium. It was pad-on-pad as the players battled for positions and prepared for the start of the season. Some players solidified their starting roles while others remained locked in contests for playing time.
And injuries have started to rear their heads as players have been asked to step up to handle new or expanded roles. There was a heavy emphasis on offense yesterday, and Drake Lindsey and the Gophers ‘ first-team offense got a lot of field time.
The first team defense was out there only sparingly, but that gave some under-the-radar players a chance to shine. We also received our first real look at Minnesota’s kick and punt units. Minnesota is the only Big Ten team to retain its head coach, offensive and defensive coordinators, and starting quarterback, and that continuity is clear when observing the team. In Part 1, we’ll review the Gophers’ offense.
Review of the Gophers’ Offensive Weapons
Gophers quarterback Drake Lindsey improves with each practice, throwing the ball well and smoothly running the offense. He played with poise, worked through his progressions more quickly, and demonstrated his command of the offense. Head coach P.J. Fleck and offensive coordinator Greg Harbaugh continue to challenge Lindsey to help him prepare for the grueling Big Ten season. Of note, senior Max Shikenjanski is firmly ensconced as Lindsey’s backup.
The Gophers’ running game continues to be led by senior Darius Taylor, but in an effort to keep him healthy, others have emerged as capable fill-ins. Elon transfer TJ Thomas stood out yesterday due to his slashing running style and proficiency as a pass catcher. It was nice to see A.J. Turner back on the field after his return from an ACL injury he suffered last season. And don’t sleep on freshman Ryan Estrada. He just arrived on campus, but coach Fleck loves how quickly he hits the hole on running plays.
The starting wide receiver group is set with Javon Tracy, Jalen Smith, and Cincinnati transfer Noah Jennings locking down those spots. Behind them are freshmen Quayd Hendryx and Hayden Moore and Tulsa transfer Zion Steptoe. Moore excelled at one of the previous indoor practices, catching two long bombs from Lindsey. And both Hendryx and Steptoe received multiple looks with the Gophers’ first unit yesterday and had some nice moments.
Injuries Open Up Opportunities
With Pierce Walsh out with a wrist injury, juniors Jullian Johnson and Jacob Simpson split time at tight end with the first unit. Neither distinguished themselves yesterday, but by all appearances they will be immediately behind Walsh on the depth chart to start the season. Kaden Helms was on the sidelines yesterday, but he should be in the mix when he is healthy. Four-star recruit Roman Voss is another one to keep an eye on. He ran some plays with the Gophers’ first unit, and Fleck loves his versatility.
The starting offensive line for the opening game against Eastern Illinois should be Nathan Roy at left tackle, Greg Johnson at left guard, Ashton Beers at center, Tony Nelson at right guard and DJ Shipp at left tackle. Johnson and Beers rested for most of the evening, giving some reserves some time with the starting unit. With backup center Brett Carroll expected to miss considerable time with a knee injury, sophomore Mark Handy took the majority of snaps at center.
And with Johnson sitting out most of practice, Nelson moved to left guard, and the Gophers slotted junior Jaden Ball at the other guard spot. Unfortunately for Ball, he went down twice in practice with a leg injury. His current status is unknown. And Tennessee transfer Bennett Warren, who was supposed to compete for the left tackle position, was on the sidelines with a sleeve on his right knee.
Coming Up
Next time, we’ll give updates on the Gophers defense and special teams. We’ll also share some after-practice comments from coach Fleck, Drake Lindsey, and Anthony Smith.
