- Michigan's defense has not looked good against strong-armed quarterbacks this year, but there is a different element in this game. Minnesota QB Mitch Leidner isn't much of a downfield passer, but he is a very good runner. He's like a big tailback at QB, kind of a more limited version of Jordan Lynch of Northern Illinois, and Tim Tebow when he played at Florida. He presents a unique challenge for the Wolverines' defense. You saw that on the long drive at the end of the quarter which tied the game at seven.
- Michigan's first drive was impressive. Minnesota's defense is particularly vulnerable to a solid inside running game. Mark Weisman, Iowa's tailback, tore up the Minnesota defense last week. Wolverines are presenting more of the same.
- Minnesota coach Jerry Kill missing this game because of seizures is going to hurt the Gophers, obviously, but there also could an inspiring element to it.