Minneapolis-The USC offensive line, (as tweeted by CFB late in the third) took over the game in the fourth quarter by opening holes in the Minnesota Defensive Line play after play leading the Trojans to a 32-21 win.
Both schools game out with their Game Plans. The Golden Gophers were patient with their up the middle running game in hopes of negating the perimeter speed of the Trojans. USC had the opposite approach. Coach Kiffen tried to distribute the ball quickly to its athletes in space.
The game was very close with both teams having momentum throughout the first 2 quarters. With 5 minutes left in the third, QB Adam Weber hit Dajon McKnight for a 31 yard TD putting Minnesota in front 14-13. USCs Robert Woods then ran back the kickoff 97 yards for a touchdown to retake the lead 19-13. After that return which seemed to take a lot of steam out of the Gophers, the Trojan offensive line started to wear down the Minnesota defensive line and produced gaping holes play after play. With USC up 26-14, RB Allen Bradford ran through a huge hole for a 56 yard touchdown. The Trojan defense then shut down the Gophers for the rest of the fourth quarter except for a very late touchdown against a prevent defense.
Key Points:
Minnesota: I liked the patience displayed by the offensive coordinator even though it wasnt terribly successful. The defense played much better but eventually fatigued in the 4th. Having #27 Theret back at safety was a help. The defensive line was able to apply more pressure than in past games.
USC: QB Barkley is very accurate and can fit the ball in tight windows if he has two. The pass rush needs improvement. The secondary covers well man to man. The offensive line blocked the run very well but could improve some in pass protection.
CollegeFootballBreakdown.com-Big Ten Analyst-John Jacobson