ife is always easier when you can run the ball, but unfortunately for the Gophers this season, they haven't made life too easy. The Gophers are only averaging 105.9 yards per game this season and have only eclipsed the 100-yard mark three times in their first seven games. They're 3-0 in those three games while being 1-3 in their other four games, in which they kept under 100 yards. The lone win? Their last time out against UCLA, a 21-17 win in comeback fashion.

That being said, they'll have a tough matchup this weekend against Maryland, whose run defense has been very good this season -- the strength of their defense -- allowing just 102.7 yards per game. Opposing rushing attacks have only gone over 100 yards three times, with two of those games ending with Maryland on the losing side.

It won't be easy, but establishing the run on Saturday would go a long way toward a potential Minnesota victory.