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If you watched any of Minnesota’s trip to Ohio State on Saturday, you might’ve caught a glimpse of the future.
The Gophers ended up on the wrong side of a 30-14 outcome, but Minnesota put up an incredible fight against one of the best teams in the country. The defense got (some) pressure on Dwayne Haskins and limited the rushing attack. The offensive line was consistent and the running game was effective.
When it was said and done, the Gophers were receiving plenty of applause for their effort. And freshman running back Mohamed Ibrahim was named the B1G Freshman of the Week after racking up 157 yards and two touchdowns against the Buckeyes.
Minnesota is hoping to build on that momentum and carry forward for the second half of the season. And, at his weekly press conference, P.J. Fleck talked about how the Gophers can do that.
Here’s what Fleck had to say on Tuesday:
"I think our offensive line has made huge strides. Especially with two freshmen on the right. I think that Daniel (Faalele) has provided a huge spark." -Coach Fleck, on his offensive line making a turn.
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) October 16, 2018
"As we continue to grow, I see where we're going. And that's what I get excited about." -Fleck, on seeing his excitement surrounding his young team.
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) October 16, 2018
"He works so hard at his craft. He's always after practice working on his skills." -Fleck, on Carter Coughlin's performance this season.
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) October 16, 2018
"Statistics are statistics, but that's for everyone. Not just for us. You have to add the human element." -Fleck, on using statistics to put together his game plan.
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) October 16, 2018
"There's these little steps that he's making. The big things, that'll come later… I'm proud of the progress he's making." -Fleck, on Annexstad's progress through the season.
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) October 16, 2018
"Row the boat. Ski-U-Mah. Go Gophers."
That concludes today's press conference with Coach Fleck. Stay tuned for more information on this weekend's matchup.
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) October 16, 2018
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB