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P.J. Fleck offers status updates on TE Jake Paulson, OL Daniel Faalele for Outback Bowl
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Minnesota could be very short-handed on the offensive line when it takes the field against Auburn in the Outback Bowl on New Year’s Day.
Saturday, head coach P.J. Fleck offered a status update on tight end Jake Paulson and right tackle Daniel Faalele, both of which have been questionable for the showdown against Auburn. Fleck confirmed that Paulson will not be available for the Outback Bowl, and that Faalele will be a game-time decision.
#Gophers coach PJ Fleck ruled out tight end Jake Paulson for the Outback Bowl; his left arm was in a sling at Friday’s practice.
Fleck said right tackle Daniel Faalele (lower left leg) is a game-time decision. Fleck added Faalele is improving, but he didn’t practice Friday.
— Andy Greder (@andygreder) December 28, 2019
Paulson appeared in nine games for the Golden Gophers this season. He caught four passes for 51 yards. Faalele played in 11 games this season and has made appearances in 21 career games along the offensive line.
Minnesota’s offensive line struggled to start the year but jelled as the season continued. Faalele has been a big reason for the offensive success the Gophers had throughout the year, and his absence would be a huge blow.
The Gophers enter the Outback Bowl with a 10-2 record, while Auburn sits at 9-3.
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