I can't remember a time when it seemed like both the Gophers offense and the Gophers defense was capable of absolutely dominating a B1G opponent, but here we are. Obviously all the caveats about the schedule apply, but these are power 5 football teams that the Gophers are clearly getting the better of on both sides of the ball which is just a joy to watch. Today the run game was tremendous and the defense didn't allow anything of note including a very encouraging stop at the goal line before halftime to hold Maryland to a field goal.
I had a couple negative words and I'll start with the special teams that continue to be a major concern. Today, the Gophers continued to have poor kickoffs, Douglas muffed a punt, Herbers had a short punt, and Lantz doinked in a very short kick. I also thought Tanner Morgan was off today as that deep throw to Bateman was never there and he threw a couple other "oh no" balls that just happened to find the turf instead of Maryland defenders hands. Tanner has done some really nice things this year, but when he does make a bad decision...it's a really, really bad one.
Obvisously, this was another terrific win that vastly exceeded my expectations so the good far outweighed the bad. It was great to see the Gopher defense continue to play stout without Kamal Martin (get well soon!) and to watch this Gopher offensive line and a variety of backs run up and down the field on Maryland.
Fleck and his staff continue to appear to be pressing all the right buttons as this team has not looked flat much at all since conference play began which is rare for a college team.