For what its worth, I think the Gophers are not only a better balanced offense with Max Shortell but he throws the best ball I have seen from any Minnesota QB. Not Hankison, Not Carlson, Not Hohensee, Not Sauter, and no one in the past 20 years. They can lineup in power I and run power, play fake, or sprint draw. And when it comes to throwing the ball, it is best to throw it when they don't expect it. A Heavy Dose of Donnell will bring a safety down into the box. When Max had his best success against WMU they were still 8 or 9 in the box. We want to run it till they stop it. Then unleash a Max ball fake and throw in the intermediate area. 18-25 yards. This is where A.J. has been most effective. This stretches the linebackers back in coverage. And they will retreat the next time his takes a drop, wait. And hand it to Donnell on a draw play. And if I miss my guess Max will throw a couple of screens, to either or both Kirkwood and Maye.
If we are hitting on 8 cylinders as we were for a quarter and a half it should be enough to beat Syracuse. But whether its defense with some picks, a punt return, or special teams play. BEAT SYRACUSE!
