After ending the season with two physically dominating wins, the Gophers enter the offseason with optimism surrounding a young roster. Sixty of the 113 players on the 2018 roster were underclassmen – the highest number in the country. When injuries hit the depth chart, many young players were thrust into extended action. Minnesota’s offense featured eight key contributors that were freshmen or sophomores. When safety Antione Winfield Jr. was lost for the season with a foot injury, true freshman Jordan Howden played a prominent role. True freshman cornerback Terell Smith also started this season and performed at a high level.