Tough defensive line play is needed to compete in a physical conference like the Big Ten.
If you can’t develop up front, it will be a tough day at the office.
Last year, the Gophers didn’t have necessary personnel to deploy a competitive defensive scheme. Creativity was hindered and opposing offenses wore Minnesota down, one hand-off at a time.
As the Gophers embark on a new season, spring practice will be a time to evaluate players and how they will fit in the scheme. Defensively, the Gophers are trying to improve a run defense which ranked 68th among FBS programs and a pass rush with just 23 sacks.