Minnesota undoubtedly misses the services of Mohamed Ibrahim, the dynamic running back who is lost for the season because of injury. But sophomore Treyson Potts picked up the slack with 178 yards and 2 TDs last week against Miami-Ohio, and the Gophers still have a versatile talent at QB in Tanner Morgan. The Buffaloes are in a letdown spot after they outplayed Texas A&M almost write to wire last week, only to come up three points short. Moreover, their crowd advantage at Folsom Field is diminished somewhat during day games.

A gold star for the Buffaloes’ rush defense, which has permitted 118 yards in two outings and nearly salvaged a win over Texas A&M, which managed 10 points last week. Minnesota lost tireless RB Mohamed Ibrahim to injury in the opener, and the Gophers averaged a modest 3.8 yards per carry in a narrow victory over Miami (Ohio). Colorado’s offense has been unimpressive, but it should show a little pep against a so-so defense in Minnesota's first road game.

I don't trust Colorado. Its defensive numbers have been solid to start the season, but my eyes tell me different. Minnesota is a team that's happy to control the clock and keep things close, and I think the Gophers offense will be able to do precisely that on Saturday, so I'm going to take the field goal.