Can Gophers Take Next Step?

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — For the first time under coach Jerry Kill, Minnesota has made significant progress.

Last season, the Gophers doubled their Big Ten victory total of the previous two years. Their eight wins were the most the program had in a decade.

However, taking that next step can be tough. Minnesota must find a way to improve an offense that went 13 straight quarters last season without a touchdown until a couple of late scores in the bowl game. Three starters on defense are currently in NFL training camps.

Then there's a schedule that includes trips to TCU, Michigan, Nebraska and Wisconsin and back-to-back November home games against Iowa and Ohio State. But the Gophers believe confidence gained from last year will go a long way toward their success.