Rotating QBs

The decision to alternate Nathan Scheelhaase and Reilly O'Toole last week gave the Illinois offense a jump start. The Illini scored in the first half for the first time in five games. A similar system is likely.

Young and promising

The Illini hope to have freshman running back Donovonn Young, who suffered an ankle injury last week. The projected starter next year, he ran for two touchdowns against Wisconsin before being sidelined.

Wasted effort

Illinois has been wasting a defense that ranks ninth in the country in yards allowed and sixth in sacks. Turnovers and special teams mistakes have placed the defense in bad situations repeatedly.

Boost from St. Louis

Duane Bennett (O'Fallon) is the 13th Minnesota running back to surpass 2,000 yards for his career. He has 595 yards on the season and three touchdown runs.

Steady improvement

After numerous embarrassing losses, Minnesota has made strides in coach Jerry Kill's first season. The Gophers beat Iowa and lost to Michigan State by a touchdown.

Stu Durando