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2. RB Rodrick Williams
Williams started some games in 2013, before losing the job in the middle of that season to David Cobb and only getting 23 carries last season in a backup role. Now that Cobb is gone to the NFL, with the Tennessee Titans, Williams is first in line to take over as Minnesota’s No. 1 running back this season.
The native Texan will surely be heavily involved in the game plan Thursday night, and a productive game from Williams will be necessary for the Gophers to keep the game competitive.