Minnesota Golden Gophers vs. Northwestern: 5 Players To Watch

Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

1. Minnesota QB Mitch Leidner

Leidner still has questions attached to him, but he postponed any effort to replace him by throwing for a career-high 264 yards last week. Easier opponents over their last three games has helped Northwestern remain among the best defenses in the country, but their effort against Stanford (six points and 240 yards allowed) is notable and can’t be forgotten.

Leidner stilll has to prove that he more than a mediocre quarterback, and Saturday’s game is a big test on the road against a good defense. If Leidner reverts back to how he looked against Kent State, calls for true freshman Demry Croft to at least take away some playing time will resurface.

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