Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
4. Minnesota QB Mitch Leidner
Leidner accounted for three touchdowns (two passing, one rushing) last week against Purdue, but don’t let that obscure the bad interception that he threw and a run-heavy game plan that kept him from being exposed (8-for-12 for 59 yards).
Leidner is sure to get the start against Nebraska, but he should cede more playing time to freshman Demry Croft during the game. If Leidner can’t pose a threat with his arm, the move to Croft could come very early in the game.
There’s some chance that Saturday will be last time Leidner starts a game, this season or his career at Minnesota. If he plays the way he did over the first four games and the Gophers lose, Leidner could go to the bench until further notice.