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A Minnesota-Missouri matchup doesn’t come along very often. This year’s Citrus Bowl will mark the first time these two teams have met since 1970 and just the ninth meeting overall.
In order to give Missouri fans a better idea of what to expect on New Year’s Day, here’s a look at five Minnesota players every Missouri fan needs to know about.
- TE Maxx Williams — If you’re looking for a star on this year’s Minnesota team, you don’t have to look very far. Tight end Maxx Williams was a second-team All-American and a finalist for this year’s Mackey Award. He leads the team in receptions, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns. He’s vastly improved his blocking and at 6-foot-4, 250-pounds, Williams is also a big, reliable target in the passing game. Williams is expected to declare early for the NFL Draft following the bowl game.
- QB Mitch Leidner — A dual-threat QB, Mitch Leidner has proven to be a playmaker with his arm and his legs. Although his passing numbers aren’t spectacular (1,540 yards, 10 TD, 8 INT), his ability to run the ball makes him very dangerous. Leidner only has 462 yards rushing, but his 10 touchdowns are second on the team and second-most in the Big Ten conference for quarterbacks. He’s got the speed to break contain if Mizzou’s pass rushers get a good push at the line of scrimmage.
- RB David Cobb — At 5-foot-11, 220-pounds, Cobb is a stout running back for Minnesota. He racked up 1,548 yards and 13 touchdowns on the season and was one of Minnesota’s most consistent producers. He never went more than one game at a time without going over 100 yards rushing and twice surpassed 200 yards rushing. Cobb will be the focus for the Golden Gophers offensive during the game, especially in order to neutralize Missouri’s pass rush.
- LB Damien Wilson — There’s no question, Wilson is the team’s defensive leader. A senior linebacker for the Gophers, Wilson is the team leader in tackles by a large margin. His 111 total tackles outpaces the second-most on the team by 34 tackles. In addition to be a tackling machine, Wilson is the team leader in sacks and tackles for loss.
- DB Briean Boddy-Calhoun — Calhoun will be the likely candidate to defend Bud Sasser. He’s broken up eight passes and leads the team with four interceptions. In coverage, he is Minnesota’s best option and will be tasked with containing the receivers on those extended, down the field passing plays.
Drew Laing will be providing analysis and insight on Florida, Georgia, Missouri and South Carolina.
