Quick hitters
A few highlights from the Gophers’ win over the Illini.
Published November 28, 2011
- Minnesota led from start to finish Saturday in its win against Illinois, the first time the Gophers had a lead for an entire game this season.
- The Gophers won a game by double digits for the first time since their 2009 victory over Purdue.
- After the loss, the University of Illinois fired head coach Ron Zook. He won the first six games of the season and lost the final six.
- Minnesota had its best pass defense performance of the year against Illinois, as the Illini only gained 78 yards through the air and averaged only 2.9 yards per attempt.
- MinnesotaâÄôs defense held the Illini to less than 100 yards in both passing and rushing. The last time that happened was 2006 against Temple.
- Sixth-year senior Kim Royston finished the season third in the Big Ten in tackles with 123 and had a conference-leading 71 solo tackles.
- Minnesota finished the season last in the Big Ten in total offense and averaged only 310 yards per game this season.
- The Gophers had 19 sacks on the year, more than double their total last year âÄî eight. They finished with a flurry and got five sacks against Illinois.
- Minnesota was last in the Big Ten in turnover margin with 17 turnovers and nine takeaways.
- Walk-on kicker Jordan Wettstein converted 43- and 51-yard field goals Saturday. The 51-yard kick was the longest of his career.
- Minnesota had only two penalties Saturday, the fewest penalties it had in a game all season.
- Sophomore RaâÄôShede Hageman recorded two sacks against Illinois, his first two sacks of the season.
