Gophers offensive lineman Dominic Alford had surgery for a torn meniscus and expects to be out for two weeks, per his twitter account. Minnesota interim head coach Jeff Horton said it’s unlikely that Alford will play this weekend at Michigan State, but wouldn’t elaborate on the extent of the injury.

Fellow offensive lineman Matt Carufel is also doubtful for Saturday’s game, leaving the Gophers thin up front. Horton said Ryan Wynn will backup all five positions on the line should another starter go down.

Horton did provide some good news for a suddenly-beaten up Gophers team. Before practice Tuesday, Horton listed senior fullback Jon Hoese as “very doubtful” for Saturday with a hamstring injury, but seemed somewhat optimistic Wednesday that he could make a recovery and play against the Spartans.

“I think Hoese’s getting better, I think he’s got a shot,” Horton said after practice Wednesday. “He’s made some progress, so we’ll kind of monitor it again tomorrow…If he’s not ready, we’re not going to [play him], because I want him for at least the last two weeks.”