The set-up: This is the Big 10 Conference opener for both sides and I'm expecting a battle until the end. The Golden Gophers are 3-0 after beating New Mexico State, Fresno State and Miami Ohio, while Maryland is now 2-1 after getting upset at home by Temple last week. Note that this is a big time revenge game for the Golden Gophers as well after Maryland beat Minnesota on the road 31-24 last season.

The teams: Last year the Gophers finished 30th in overall defense and 11th against the pass in allowing only 174.5 YPG through the air. The unit lost a bunch of faces, but it's still allowing just 184.3 YPG through the air this season. RB Bryce Williams had 141 yards on 33 carries last week. QB Zack Annexstad suffered an ankle injury, but he still finished with 142 yards and two TD's before leaving. He's likely going to start here, but if he doesn't, it'll be Tanner Morgan, who was 1 of 5 with an INT last week. But with a week of preparation, Morgan should look a lot better here if he does have to play. Besides, Minnesota will be focusing on its ground game and defensive play to win this game anyways.

The Terps went just 1 of 12 on third downs last week against a mediocre Owls defense and now they face one of the toughest units in the country. Maryland passed for just 63 yards and totalled 195 last Saturday. Remember, Temple had already posted losses against Buffalo and FCS Villanova as well. QB Kasim Hill was 7 of 17 for 96 yards and a pick.

The pick: Maryland's rattled and ripe for the picking. Minnesota comes in on top form and in a revenge situation after last year's setback. The outright's possible, but grab the points.