Minnesota Gophers Lose Top Two Running Backs to Injuries Ahead Rutgers Opener

The Minnesota Gophers will face Rutgers in their Big Ten opener without their top two running backs, Darius Taylor and A.J. Turner. Taylor, the team's leading rusher and pass catcher, is out due to a hamstring injury sustained earlier this season and will miss the game for a second consecutive time, while Turner is sidelined for the remainder of the season after a leg injury. In their absence, redshirt freshman Fame Ijeboi and graduate transfer Cam Davis are expected to carry the rushing duties, with Ijeboi showing promise in recent games and Davis providing experienced support. This running back situation presents a significant challenge for the Gophers' offense, which has shown a notable drop in scoring when Taylor is not on the field. Minnesota is cautious about Taylor's recovery, potentially resting him beyond the Rutgers game to ensure full health for the rest of the season. Meanwhile, Rutgers is also dealing with injuries, notably losing linebacker Moses Walker for the season, highlighting the physical toll in this matchup.