SPRING OBJECTIVES
The Gophers will install another new defensive system with the arrival of Ted Roof as defensive coordinator. The Gophers are expected to have at least seven new starters on defense so this will be a fresh start for everyone.

The Gophers will be without their top two receivers from 2007. Ernie Wheelwright graduated and Eric Decker is playing for the school's baseball team. Senior tight end Jack Simmons also will be held out of spring drills after having foot surgery. Those absences should open the door for young guys, but the coaches are counting on at least three members of the incoming recruiting class to play significant roles.

The offensive line needs to be solidified with the departure of center Tony Brinkhaus and left tackle Steve Shidell.

BUILDING BLOCKS
QB Adam Weber returns after a record-setting freshman season as the starter. Weber showed plenty of promise and potential operating Mike Dunbar's zone-read spread offense and the coaching staff believes he will make sizable improvement in his second season. Weber is a terrific athlete who looks like a natural in this system.

DE Willie VanDeSteeg had a disappointing junior season after suffering a broken hand in the first week. VanDeSteeg is finally healthy and can be a pass-rushing force on the edge, which was lacking from the defense last season.

Senior TE Jack Simmons excels as a receiver, but a foot injury derailed his entire 2007 season. Simmons can be a security blanket for Weber over the middle and present problems for linebackers in coverage because of his size, speed and route running.

SCHEDULE SITUATION
The Gophers nonconference schedule is as soft as a marshmallow. They play Northern Illinois, at Bowling Green, Montana State and Florida Atlantic. Anything less than 3-1 in that stretch should cause fans to sound the alarm bell. The season will be judged by how the team fares in the Big Ten, which starts with a trip to Ohio State. Home games against Indiana and Northwestern look like the best opportunities for victory.

QUOTE TO NOTE
"I sense that this is a group of players that is very willing to work. And as a teacher or coach, you're always excited to work with a group of guys that want to get better." -- Ted Roof on his attempt to rebuild a defense that finished last nationally in total defense.

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