USC 19, Minnesota 17

The Jerry Kill era officially begins at the University of Minnesota!  Unfortunately it's with a loss, 19-17 to USC.  It was really a game of 2 half's, USC was clearly the better team in the first half, Minnesota was the better team in the second half.  It's hard to believe (especially after the terrible start by the Gophers) but it really was a winnable game for Minnesota (they had a FG attempt blocked in the 2nd half).  I hate seeing a loss but I'm actually okay with this loss, they were 20+ point underdogs, they were on the road, they were playing the first game with their new head coach, they were employing new offensive & defensive schemes and they were starting a new QB, all told, I think they played well.

Observations:
-I really like that the coaching staff was able to make some adjustments in the 2nd half to get the Gophers back into the game, that wasn't a strength under Tim Brewster.   
-Do we have a QB controversy already?   Max Shortell looked very impressive in relief of the injured MarQueis Gray.  I'm guessing not just yet, I'm betting both of them will continue to get playing time though.
-The pass rush still needs improvement, Matt Barkley had way too much time to throw for much of the game. Barkley looked pretty good for USC too BTW, he'll be playing on Sunday's.  
-IMO Gary Tinsley was the best player on either side of the field today for the Gophers, he was everywhere.
-Dan Orseske is a much improved punter from last year, that's huge, field possession can be crucial.  
-The offensive line needs to play much better going forward, Gray seemed to constantly be under pressure and there didn't seem to be many running lanes open on rushing calls.
-Tackling was much improved from last year, I really can't recall one play where a tackle was missed.   
-USC WR Robert Woods is good, he's probably the best WR the Gophers will see this year, they did make some adjustments in the 2nd half though that seemed to slow him down some.  He will be playing on Sundays too.
-Up next is New Mexico St next Saturday at TCF Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.
-I do not miss Tim Brewster!!