I wouldn't be surprised if the game becomes a shootout. At the same time, the Gophers held Ohio State to 92 total yards rushing in Columbus before the DC change, and Wisconsin's RB Taylor (1989 yards rushing for the year, ~170/g) was held to 120 in Madison last week in our route. Run "D" is our strength, though I'm not sure how we will fare against the triple option.
The DC was fired after the Illinois game. That was after game 9. Versus Purdue (who smoked Ohio State), N'western (Big Ten West Champs), and Wisconsin (Big Ten Pre-Season Champ favorite), we held them to 10, 14, 15, respectively.
As for the Maryland game, a Minnesota player died a few days before the game, and it definitely showed. Was also the first road game and Big Ten game. Not trying to make excuses, but it was clear the team was not "there". To be fair as well, Maryland gives Minnesota fits the way we give Penn State fits. Sometimes it's about match-ups.