Minnesota looks for bowl eligibility

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Nov 9, 2012 at 6:41 am

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (KNSI) The University of Minnesota football team travels to Champaign, Illinois this weekend to take on the University of Illinois.

The Gophers started the season 4-0 under second year coach Jerry Kill, but have struggled in Big Ten Conference play, losing four of five games.

With a 5-4 record overall, Minnesota needs just one more win to become bowl eligible.

Saturday's game against Illinois represents their best chance to pick up a sixth victory. The Illini are winless in conference games, and are 2-7 overall. Game time is 2:30 pm.

The Gophers close out Big Ten play with games at Nebraska and at home against Michigan State.

Minnesota will play tomorrow's game with a thin group of wide receivers. Starter A.J. Barker has a sprained ankle that could keep him out for a second straight week. Backup receiver Derrick Engel has been ruled out because of a hamstring injury.