UNLV @ Minnesota preview

Last Meeting ( Aug 30, 2012 ) Minnesota 30, UNLV 27

Minnesota, coming off its first bowl appearance since 2009, hosts UNLV on Thursday in the season opener for both teams. The Gophers doubled their win total from three to six last season, including a 30-27, triple-overtime win at UNLV in their 2012 opener. This matchup should have a similar feel as the teams combine to return 34 of their 44 starters from last season.

Highlighting the Gophers’ 16 returning starters is defensive tackle Ra’Shede Hageman, who had a breakout season as a junior in 2012. However, Hageman and the Minnesota defense will have their hands full with UNLV’s rushing attack, especially senior running back Tim Cornett. The Rebels enter this season with new coordinators on offense and defense, including Tim Hauck – the younger brother of coach Bobby Hauck – running the defense.

TV: 7 p.m. ET, Big Ten Network. LINE: Minnesota -14

ABOUT UNLV (2012: 2-11, 2-6 Mountain West): The Rebels are coming off a tough season in which they went 0-6 on the road. Quarterback Nick Sherry, who threw 16 touchdowns and 17 interceptions as a freshman, is one of nine returning starters for the UNLV offense. The defense also returns nine starters, including sophomore defensive end Sonny Sanitoa, who led the Rebels with five sacks in 2012.

ABOUT MINNESOTA (2012: 6-7, 2-6 Big Ten): After an up-and-down year, the Gophers open their season at home for the first time since 2008. Minnesota began 2012 by winning four straight games but lost seven of its last nine, including a 34-31 defeat to Texas Tech in the Meineke Car Care Bowl. Sophomore quarterback Philip Nelson started Minnesota’s final seven contests and will continue to rely on senior running back Donnell Kirkwood, who hasn’t fumbled in his last 249 carries.

EXTRA POINTS

1. Cornett rushed for 100-plus yards eight times as a junior in 2012.

2. Minnesota’s first three opponents went a combined 6-30 last year.

3. UNLV returns its top seven receivers from last season.

PREDICTION: Minnesota 17, UNLV 14