Way-too-early rankings of Big Ten defensive units ahead of the 2024 season

Oregon's Bryce Boettcher, 28, celebrates a defensive stop against Hawaii during the first half.
Oregon's Bryce Boettcher, 28, celebrates a defensive stop against Hawaii during the first half. / =Chris Pietsch/The Register-Guard / USA
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. . . 15. . minn. . 487. .

The Golden Gophers may stand a chance to be toward the top of the conference standings this season but it won't be due to their defense.

Minnesota has been repeatedly blown out by its Big Ten opponents over recent years and allowed nearly 27 points per game last season, putting them at No. 71 nationally.

In 2024, the Gophers have to play in Ann Arbor for their most difficult road game and also have to host the UNC Tar Heels, USC Trojans, and Penn State Nittany Lions for tough opponents at home.