Gophers coach P.J. Fleck and Iowa’s Kirk Ferentz, both steeped in the rivalry’s tradition, have seen the past three meetings decided by 10 points combined.

Through three weeks, the Gophers defense has proven itself as the team’s biggest strength. The unit is coming off of back-to-back shutouts for the first time since 1962. Only one other team in the country — Missouri — has posted two shutouts this season already.

Both Iowa and Minnesota enter Saturday's matchup with 2-1 records with a loss at home against a major conference opponent — North Carolina for the Gophers and Iowa State for the

The Hawkeyes had won eight straight in this historic series before a controversial finish last season in Iowa City. To keep Floyd of Rosedale, the Gophers will need to overcome Iowa’s stifling run defense.