Gophers Running Back Taylor Returns for Oregon Game

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. — Star running back Mo Ibrahim is officially active for the Minnesota Gophers’ game against Oregon on Friday. This will be Ibrahim’s first game since he logged just one carry in Week 9 against Iowa due to injuries.

This season, injuries have limited Ibrahim to 96 touches over six games. He suffered a hamstring injury in Week 2 against Northwestern State, which caused him to leave the game and miss the next two contests against California and Rutgers. Although he returned to play against Ohio State, Purdue, and Nebraska, he exited early against the Hawkeyes and also missed the game against Michigan State.

Since joining the Gophers before the 2023 season, Michael has not consistently logged more than 10 total touches per game. Over his three-year career, he has faced multiple injuries, making Minnesota’s offense more efficient when he is healthy. On Friday night, he will have support from backup running backs Fame Ijeboi and Cam Davis.

In addition to Ibrahim’s return, Minnesota will see the return of starting cornerback Za’Quan Bryan, who was injured in warmups before the Michigan State game. Wide receiver Logan Loya, who has played 113 snaps, and cornerback Mike Gerald, with 59 snaps, are both back after being sidelined with injuries. However, defensive lineman Rushawn Lawrence, who has logged 238 snaps this season, is questionable after appearing on the injury report for the first time this season.

Injury updates also affect the Gophers, with wide receiver Kenric Lanier II (138 snaps) and defensive back Garrison Monroe (49 snaps) both out for the game. Linebacker Joey Gerlach has been ruled out for the season, having played only 63 snaps this year.

Oregon is facing injury challenges as well, with leading receiver Dakorien Moore set to miss his second straight game. Tight end Kenyon Sadiq is a game-time decision for Friday’s matchup.