(John Autey/Pioneer Press/TNS)Andy Greder, Pioneer PressSat, November 29, 2025 at 6:31 PM UTC·1 min readThe Gophers are expected to get two key defensive players back against Wisconsin at Huntington Bank Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
Linebacker Devon Williams and cornerback John Nestor were not listed on the U’s unavailability report, setting up their return for the Battle for Paul Bunyan’s Axe.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementBoth will be welcomed back against the rival Badgers’ strong running game, especially Williams, the U’s leading tackler with 73 through 10 games.
Williams and Nestor were sidelined for the 38-35 loss to Northwestern at Wrigley Field last week and were badly missed as Minnesota gave up 525 total yards to the Wildcats.
Matt Kingsbury, who filled in for Williams last week, is listed as out, per the U, along with offensive lineman Kahlee Tafai and defensive lineman Sam Macy.
Minnesota will still be without backup safety Garrison Monroe, receiver Cristian Driver, defensive lineman Theo Randle, cornerback Simon Seidl and kicker Sam Henson. Offensive lineman DJ Shipp is listed as questionable.
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