Minnesota at Illinois

Recap

The Big Storyline: Minnesota got off to an off-kilter start on bars, with a fall from Mya Hooten. Illinois had a great start on vault, but mistakes on beam and floor held the Illini back. The Gophers had a strong meet on the other three, although Hooten did sit out of floor, allowing Maddie Quarles to make her lineup debut.

Implications: Illinois is in danger of being left behind by the middle of the Big Ten. It needs to start sitting more regularly in the low-196s to keep pace as we get deeper into February. Minnesota remains the clear Big Ten No. 2 behind Michigan, keeping safe distance above Michigan State. That being said, this isn’t the big away number the Gophers would’ve hoped for.

Controversies: There were a number of judging conferences in this one, usually surrounding start value issues. The meet referee appeared to get involved at least once.

Preview

Current Rankings: No. 5. Minnesota at No. 26 Illinois

Why You Should Clear Space on Your DVR: This should be a great, true Big Ten matchup. Both teams lost to other Big Ten teams last week, so they will be looking to bounce back this week. 

You Can Fast Forward, but not Through This: Minnesota will be showcasing its nationally ranked dynamic duo in this meet with No. 1 all-arounder Lexy Ramler and No. 1 vaulter Ona Loper, so watch for the 10s to come for those two. Some Illinois routines you can’t fast forward through are Mia Townes on vault (she’s ranked No. 21 in the country) and sophomore Amelia Knight’s team-leading beam and floor routines.