CHICAGO — The Gophers played without two important defensive players against Northwestern at Wrigley Field on Saturday.

Linebacker Devon Williams and cornerback John Nestor were listed as out, according to the U’s unavailability report shared two hours before the 11 a.m. kickoff.

Williams has been a consistent presence in the middle of Minnesota’s defense with a team-leading 73 total tackles, 7 1/2 tackles for lost yards and 2 1/2 sacks in 10 games this season.

True freshman Emmanuel Karmo started next to LB Maverick Baranowski against the Wildcats. Matt Kingsbury was expected to see an expanded role.

Nestor, who has missed the Nebraska win earlier this season, had a team-high three interceptions, 38 total tackles and four TFLs in nine games.

Corners Za’Quan Bryan and Jai’Onte’ McMill

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