Gophers Football Player Brian Smith Dismissed For Violating Team Rules

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – Minnesota has dismissed wide receiver Brian Smith from the program for violating team rules.

The Gophers announced the move Tuesday without specifying Smith's violation. The walk-on from Milwaukee redshirted in 2013 and didn't play at all over the previous two seasons, but he became a starter this year and was second on the team with 17 receptions for 279 yards in eight games.

Behind Drew Wolitarsky, Tyler Johnson and Rashad Still, the Gophers could look to Eric Carter, Hunter Register or Melvin Holland for a heightened role without Smith in the mix.

Minnesota (6-2, 3-2) hosts Purdue (3-5, 1-4) on Saturday. Coach Tracy Claeys said right tackle Jonah Pirsig has been cleared to resume practicing after missing the last three games with a sprained ankle.

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