Gophers Shock No. 25 Nebraska wiht Dominant Performance, 14-10
MINNEAPOLIS – In a stunning upset, the Minnesota Gophers defeated No. 25 nebraska 14-10 Friday night, showcasing a mature offensive approach and a relentless defensive performance.the victory marks a significant moment for Minnesota, highlighting key developments on both sides of the ball. Here are five takeaways from the Gophers’ triumph:
1. Lindsey‘s Maturity Shines Against Top Pass Defense: Quarterback Cole Lindsey didn’t force plays, completing 16 of 20 passes for 153 yards and two total touchdowns. While not his most statistically notable game, it was arguably his most mature, as he expertly took what Nebraska’s No. 1 ranked pass defense gave him. He was 8 of 10 for 52 yards in the first half as Minnesota leaned heavily on the run.
2. Defensive Line Dominates, Records Season-High Sacks: Minnesota’s defensive line delivered a season-high nine sacks, capitalizing on Nebraska’s offensive line struggles and the second-quarter ejection of Cornhusker left tackle Elijah Pritchett due to a targeting penalty.The Gophers held Nebraska quarterback Dylan Raiola to a season-low 177 passing yards.
3. Offensive Line Shuffle Fuels Rushing Attack: The Gophers made significant changes to their offensive line, shifting Nathan Roy (left tackle) and Ashton Beers (center) remained in place, while Greg Johnson moved from right tackle to left guard, Marcellus Marshall from left guard to right guard, and Dylan Ray from right guard to right tackle. This reshuffling resulted in Minnesota’s best rushing performance of the season and limited Nebraska to just one sack.
4. Taylor Returns to Form with Explosive Run: Running back Darius Taylor appeared fully recovered from a hamstring injury, highlighted by a 71-yard run in the second quarter – the second-longest of his college career - that set up minnesota’s first touchdown. He finished the game with 24 carries for 148 yards and one touchdown.
5. McMillan Steps Up After Nestor Injury: Cornerback John Nestor was a surprise addition to the injury report and was ultimately inactive. Minnesota responded by moving nickel cornerback Jai’Onte McMillan to the outside, successfully containing Nebraska’s ninth-ranked passing offense.
