Overview
- The Golden Gophers defeated Akron 41-7 on Saturday to finish nonconference play 2-1 and move on to their Big Ten opener at Washington next week.
- Quarterback Drake Lindsey completed 17 of 31 passes for 204 yards, three touchdowns and one interception while true freshman Roman Voss, Noah Jennings and Jalen Smith each caught a scoring pass.
- Javon Tracy produced a game-changing all-purpose day with 155 yards and a team-leading 91 receiving yards, including a near punt return touchdown that helped swing field position.
- Minnesota adjusted without veteran running back Darius Taylor, who was ruled out pregame with a lower-body injury, and saw late rushing bursts from TJ Thomas and A.J. Turner that padded the final margin.
- Concerns remain about Minnesota’s balance and play-calling after the game, highlighted by just eight designed runs in the first half that produced 1.3 yards per carry and a need for cleaner execution before conference play.