Gophers Rout Eastern Illinois 59-7 as Javon Tracy Returns Two Punts for Touchdowns

The rout served as a depth check that leaves Minnesota preparing for a tougher test against Mississippi State next Saturday.

Overview

Minnesota dominated an FCS opponent in a season opener on Thursday night with a 59-7 win at Huntington Bank Stadium.
Javon Tracy returned two punts for touchdowns, becoming the first Gopher to do so in a single game and one of only four players in Big Ten history with multiple punt-return scores in one game.
Running back Darius Taylor scored three first-half touchdowns and finished as a primary offensive threat while quarterback Drake Lindsey completed 19 of 24 passes for 264 yards and one touchdown.
Coach P.J. Fleck removed most starters late in the third quarter, the team reported no major injuries, and new special-teams coordinator Daniel Da Prato saw an immediate payoff from improved return play.
With continuity at coach and coordinators but lingering questions about the run game, Minnesota will use next week’s nationally televised game against Mississippi State to test depth, kickers and upgrades to the rushing attack.