The Minnesota Golden Gophers (8-5) secured a 24-10 victory over the Virginia Tech Hokies (6-7) in the Duke’s Mayo Bowl, thanks to a dominant defensive performance.
This win marked the Gophers’ eighth consecutive bowl appearance, extending the longest active streak in college football and setting a new record for the Big Ten Conference.
The Gopher defense was the standout aspect of the game. Under the leadership of Corey Hetherman, the defense tallied nine tackles for loss, five sacks, a forced fumble, and an interception.
The defense started strong, forcing a three-and-out on Virginia Tech’s opening drive. However, following a blocked punt that led to a muffed return recovered by the Hokies at Minnesota’s 40-yard line, the defense responded immediately. Linebacker Maverick Baranowski sacked Hokies quarterback William Watson III, helping force another three-and-out.
After a missed 33-yard field goal attempt by Minnesota kicker Dragan Kesich, Virginia Tech capitalized on a breakdown in pass coverage, gaining 67 yards on a catch-and-run by wide receiver Ayden Greene. The Hokies then took a 7-0 lead with a three-yard touchdown run from backup quarterback Colin Schlee.
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Minnesota turned things around in the second quarter. The Gophers tied the game on a 10-yard halfback touchdown pass from Darius Taylor to wide receiver Elijah Spencer. The defense forced another three-and-out, and Minnesota took the lead on a 12-yard touchdown pass from Max Brosmer to Spencer. The Gophers extended their lead to 21-7 with a 28-yard touchdown run by Taylor before halftime.
Virginia Tech managed to close the gap with a 60-yard field goal by John Love as time expired, making the score 21-10 at the break.
The only points in the second half came from a 44-yard field goal by Kesich.
Virginia Tech had two opportunities in the fourth quarter to score in the red zone, but the Gopher defense held firm. Safety Kerry Brown broke up a pass on fourth down to stop the first trip, while cornerback Za’Quan Bryan intercepted a pass to halt the second.
In his final game, quarterback Max Brosmer completed 18 of 29 passes for 211 yards, one touchdown, and one interception. Taylor had 20 carries for 113 rushing yards and a touchdown, along with four receptions for 17 yards. Spencer caught six passes for 81 yards and two touchdowns. Baranowski and Devon Williams led the defense with six total tackles each.
Head coach P.J. Fleck celebrated the win with a mayo bath after the game.
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