Eastern Michigan vs. Minnesota Short Report | Sep 9, 2023
Huntington Bank Stadium
Minneapolis, MN
Sep 9, 2023
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Game Recap
The Minnesota Golden Gophers triumphed over the Eastern Michigan Eagles in a commanding 25-6 victory at home on September 9, 2023. The game started slow with a scoreless first quarter, but the Golden Gophers took control in the second quarter, leading 10-6 at halftime. Freshman sensation Darius Taylor and quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis spearheaded the offensive assault, combining for 301 total yards and two rushing touchdowns. It was a breakout performance for Taylor, who recorded a career-high 193 rushing yards on 33 carries. 'I'm just out there trying to make plays and help my team win,' said Taylor post-game.
Eastern Michigan struggled to move the ball against Minnesota's formidable defense, managing only six points from two field goals by Jesus Gomez. The Golden Gophers' defense was relentless, with standout performances from players like Kyler Baugh, who tallied two sacks, and Justin Walley, who secured a crucial interception. Dragan Kesich was flawless on special teams, converting three field goals and two extra points. 'Our defense set the tone today,' added Minnesota head coach P.J. Fleck. The Gophers' relentless pressure culminated in a blocked punt that resulted in a safety, putting the game out of reach for the Eagles.
Key Plays:
Dragan Kesich (Minnesota Golden Gophers)
Kesich kicked a 24-yard field goal to give Minnesota the first points of the game, capping off a 10-play, 60-yard drive that consumed over five minutes of game clock.
Jesus Gomez (Eastern Michigan Eagles)
Gomez kicked a 20-yard field goal, tying the game at 3-3. This score came after Justin Jefferson recovered a critical fumble, giving Eastern Michigan prime field position.
Darius Taylor (Minnesota Golden Gophers)
Taylor rushed for a 2-yard touchdown, followed by Kesich's PAT, putting Minnesota ahead 10-3. This score was set up by a 46-yard scamper by Taylor earlier in the drive.
Jesus Gomez (Eastern Michigan Eagles)
Gomez kicked a 37-yard field goal as time expired in the first half, closing the gap to 10-6 and providing a morale boost for Eastern Michigan heading into the locker room.
Athan Kaliakmanis (Minnesota Golden Gophers)
Kaliakmanis rushed for a 1-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 20-6 after Kesich's PAT. The touchdown capped a dominant 12-play, 75-yard drive that took nearly seven minutes off the clock.
Team (Minnesota Golden Gophers)
Minnesota blocked an Eastern Michigan punt attempt, resulting in a safety that extended their lead to 22-6 and further demoralized the Eagles.
Dragan Kesich (Minnesota Golden Gophers)
Kesich kicked a 20-yard field goal, sealing the final score at 25-6. This score followed a critical interception by Justin Walley that halted any hope of an Eagles comeback.
Standout Players:
Darius Taylor (Minnesota Golden Gophers, RB)
Leading rusher with 193 yards on 33 carries, scoring one touchdown. Taylor's performance was instrumental in Minnesota's ground game dominance, averaging 5.8 yards per carry and helping the Gophers control the clock.
Athan Kaliakmanis (Minnesota Golden Gophers, QB)
Threw for 117 yards and rushed for a touchdown. Kaliakmanis demonstrated poise and versatility, guiding Minnesota to crucial scoring drives and executing a near-perfect 1-yard sneak for a touchdown.
Kyler Baugh (Minnesota Golden Gophers, DL)
Recorded two sacks, contributing significantly to Minnesota's defensive domination. Baugh's relentless pressure on the quarterback was a key factor in disrupting Eastern Michigan's offensive rhythm.
Dragan Kesich (Minnesota Golden Gophers, K)
Perfect on the day with three field goals and two extra points. Kesich's reliability in the kicking game provided vital points and maintained Minnesota's momentum throughout the contest.
Jesus Gomez (Eastern Michigan Eagles, K)
Scored all six points for his team, converting two field goals from 20 and 37 yards. Gomez's accuracy was one of the few bright spots for the Eagles on an otherwise challenging day.
Justin Jefferson (Eastern Michigan Eagles, LB)
Recovered a crucial fumble, setting up Eastern Michigan in a scoring position. Jefferson's timely play gave the Eagles a fleeting chance to shift momentum in their favor.
References:
Eastern Michigan Eagles vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers - Final Score - September 09, 2023 | FOX Sports
2023 MAC Football Week 2 Game Recap: Minnesota Golden Gophers 25, Eastern Michigan Eagles 6 - Hustle Belt
Eastern Michigan Eagles vs. Minnesota Golden Gophers Live Score and Stats - September 9, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
University of Minnesota Athletics
Team
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Eastern Michigan Eagles
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Minnesota Golden Gophers
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25
