Champaign, IL
Nov 2, 2024
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The Minnesota Golden Gophers prevailed over Illinois 25-17 in a hard-fought contest, marking their fourth consecutive win and handing Illinois its first home defeat of the 2024 season. Minnesota seized momentum early when Maverick Baranowski's fumble recovery led to a field goal. Illinois struck back, highlighted by a 42-yard rushing touchdown from Josh McCray, keeping the contest tight at halftime.
In the second half, the Gophers capitalized on Luke Altmyer's fumble in the final minute, with Jah Joyner forcing a turnover that sealed the game. Despite a resilient touchdown drive engineered by Altmyer featuring a 21-yard touchdown strike to Zakhari Franklin, Minnesota's defense stood tall. Darius Taylor carried the offensive load with a pivotal 29-yard rushing touchdown, while kicker Dragan Kesich's reliable field-goal performance ensured the Gophers' victory.
Maverick Baranowski (Minnesota)
Minnesota's defense pounced early with Baranowski recovering a fumble from Illinois QB Luke Altmyer. This turnover near midfield set the stage for Minnesota's initial scoring drive.
Dragan Kesich (Minnesota)
Kesich's calm precision put Minnesota on the board first with a successful 20-yard field goal following their fumble recovery.
Darius Taylor (Minnesota)
Showcasing a relentless ground attack, Taylor dashed for a 29-yard touchdown, overcoming would-be tacklers to extend Minnesota's lead.
Josh McCray (Illinois)
McCray restored parity with a stunning 42-yard run, displaying burst and vision as he tied the game, swinging momentum back to the Illini.
Dragan Kesich (Minnesota)
With defensive pressure mounting, Kesich's 38-yard field goal offered Minnesota breathing room, underscoring his crucial kicking role.
Zakhari Franklin (Illinois)
Franklin's towering catch from 21 yards reduced Minnesota's lead, energizing Illinois' push for a comeback with a display of athleticism.
Jah Joyner (Minnesota)
In a defining moment, Joyner's sack stripped the ball from Altmyer, with the fumble recovery extinguishing Illinois' final rally attempts.
Danny Striggow (Minnesota)
Recovered the fumble caused by Jah Joyner's decisive sack on Illinois' last drive, ensuring Minnesota's victory.
Jameson Geers (Minnesota)
Capped a crucial drive with a 2-yard touchdown reception, a lead-changing moment for the Gophers, although the ensuing two-point attempt was missed.
Darius Taylor (Minnesota, RB)
Led Minnesota's offense with 131 rushing yards on 22 carries, creating a potent threat against the Illini defense, highlighted by a 29-yard touchdown run.
Max Brosmer (Minnesota, QB)
Completed 22 of 37 passes for 222 yards, orchestrating critical drives with precision passing, including a decisive touchdown in the fourth quarter.
Zakhari Franklin (Illinois, WR)
Secured five receptions for 71 yards and a pivotal touchdown, showcasing clutch play during Illinois' comeback attempts.
Dragan Kesich (Minnesota, K)
Delivered key field goals from 20, 38, and 45 yards, maintaining perfect accuracy and providing vital points for Minnesota.
Jah Joyner (Minnesota, DL)
Recorded a game-sealing sack-fumble in the final moments, crucially stifling Illinois' late-game push and showcasing defensive dominance.
Minnesota Golden Gophers
3
10
3
9
25
Illinois Fighting Illini
0
10
0
7
17
