A stunning upset unfolded on October 17, 2025, as the Minnesota Golden Gophers dominated the No. 25 Nebraska Cornhuskers, securing a decisive 24-6 victory. This game was a masterclass in defensive prowess and strategic execution.
Darius Taylor was the star of the show for Minnesota, rushing for an impressive 148 yards and a touchdown. Adding to the offensive firepower, quarterback Drake Lindsey completed 16 of 20 passes for 153 yards and a touchdown. But here's where the game truly shifted: the Golden Gophers' defense was relentless, sacking Nebraska's quarterback, Dylan Raiola, a staggering nine times, setting a new school record.
The Golden Gophers, now with a record of 5-2 overall and 3-1 in the Big Ten, have a remarkable winning streak against the Cornhuskers, with six consecutive victories. Nebraska, also with a 5-2 record but 2-2 in the conference, saw their hopes of back-to-back road wins dashed. Minnesota's coach, P.J. Fleck, continued his dominance over Nebraska, improving his record to 7-1 against them. It's worth noting that Nebraska hasn't tasted victory in Minneapolis since 2015.
Coach Fleck was understandably thrilled, stating, “Nine sacks; I love that.” He highlighted the team's record-breaking performance, emphasizing the complete defensive effort.
Raiola, despite the pressure, completed 17 of 25 passes for 177 yards. However, the Huskers struggled, being held without a touchdown for the first time since a 2016 loss to Ohio State.
The Gophers' defense, led by Anthony Smith and Karter Menz, each with 2.5 sacks, held Nebraska to a season-low 36 rushing yards. The student section's excitement led to a field storming after the game.
Nebraska's coach, Matt Rhule, reflected on the loss, noting they were “out of whack the whole day.” He also addressed rumors of his potential candidacy for the Penn State job.
Lindsey connected with Le'Meke Brockington for a 20-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter, extending Minnesota's lead. This crucial play was part of a 98-yard, 14-play drive.
A pass-interference penalty negated a Nebraska interception, which set up Taylor's 1-yard touchdown run.
At halftime, Minnesota led 7-6, thanks to a 1-yard touchdown by Lindsey. Taylor's impressive 71-yard run set up the score, and he reached a career milestone, achieving 2,000 yards in just 23 games, the third-fastest in Gophers history since 1955.
But here's where it gets controversial... Nebraska faced significant setbacks, including injuries to starting linemen. Guard Rocco Spindler was hospitalized with a broken finger, and tackle Elijah Pritchett was ejected.
Coach Rhule acknowledged the impact of the injuries, saying they hurt the team.
And this is the part most people miss... Nebraska's inconsistent line play was a significant factor, leading to a lack of a clean pocket for Raiola. Minnesota's rushing attack, ranked 114th nationally before the game, finally found its rhythm.
What do you think? Were the injuries the turning point, or was Minnesota's strategy simply superior? Share your thoughts in the comments!
Nebraska will host Northwestern on Saturday, Oct. 25. Minnesota will face Iowa next Saturday.
