Gophers Take Down No. 24 Illinois And Become Bowl Eligible

MINNEAPOLIS – The Gophers defeated No. 24 Illinois 14-6 on Saturday at Huntington Bank Stadium to become bowl eligible for the first time since 2019.

Record-Breaking Defense

The Gophers defense held Illinois to just 134 total yards, their lowest output since 2014.

“Our defense was just outstanding tonight,” said Gophers head coach PJ Fleck. “They made some incredible plays and really shut down Illinois’s offense.”

Tanner Morgan Takes Control

Gophers quarterback Tanner Morgan threw for 155 yards and a touchdown. He also ran for 48 yards, including a 20-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter that sealed the victory.

“We made some big plays when we needed them,” said Morgan. “Our defense played great, and we were able to come through with the win.”

Game-Winning Drive

The Gophers took over with 1:55 left in the game and drove 75 yards for the game-winning touchdown.

“We knew we had to make a play,” said Fleck. “We had confidence in Tanner and our offense, and they delivered.”

Looking Ahead

The Gophers (6-3, 4-2 Big Ten) will face Purdue (5-4, 3-3 Big Ten) next Saturday at Ross-Ade Stadium.

“We’re excited about becoming bowl eligible,” said Fleck. “But we’re not satisfied. We have a lot of football left to play, and we’re focused on winning our next game.”