Gophers-Eastern Illinois preview: How to watch, key players and prediction

The Minnesota Gophers will begin their 2026 regular-season schedule on Thursday night with a matchup against the Eastern Illinois University Panthers. Minnesota is favored by 43.5 points, indicating a significant expected victory over the FCS Eastern Illinois team. The broadcast will be available on Peacock, NBCSN, and radio via KFAN FM 100.3. The Gophers' broadcast team includes Jason Benetti and Yogi Roth, while the Panthers will feature a broadcast team led by Chris Wilkerson, the Panthers' head coach.

Eastern Illinois entered its Week Zero game against Murray State as 4.5-point underdogs but emerged victorious with a 28-14 win, ending a seven-game losing streak. The Panthers finished seventh in the Ohio Valley Conference during the preseason, while Murray State was ranked last in the preseason Missouri Valley Conference. Eastern Illinois' starting quarterback, Cole LaCrue, finished against Murray State with 11 of his 18 passes completed for 101 yards and a touchdown.

The team is known for its run-first strategy, as veteran running back Charles Kellom contributed 19 carries for 171 yards and three touchdowns against Murray State.

Minnesota, with returning QB, offensive coordinator, and defensive coordinator, is expected to start strong against Eastern Illinois. The Gophers' 43.5-point spread suggests they may cover the large number easily. Considering Eastern Illinois' three consecutive losses to FBS opponents, Minnesota is likely to flex its talents early, with most starters likely to be done by the fourth quarter. The projected score is Minnesota 56, Eastern Illinois 7.