New-look run game among top things to watch in Gophers’ season opener
Whether Minnesota can improve its run game will be a top story this fall.
Minnesota's Golden Gophers are set to kick off their 2026 season against Eastern Illinois on Thursday night. As overwhelming favorites with a 43.5-point spread, this game serves as a preseason exhibition for the team. The rushing attack, led by returning starter Darius Taylor and bolstered by new additions, will be closely monitored.
However, the program's rushing efficiency has been declining in recent seasons. With a marquee nonconference game against Mississippi State looming in the following week, the depth of the starters' playing time remains uncertain. The kicking situation features multiple eligible kickers, including the return of Brady Denaburg and two transfers.
The depth chart is still fluid, with quarterback Drake Lindsey replaced by Max Shikenjanski last season after just one appearance. The Gophers will also be showcasing a new tradition with their adapted "ROW" chant, inspired by the Norway national soccer team's viral World Cup chant.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
