Gophers take care of business against Eastern Illinois in 2026 season opener

The Minnesota Golden Gophers began their 2026 season with a dominant 59-7 victory over Eastern Illinois, covering a 43.5-point spread. Headlining the offense was running back Darius Taylor, who amassed 87 yards from scrimmage in the first half and found the end zone three times on 18 total touches. Javon Tracy's 87-yard punt return late in the first quarter marked the start of a turning point, as the Gophers went on to dominate the second half.

Tracy added another punt return for 69 yards in the second half, becoming the first player in Gophers' history to accomplish this feat in a single game. The Gophers' defense held firm, allowing only seven points from Eastern Illinois. Running back Pierce Walsh contributed a late touchdown, contributing to a 35-7 halftime lead. Elon transfer running back TJ Thomas fumbled deep in Eastern Illinois territory, but Daniel Jackson's first field goal of the season helped extend Minnesota's lead to 42-7.

Backup quarterback Max Shikenjanski replaced the injured Lindsey in the third quarter and added a touchdown run of his own. Second-year running back Xavier Ford rounded out the scoring with his second touchdown of the game. The Gophers' next challenge will be against Mississippi State on September 10th at 2:30 p.m. CT at Huntington Bank Stadium, which will be broadcast nationally on CBS.