Minnesota breezes by Eastern Illinois 59-7 in the opener behind Javon Tracy's two punt return TDs
Javon Tracy set the program record with two punts for touchdowns and Darius Taylor rushed for three first-half scores as Minnesota opened with a 59-7 romp past FCS opponent Eastern Illinois on Thursday. Drake Lindsey completed 19 of 24 passes for 264 yards and a touchdown to tight end Pierce Walsh, who posted his first career score with 6 seconds left before halftime to give the Gophers a 35-7…
Minnesota handed Eastern Illinois a 59-7 drubbing in their season opener on Thursday, thanks largely to Javon Tracy's two punt-return touchdowns and Darius Taylor's first-half rushing spree. Drake Lindsey threw for 264 yards and a touchdown, with Pierce Walsh scoring his first career TD with 6 seconds remaining in the half. Max Shikenjanski and Xavier Ford each added rushing TDs in the second half, while Daniel Jackson netted his first college field goal.
Tracy, who also had five receptions for 98 yards, fielded every punt and amassed 167 return yards, stepping into Koi Perich's shoes after his transfer to Oregon. Eastern Illinois, 1-1, suffered their worst loss of the season, following a 28-14 victory over Murray State in their previous game. The Gophers face tougher opponents next, including Mississippi State on September 12. Eastern Illinois heads to Indiana State on September 12.
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- Gophers meet goals in 59-7 blowout win over Eastern Illinois sports.yahoo.com
