Detroit Lakes, MN (KDLM) – The Minnesota Gophers kicked off their 2024 season in impressive fashion Thursday night, defeating Buffalo 23-10 behind stellar performances from their new starting quarterback and running back.
Redshirt freshman Drake Lindsey made a memorable debut under center, throwing for 290 yards and two touchdowns while completing 19 of 35 passes. The Arkansas transfer connected with Jameson Geers for a touchdown and found redshirt freshman Jalen Smith for a spectacular 60-yard scoring strike in the fourth quarter.
Running back Darius Taylor dominated on the ground, carrying 30 times for 141 yards as Minnesota controlled the line of scrimmage. The Gophers capped the victory with a methodical 16-play, 58-yard drive that consumed 9:45 of clock in the final quarter.
Defensively, new coordinator Danny Collins had his unit firing on all cylinders. The Gophers held Buffalo’s 1,000-yard rusher from last season, Al-Jay Henderson, to just 25 yards on 11 carries while pressuring quarterback Ta’Quan Roberson throughout the night.
The game featured an entertaining two-way showcase from sophomore safety Koi Perich, the preseason All-America selection who caught Lindsey’s first collegiate pass for 12 yards while also contributing on defense and special teams.
Minnesota will host Northwestern State on September 6th.
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