Gophers running back Darius Taylor, battling injuries, struggled throughout the day, rushing 10 times for 28 yards with an 18-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. He caught two passes for minus-3 yards.
Why it Happened Minnesota’s defense didn’t pressure Kaliakmanis in the first half, and he responded by leading the Scarlet Knights to a 14-9 lead. In the second half, the Gophers dialed up the pressure on the QB and forced four consecutive punts. The Gophers offense, though, couldn’t add to its 16-14 lead.
What it Means The Gophers fell to 6-4 overall and 4-3 in the Big Ten and missed out on a chance to go into bye week with a five-game winning streak. They achieved bowl eligibility last week, and by losing to Rutgers, they missed out on a chance to potentially improve their destination.
Play of the Game Kaliakmanis hit Ian Strong for a 4-yard touchdown pass with 7:41 left in the fourth quarter, giving Rutgers the lead for good at 23-16.
Turning Point With 8:28 left in the fourth quarter, Gophers tight end Jameson Geers fumbled the ball at the Minnesota 10 after being hit by Tyreem Powell. Scarlet Knights defensive back Shaquan Loyal recovered at the 12, setting up the go-ahead touchdown.
