Drake Lindsay’s 3 TDs Fuel Minnesota’s Dramatic 31-28 Comeback Over Rutgers

Published

3 weeks ago

27 September, 2025

Editorial

UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, freshman quarterback Drake Lindsay threw for 324 yards and three touchdowns as the Minnesota Golden Gophers staged a stunning comeback to defeat the Rutgers Scarlet Knights 31-28 on Saturday. This urgent victory marks Minnesota’s first win in the Big Ten this season, improving their record to 3-1 overall and 1-0 in conference play.

The game took a dramatic turn as the Golden Gophers, facing a tough start and playing without their top two running backs, were down 14-0 early on. However, Lindsay’s impressive performance turned the tide, completing 31 of 41 passes and utilizing a strategic short passing game to control the clock and rally his team.

With just over six minutes remaining in the game, Minnesota trailed 28-24. Lindsay led a critical drive, completing six of seven passes for 72 yards, culminating in a 4-yard touchdown pass to Javon Tracy to reclaim the lead.

Meanwhile, former Gopher quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis, now playing for Rutgers, threw for 249 yards and two touchdowns. The Scarlet Knights, despite a standout performance from Antwan Raymond, who rushed for a career-high 161 yards and two scores, were unable to capitalize in the final moments. A crucial miscommunication on a shotgun snap cost Rutgers valuable yardage, and Dane Pizzaro’s 56-yard game-tying field goal attempt fell wide right.

This victory is pivotal for Minnesota as they prepare for a challenging matchup against Ohio State next week. The Golden Gophers are determined to maintain their momentum in the Big Ten after narrowly avoiding a home loss. Rutgers, now 3-2 and 0-2 in the conference, has faced tough losses, leading in the fourth quarter of both games.

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Minnesota’s upcoming clash on October 14, 2023 against Ohio State, while Rutgers will seek to bounce back against Washington on October 21, 2023.

Stay tuned for more updates on college football as the excitement continues to unfold!