3 takeaways as Minnesota Football looks legit in win over Michigan State

2 of 3

Minnesota’s Daniel Jackson catches a touchdown as Michigan State’s Ameer Speed defends during the fourth quarter on Saturday, Sept. 24, 2022, at Spartan Stadium in East Lansing.220924 Msu Minn Fb 150a /

Minnesota’s veteran players infuse the entire team with confidence

This game was the Gopher’s first game away from Huntington Bank Stadium this season. Spartan Stadium held a sold-out crowd of screaming Spartan fans. Yet the Gopher’s entire team was not fazed in the slightest.

On the offensive side of the ball, the Gophers moved freely converting 32 first downs. They controlled the pace of the game and imposed their will on the Michigan State defense.

Many were worried as to who if anyone would step up in the absence of Christ Autman-Bell. This worry was answered today as Tanner Morgan completed a pass to 10 different Gopher players. Veteran pass catchers Michael Brown-Stephens, Dylan Wright, Brevyn Spann-Ford, and Daniel Jackson combined for 15 receptions and 209 yards.

Maybe the most impressive stat of the entire game was Minnesota’s third down conversion rate. On third downs, when Spartan fans were at their loudest, Minnesota converted on 10 of 12 third-down attempts (83%).

The confidence and poise Minnesota showed today proved that they believe they can take on any opponent and are ready to take the next step.

Home/Big Ten