Minnesota Triumphs as USC Falters in Critical B1G Matchup

© Matt Krohn-Imagn Images

In a hard fought Big Ten Conference battle, the Minnesota Golden Gophers (3-3, 1-2) edged out the No. 11 USC Trojans (3-2, 1-2) 24-17, snapping their three game losing streak. Running back Darius Taylor’s dominant performance on the ground and timely defensive stops helped Minnesota hold off a late push by USC, who struggled to regain momentum after key turnovers.

Game Summary

The Golden Gophers secured a gritty victory in a game primarily decided in the trenches in a hard fought contest that went down to the wire. Both teams leaned heavily on their running backs to drive their offenses. For the Trojans, Woody Marks powered through defenders with downhill running, amassing 134 yards on 20 carries and scoring once. Despite the Trojans’ strong ground game, the Gophers’ running attack proved even more effective. Taylor led Minnesota with an impressive 125 yards on 19 carries, adding 5 receptions for 56 yards. Although Taylor didn’t find the end zone, his consistent play on the ground and through the air kept Minnesota's offense moving.

Turning Point

The turning point of the game came just before halftime when USC’s offense, which had been moving the ball well, was disrupted by a costly fumble from running back Quinten Joyner.

Earlier drives had already been slowed by penalties, but this turnover gave Minnesota the chance to kick a field goal and tie the game. From that moment, the Trojans struggled to recapture their earlier momentum. Though they fought hard until the end, the fumble marked the beginning of their downfall.

What It Means

For the Golden Gophers, this victory puts an end to their three-game skid and provides a crucial boost of confidence as they head into their next B1G matchups. With games against a struggling UCLA (1-4, 0-3) squad and then Maryland (3-2, 0-2), Minnesota has a chance to build real momentum. If the Gophers can maintain the same physical, hard-nosed style of play that led them to outlast the Trojans, they have the potential to make a serious impact in the conference moving forward.