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Last updated:  Sep 03, 2026 - 11:52 PM CDT

Gophers crush Eastern Illinois 59-7 in 2026 opener

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Gophers crush Eastern Illinois 59-7 in 2026 opener

The University of Minnesota football team opened its 2026 season Thursday night with a dominating 59-7 win over Eastern Illinois at Huntington Bank Stadium.

Minnesota entered the night 42.5-point favorites. They're 1-0 as they host SEC foe Mississippi State on Saturday, Sept. 12 at 2:30 p.m. at Huntington Bank Stadium.

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7 updates Coverage ended Sep 03, 2026 at 10:45 PM CDT
Sep 03, 2026 - 11:51 PM CDT
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Gophers start fast, get 2 punt return touchdowns in victory

Sep 03, 2026 - 10:28 PM CDT
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Gophers get a pair of 4th quarter scores, win 59-7

Sep 03, 2026 - 9:39 PM CDT
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Gophers lead 45-7 heading to fourth quarter

Sep 03, 2026 - 8:45 PM CDT
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Darius Taylor has 3 TDs, Gophers lead Eastern Illinois 35-7 at half

Sep 03, 2026 - 7:51 PM CDT
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Gophers' students do the 'Row Chant' before kickoff

Sep 03, 2026 - 7:33 PM CDT
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Gophers take 7-0 lead on Darius Taylor touchdown

Sep 03, 2026 - 6:58 PM CDT
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Gophers arrive to Huntington Bank Stadium, students fill seats

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