Gophers Cap Off Season with 24-10 Win Over Virginia Tech in Duke’s Mayo Bowl
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Gophers running back Darius Taylor stole the show in Friday’s Duke’s Mayo Bowl, leading Minnesota to a 24-10 victory over Virginia Tech at Bank of America Stadium. The sophomore from Detroit showcased his versatility, throwing a 10-yard halfback option touchdown to Elijah Spencer in the second quarter, rushing for 113 yards on 20 carries, and adding a 28-yard touchdown run. Taylor also caught four passes for 17 yards, setting a new Gophers single-season record for receptions by a running back with 54, surpassing Chuck Rios’ 1994 mark.
The win also featured the signature moment of the bowl game: Gophers head coach P.J. Fleck being doused in Duke’s Mayo. After the game, Fleck embraced the tradition with enthusiasm, raising his arms in celebration as the mayonnaise coated him. “Make it a double! If they want, make it a triple,” Fleck joked during his postgame interview.
Adding to the excitement, rapper Flavor Flav made a surprise appearance, revealing himself as the mascot Tubby. Fleck shared a playful moment with the entertainer, mimicking Flav’s iconic catchphrase, “Yeahhhh, boyyy!”
Complementary Football Powers the Gophers
Minnesota’s balanced attack shone throughout the game. Quarterback Max Brosmer completed 18 of 29 passes for 211 yards and a touchdown, while wide receiver Elijah Spencer hauled in six catches for 81 yards, including two touchdowns. Backup running back Jaren Mangham contributed with 57 yards on nine carries.
Defensively, the Gophers were dominant, holding Virginia Tech to just 20 rushing yards in the first half and sacking Hokies quarterbacks five times. Linebackers Maverick Baranowski and Devon Williams anchored the effort. The defense stood firm during two critical fourth-quarter stands, including a goal-line stop punctuated by a sack from Jack Henderson and an interception by Za’Quan Bryan.
Key Plays Define the Game
- Play of the Game: In the second quarter, Le’Meke Brockington’s 35-yard reception under tight coverage set up the Gophers’ first touchdown.
- Turning Point: Taylor’s halfback option pass to Spencer shifted momentum, giving the Gophers their first score and energizing the offense.
- Key Stat: Virginia Tech managed only 20 rushing yards in the first half, averaging a mere 1.18 yards per carry.
Looking Ahead
The Gophers finished their season 8-5, extending their NCAA-best bowl winning streak to eight games, with five under Fleck. They will now turn their attention to offseason conditioning and preparation for the 2025 opener against Buffalo on August 28 at Huntington Bank Stadium.
Virginia Tech closed their season at 6-7. Despite their struggles, Hokies kicker John Love set a Duke’s Mayo Bowl record with a 60-yard field goal.
A Promising Future
Freshman quarterback Drake Lindsey showed potential during the Gophers’ second drive, completing a 15-yard pass to tight end Jameson Geers and helping move the offense into scoring position. Though the drive stalled, it provided a glimpse of the team’s developing talent.
Minnesota will aim to build on this momentum as they prepare for next season, seeking to continue their success under Fleck’s leadership.