- Consistent Quarterback Play
Athan Kaliakmanis didn’t have a great game, but the Gopher QB went 12-14 for 146 Yards, two touchdowns and one interception. Athan seemed to finally take that deep breath, exhale, and play his position. He just seemed calm, and while Louisiana seemed to have him a little bewildered early in the game, Athan keep steady, and made some nice passes. This is the type of game that should give him confidence, especially with the two-time defending conference champion Michigan Wolverines coming to town next weekend. And on 4th and 1, he finds Daniel Jackson for a huge 37-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter. “You live and you learn, and I’m just so happy for the response from all of us, offense, defense, and special teams. We all responded” Athan said in the post-game press conference. Good game, steady consistency is what was needed. Hopefully he is on his way.
- Defense Responded In The Second Half
After two bad games, that tough Minnesota defense decided to show up again. Shout out to the kid from Mandeville Louisiana ironically, Jack Henderson, who tied for the lead in tackles today with 7, one for a loss. Henderson, along with Maverick Baranowski, Tre’Von jones, and a big interception for Tyler Nubin, help the Gopher defense shut down the Ragin Cajuns. The Defense had a second half shut out going, but unfortunately, Louisiana’s Jacob Kibodi broke a late 52-yard touchdown run for their only second half score. Make no mistake, it will take a near perfect effort next week against Michigan, but for today the Gophers can be happy with their effort.
- Minnesota Got Northwestern Out of Their Heads
This was what we were all worried about, how would PJ’s team respond after an all-time epic loss last week to Northwestern. Questions answered, we saw better playing calling topped off by the 4th and 1 pass to Daniel Jackson that he took to the house for a touchdown. As bad as the loss last week was, you must put it behind you. Coach Flecks teams have bounced back from other bad losses, so this was nice to see. A better effort from the coaches, nice halftime adjustments which really shut down Louisiana. Next Week, it will take all of PJ’s wizardry, a couple of trick plays, and perfect execution for Minnesota to pull the upset. But hey, hope springs eternal. (W)Right??
Next Week Minnesota vs. Michigan in front of a National audience on NBC. Let’s get ready to rumble!!
Vince Wright is a GopherHole contributor and host of the Sports Done Wright Podcast.
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