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The Minnesota Gophers start the 2026 season at home against FCS Eastern Illinois Thursday night. Minnesota returns quarterback Drake Lindsey and Darius Taylor from last year’s team that finished 8-5 with a win over New Mexico in the Rate Bowl.
They will look to lift an offense this season that ranked just 129th in the FBS in 2025 with an average of 298.2 yards per game. The Panthers won their opener 28-14 against Murray State last Thursday as Charles Kellem rushed for 171 yards and three touchdowns.
Below is a game preview, courtesy of the Associated Press:
Story
Eastern Illinois (1-0) at Minnesota (0-0), Thursday, 7 p.m.
How to watch: Peacock
Key Stats
Eastern Illinois (2025)
Overall offense: 298.3 yards per game (109th in FCS)
Passing: 164.9 yards per game (106th in F...
