Javon Tracy returns two punts for touchdowns in Minnesota victory

Minnesota recorded one of its most productive special teams performances of the P.J. Fleck era during Thursday’s game against Eastern Illinois. Wide receiver Javon Tracy became the first player in Gophers history to return two punts for touchdowns in a single contest. The performance marked an immediate impact for new special teams coordinator Daniel Da Prato, who was hired this offseason to address long-standing inconsistencies in the unit. Kicker Daniel Jackson also contributed by converting his first career 31-yard field goal and all seven of his extra-point attempts. Fleck credited the improved unit to Da Prato’s focus on scheme, detail, and organizational structure. The Gophers had totaled only three touchdown returns across the previous nine seasons under the current coaching staff.

• 2:45 PMYahoo Sports — P.J. Fleck’s decision to hire Daniel Da Prato is already paying off