League: NCAAF Sport: College Sports Category: Scores & Results

Minnesota defeats Eastern Illinois 59-7 in season opener

2 sources • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 4, 2026, 3:22 AM

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

Minnesota defeats Eastern Illinois 59-7 in season opener

Summary

Minnesota opened its college football season with a 59-7 win over Eastern Illinois at Huntington Bank Stadium on Thursday. The Gophers dominated the game behind three first-half touchdowns from Darius Taylor and two punt return scores by Javon Tracy. While Minnesota successfully rotated players in the second half to minimize injury risks, the coaching staff noted areas for improvement, specifically regarding a slow offensive start and defensive lapses during the first half. Tracy became the first player in program history to record two punt return touchdowns in a single game. The Gophers move to 1-0 on the season and shift focus to their upcoming home game against Mississippi State on September 12.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Minnesota beat Eastern Illinois 59-7 in the season opener Thursday.
•Javon Tracy recorded two punt return touchdowns during the win.
•Darius Taylor scored three rushing touchdowns in the first half.
•The Gophers defense held the Panthers to 113 total yards.
•Minnesota hosts Mississippi State on September 12.

Latest Updates

3:22 AMYahoo Sports — Gophers meet goals in 59-7 blowout win over Eastern Illinois
3:20 AMYahoo Sports — Gophers take care of business against Eastern Illinois in 2026 season opener

What they're saying

"
When lower-level directional schools appear on its nonconference schedule, the Gophers’ objectives should shift drastically. In Thursday’s season opener, Minnesota, a 42-point favorite, needed to steamroll Eastern Illinois at Huntington Bank Stadium and do so with crisp execution in all three phases while suffering minimal injuries. Check, check, check. Minnesota outclassed Eastern Illinois ...
— Yahoo Sports