Darius Taylor runs for two scores and catches another, Minnesota beats Nevada 27-0

MINNEAPOLIS, MN – Darius Taylor had a standout performance with 124 rushing yards and two touchdowns, adding a receiving touchdown as Minnesota dominated Nevada 27-0 on Saturday. This victory sets the Gophers up nicely as they prepare for Big Ten play, having shut out their second consecutive opponent and allowing just one touchdown in their first three games. They had previously defeated FCS Rhode Island 48-0 after a narrow 19-17 loss to North Carolina.

Minnesota last achieved consecutive shutouts in October 1962. Under first-year defensive coordinator Corey Hetherman, the Gophers’ defense has been formidable. Taylor’s 80-yard touchdown run in the third quarter was a highlight, marking the sixth-longest rushing score in school history. He navigated through several missed tackles and cut back across the field for the final 20 yards.

Despite missing seven games last season due to injury, Taylor led the Gophers with 799 rushing yards. He missed the season opener against North Carolina due to a leg injury but had 14 carries for 64 yards in last week’s game.

Quarterback Max Brosmer contributed with 191 yards and a touchdown, completing 16 of 26 passes. The Gophers (2-1) averaged 6.66 yards per play and held a 386-172 advantage in total yards.

Nevada’s quarterback, Brendon Lewis, faced significant pressure throughout the game. He completed 15 of 23 passes for 114 yards, threw three interceptions, and was sacked four times. Lewis also struggled on the ground, rushing 10 times for minus-1 yard.

The Wolf Pack (1-3) struggled with penalties, racking up eight infractions for 89 yards, including a crucial defensive pass interference and an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty that extended a Minnesota drive. This followed a game last week where Nevada committed 14 penalties for 134 yards in a 20-17 loss to Georgia Southern.

Dragan Kesich made a 52-yard field goal for Minnesota in the first quarter, setting a new school record with his fifth career field goal of 50 yards or more, surpassing previous record holders Emmett Carpenter and Chip Lohmiller.

**Up Next**
– **Nevada:** Hosts FCS Eastern Washington next Saturday.
– **Minnesota:** Kicks off Big Ten play against Iowa at home next Saturday.