BY: KENNY VARNER
The Minnesota Golden Gophers are coming off a solid 8-5 season, and with 10 returning starters—five on each side of the ball—they have a realistic shot at matching that win total again in 2025. The schedule sets up nicely, giving Minnesota a clear path to another bowl game. While they might not quite be a Top 25 team, this is a capable and competitive group with enough firepower to remain in the postseason conversation.
Last season’s quarterback, Max Brosmer, was a smart and efficient one-year rental, but his departure opens the door for redshirt freshman Drake Lindsey to take the reins. Lindsey, a 6’5”, 230-pound passer, has impressed in camp and reportedly absorbed a great deal from Brosmer during his redshirt year. His development could be the key to Minnesota continuing its recent success.
The Gophers took a step back in the running game last season, but there are reasons for optimism this fall. Guard Greg Johnson returns to anchor the line, and having an experienced center in Ashton Beers helps stabilize an offensive line that is big but largely unproven. Minnesota’s rushing attack should get a boost from Darius Taylor, who rushed for 986 yards and 10 touchdowns last year while adding 54 catches for 350 yards out of the backfield. The backfield also welcomes some exciting newcomers, including Cam Davis (Washington) and AJ Turner (Marshall), who rushed for 864 yards and an eye-popping 8.3 yards per carry.
The receiving corps is being rebuilt, with tight end Jameson Geers (28 catches, 290 yards, 4 TDs) leading the way. Help should come from transfers Logan Loya (UCLA) and Javon Tracy (Miami–Ohio), who will be counted on to contribute immediately to a group that lacks proven production.
On the defensive side, Minnesota returns five starters from a unit that ranked 9th nationally in scoring defense. The defensive line should be a strength, with Deven Eastern and Jordan Logan-Redding providing toughness and production up front, even if they don’t get much national recognition. The linebacker corps could be one of the best in the Big Ten, anchored by standout Maverick Baranowski in the middle and veteran Devon Williams alongside him. Oklahoma State transfer Jeff Roberson was a great pickup; he brings 58 tackles and 8.5 tackles for loss from last season.
The secondary does take a hit after losing veteran safeties Jack Henderson and Justin Walley. Still, there’s talent to work with. Safety Kerry Brown returns after notching 63 tackles, and true freshman Koi Perch might be the most exciting young defensive back in the Big Ten—he recorded five interceptions last season. Jaylen Bowden (NC Central) adds valuable depth to the unit.
While the defense looks stout once again, the offense—which struggled to run the ball consistently in 2024—needs to take a step forward. The passing game will likely need some time to find its rhythm with Lindsey under center.
Minnesota isn’t quite Top 25 caliber entering the season, but the schedule is favorable. The Gophers will be favored in six home games and close the year with a toss-up rivalry game against Wisconsin. Road games at Northwestern and Cal are both winnable. That said, trips to Ohio State and Oregon will be extremely tough, and visiting Iowa is always a grind.
If the offense fails to develop, this could be a 6-6 team. But if everything clicks—especially at quarterback and in the running game—nine wins is within reach. The most realistic outcome feels like another 7-5 campaign and a return trip to the postseason.