New Mexico, Gophers and Jalen Smith
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Dec 26, 2025; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Minnesota Gophers wide receiver Jalen Smith (8) celebrates with teammate Logan Loya (17) after catching the game winning touchdown pass against the New Mexico Lobos during overtime of the Rate Bowl at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Minnesota Gophers pulled off a win in the Rate Bowl to make it seven straight for P.J. Fleck and it was three standouts that made the difference.
The return of Smith as well as those of quarterback Drake Lindsey and wide receiver Jalen Smith gives the Gophers a boost heading into the offseason.