Mankato native Jalen Smith's touchdown catch in overtime lifted the Gophers to a win over New Mexico in the Rate Bowl at Chase Field.

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

New Mexico (9-3) is bowling for the first time since 2016. History: This is the first matchup between the two programs and was an unlikely pairing that first needed two Big XII Conference teams (Iowa State and Kansas State) to opt out of bowl bids.

The Gophers are aiming for their ninth consecutive bowl victory and seventh in a row under coach P.J. Fleck when they take on the Lobos in Phoenix.

Gophers coach P.J. Fleck spoke with FOX 9's Pierre Noujaim after a 20-17 overtime win over New Mexico in the Rate Bowl on Friday in Phoenix, Ariz. The Gophers finish the season 8-5, and are 7-0 in bowl games under Fleck.

Get real-time updates on Minnesota Golden Gophers vs New Mexico Lobos live coverage, minute by minute of the match, score, stream information and latest updates in Rate Bowl of 2025-26 NCAAF Regular Season with VAVEL.

College football fans suggested that the New Mexico Lobos scored a touchdown with their turquoise uniforms for the Rate Bowl against Minnesota.