Smith’s Overtime Touchdown Lifts Minnesota to Rate Bowl Victory

Phoenix — Jalen Smith’s diving touchdown catch in overtime capped a gritty postseason performance as the Minnesota Golden Gophers defeated the New Mexico Lobos 20–17 in the Rate Bowl at Chase Field on Friday. Smith hauled in a 12-yard touchdown pass in the first overtime period, securing Minnesota’s ninth consecutive bowl victory and extending head coach P.J. Fleck’s bowl-winning streak to seven games. The run ties Southern California and Utah for the second-longest bowl winning streak in NCAA history, trailing only Florida State’s 11-game streak from 1985 to 1995. Minnesota (8–5) broke through late in regulation when running back Darius Taylor scored on a five-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter. New Mexico quickly answered, however, as Damon Bankston returned the ensuing kickoff 100 yards for a touchdown. A successful two-point conversion on a trick play tied the game at 14–14. After both teams traded punts, the contest moved to overtime. New Mexico (9–4) settled for a 36-yard field goal after failing to earn a first down. Minnesota responded immediately, as quarterback Drake Lindsey found Smith in the end zone on a play that was confirmed after video review.

Lindsey finished with 147 passing yards and two touchdowns, while Smith accounted for both scoring receptions. Minnesota’s defense also played a critical role, limiting New Mexico to two field goals in the first half and holding the Lobos to 124 total yards before halftime.

Despite the loss, New Mexico concluded a successful season under first-year head coach Jason Eck. The Lobos exceeded preseason expectations, going undefeated at home for the first time since 1962, defeating UCLA for their first Power Four win since 2007, and appearing in their first bowl game outside Albuquerque since 2004. Minnesota will open the 2026 season at home against Eastern Illinois on September 3, while New Mexico hosts Central Michigan on September 5.