Drake Lindsey offers plenty of reason for Gophers optimism despite early loss

The Gophers already suffered their first loss of the season in Week 2 against Mississippi State, which usually prompts a “sky is falling” reaction. Here are five reasons why you should still be optimistic about the 2026 campaign, despite an early defeat.

Stud quarterback Kamario Taylor gave Mississippi State plenty of hype heading into their matchup with the Gophers, and they certainly lived up to it. He’s now in the top 10 of betting odds to win the Heisman Trophy, and there’s certainly a scenario where the Bulldogs continue to outperform expectations.

<

Sep 12, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Mississippi State Bulldogs quarterback Kamario Taylor (1) breaks the tackle attempt of Minnesota Golden Gophers defensive back John Nestor (17) during the fourth quarter at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-Imagn Images

It’s hard to view Mississippi State as a dangerous team after totaling two SEC wins over the last three seasons combined, but it might be time to shift expectations. They have a gauntlet conference schedule, so it will be interesting to see how they look going forward, but it could be a loss that ages very well for Minnesota. If the Bulldogs finish with 8 or 9 wins, a 25-point loss at home could look a lot different.

Lost in Saturday’s disappointing loss, Lindsey broke Minnesota’s school record for most consecutive passes without an interception at 206, passing Max Brosmer’s mark. It was hard not to be impressed by his resolve in Week 2 against the Bulldogs after finishing 31 of 48 for 279 yards. His third-most yards in a start came against an SEC opponent, giving fans plenty of reason to be excited about the future of Minnesota’s offense with him under center.

<

Sep 12, 2026; Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; Minnesota Golden Gophers quarterback Drake Lindsey (5) makes a pass against the Mississippi State Bulldogs during the first quarter at Huntington Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nick Wosika-Imagn Images

Lindsey attempted 48 passes on Saturday against the Bulldogs, and his receivers looked improved. Javon Tracy, Noah Jennings and Jalen Smith all had double-digit targets, and Jennings led the way with seven catches for 88 yards, followed by Tracy with seven for 51 yards and Smith with five for 51. There is certainly room for improvement, but it’s clear that first-year wide receivers coach Isaac Fruechte has the position group pointed in the right direction, which is a significant improvement compared to years in the past.

The Gophers’ coaching staff is receiving a lot of criticism after Saturday’s performance, deservedly so. Their current situation reminds me a lot of what the vibe was around the program after the 31-14 loss to Iowa at home in 2024. They proceeded to nearly beat Michigan on the road before rattling off four straight wins.

Minnesota’s Big Ten opener at Washington is a golden opportunity to get back on track in Week 4. A win there would provide plenty of momentum, and people would quickly forget a nonconference loss to Mississippi State before hosting a shaky Michigan team on Oct. 3. There is plenty of football left.

Gophers’ running back Darius Taylor was clearly limited against Mississippi State, which is a story that has become all too familiar for the Gophers. If Taylor’s injuries linger again this season, Turner could be the player Minnesota’s backfield needs. Stud freshman Ryan Estrada is out for the season, but Turner returned to the field against Mississippi State for the first time since suffering a season-ending injury last season at Cal.

Turner led the country with 8.3 yards per carry in his final season at Marshall in 2024, and he was the Gophers’ top-ranked transfer addition last year. That season is getting further and further in the past, but if Turner is able to find the form he had that season, Minnesota’s rushing attack could vastly improve.

We are in the age of big media consolidation and content networks. But even with the proliferation of AI, nothing can beat the quality and inherent knowledge of local sports journalism. Our writing room consists of a Tommy, a Gopher, and even a Mustang. We know the Minnesota towns and the great names that played on its diamonds, courts, fields or rinks. Subscribe NOW to the new Bring Me The Sports newsletter. We would appreciate your readership and support!

This story was originally published by Bring Me The Sports on Sep 15, 2026, where it first appeared in the MN Gophers section. Add Bring Me The Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.