Eric Boggs 
Minnesota 17 North Carolina19
In a game filled with tension, errors, and missed opportunities, the Minnesota Gophers fell to the North Carolina Tar Heels, 19-17, in their 2024 season opener. Noah Burnette’s clutch kicking performance, including a game-winning 45-yard field goal, secured the victory for the Tar Heels, while Minnesota’s struggles and miscues played a significant role in their own downfall.
A Game of Two Halves
The first half saw Minnesota take control after a sluggish start. Both teams punted on their first two possessions, but the Gophers eventually found their rhythm. A 3rd-and-19 conversion sparked a drive that took Minnesota deep into North Carolina territory. However, a missed 27-yard field goal by Dragon Kesich marked the beginning of a series of costly mistakes.
On the following UNC possession, a strip-sack by Jai’Onte’ McMillan set Minnesota up at the 10-yard line, but a defensive holding penalty negated the turnover and allowed the Tar Heels to continue their drive, eventually scoring a touchdown. Minnesota responded well, though, with Justin Walley’s interception setting up a Marcus Major touchdown. Another quick stop by the defense allowed Max Brosmer to lead the Gophers on a 65-yard drive, resulting in a 14-7 halftime lead.
Second Half Woes
The second half was a different story. North Carolina tightened up defensively while Minnesota’s mistakes continued to pile up. The Gophers managed just 1 yard of offense in the third quarter, and penalties wiped out key plays. A Brosmer fumble on a scramble led to another North Carolina field goal, and two more defensive holding penalties kept UNC drives alive, ultimately leading to additional points.
Despite their struggles, Minnesota had two chances to win the game in the fourth quarter. Brosmer led a 63-yard drive that stalled inside the 10-yard line, resulting in a field goal. Then, with time running out, Brosmer’s deep pass to Daniel Jackson drew a pass interference penalty, and a subsequent completion to Elijah Spencer set up a potential game-winning field goal attempt. However, another holding penalty backed the Gophers up, and Kesich’s 47-yard field goal attempt sailed wide right as time expired.
Key Takeaways
- North Carolina’s Quarterback Conundrum: The Tar Heels’ passing game left much to be desired. Omarion Hampton’s 129 rushing yards kept the offense afloat, but Max Johnson’s injury and Conner Harrell’s conservative play left questions about the quarterback position. Johnson completed just 12 of 19 passes for 71 yards, and Harrell’s brief stint saw UNC go backward more than forward. North Carolina’s post-Drake Maye era began with a win, but it had little to do with their quarterback play.
- Brosmer Shows Promise: Despite the loss, Max Brosmer showed flashes of potential in his Minnesota debut. The former FCS standout completed 13 of 21 passes for 166 yards and led the Gophers on two late drives that could have won the game. His connection with Elijah Spencer and Daniel Jackson on the final drive demonstrated the accuracy and poise that Minnesota hopes will elevate their passing game this season.
- Minnesota’s Mistakes Prove Costly: The Gophers’ loss can be attributed to a litany of mistakes. Six penalties, including two critical holding calls, five sacks allowed, and a failure to manage the clock effectively in the fourth quarter all contributed to their defeat. Minnesota’s offense, which managed just 78 rushing yards on the night, failed to capitalize on opportunities, while their defense couldn’t overcome the penalties and miscues.
Looking Ahead
Minnesota must regroup quickly as they prepare for their next game against the Rhode Island Blue Hens on September 7th. The Gophers have nine days to address the issues that plagued them against North Carolina, particularly their offensive line struggles, red zone inefficiencies, and costly penalties. If they can clean up their game, they have the potential to bounce back in a big way.
For North Carolina, the win provides a positive start to the season, but significant questions remain, particularly at the quarterback position. The Tar Heels will need to find answers quickly if they hope to sustain success throughout the season. The Tar Heels return to action next Saturday as they host Charlotte.
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