Gophers football coach Jerry Kill says playing in cold weather doesn’t give the Gophers an advantage over Ohio State. (Pioneer Press file photo: Scott Takushi) With Ohio State players galloping on long runs into the end zone in the first quarter, it looked like a long, snowy afternoon for the Gophers. But Minnesota showed resolve with two crucial touchdowns coming off Buckeyes turnovers to stay within striking distance, 17-14, at the half. Minnesota (7-2, 4-1 Big Ten) was led by running Back David Cobb who rushed for 96 yards and two touchdowns. No. 8 ranked Ohio State (8-1, 5-0) had versatile J.T. Barrett at the helm. The conference’s highest-rated passer completed 11 of 20 for 144 yards and a touchdown. He also rushed for 168 yards and another score. The Buckeyes took a 14-0 lead as the Gophers were limited to three-and-outs on offense. Barrett took a designed quarterback keeper off tackle to the left and cutback right for an 86-yards opening score at 10:14 in the first quarter. It was the longest run ever for an Ohio State quarterback. The scamper came after the Gophers held Ohio State to a three-and-out in their first possession. On the next Buckeyes possession, Barrett connected with wide receiver Jalen Marshall for a 57-yard touchdown pass and a 14-0 lead. In two scoring plays, Ohio State racked up 143 yards…
Continue Reading: Gophers trail Buckeyes 17-14 at halftime
