Minnesota Golden Gophers

Gophers Earn Win Over Cornhuskers

2012-02-06T11:59:00.000-08:00

The Gophers men's basketball team is looking down at a tough finish to their schedule, with 5 of their last 7 games coming against ranked opponents. This means that the Gophers really needed the win over the Cornhuskers on Sunday.

Good thing they won 69-61! The Gopher outscored the Cornhuskers 16-6 to begin the second half. With more defense from the Gophers and an Austin Hollins feed to Rodney Williams, resulting in a slam dunk, gave the Gophers a 10-point lead.

With the tough finish to their schedule, the Gopher will take any momentum they can get.

Gophers Take Over No. 1

2012-02-06T11:55:00.000-08:00

The Gophers had the weekend off, but still came out on top! The WCHA leaders watched as second-place Minnesota Duluth only gained two points by splitting at Alaska Anchorage and then third-place Denver lost and tied with Colorado College.

Though the Gophers were off, they certainly can still be considered winnings. Here are the top five teams:

1. Minnesota 19-9-1, 15-5-0 WCHA

2. Minnesota Duluth 18-6-4, 12-5-3 WCHA

3. Boston University 16-8-1, 13-6-1 Hockey East

4. Union 16-6-7, 10-3-4 ECAC

5. UMass Lowell 18--7-0, 13-6-0 Hockey East

Gophers Beat Illini Second Time Around

2012-01-30T09:38:00.000-08:00

The Gophers men's basketball team made a statement in the final minutes of the Minnesota-Illinois basketball game - they are not the same team that they were in the Big Ten opener. The message was heard loud and clear by Illinois.

The Gophers showed their might by tying the score on a last-second three-point play and finishing off Illinois in overtime to grab their fourth victory in five games. The Gophers won 77-72 at Williams Arena.

Austin Hollins, with the Gophers down by three, drove to the basket, hitting the layup. The big error by Illinois came as Meyers Leonard fouled Hollins, who they hit the free throw to send the game into overtime.

Gophers Break Friday Night Curse

2012-01-30T09:28:00.000-08:00

The Minnesota Gophers broke their Friday night losing streak with a win over St. Cloud State. The win will hopefully break the 'Friday night curse' forever.

The victory expanded Minnesota's lead over the Bulldogs, who tied 4-4 with Michigan Tech, in the WCHA race to three points.

The No. 3 rated Gophers came into this home-and-home series with the Huskies 1-5 on Fridays against their past six WCHA opponents.

Gophers Hockey Tickets

2012-01-18T11:10:00.000-08:00

Check out these upcoming Gophers Hockey games. The Gophers want your support!

1/20 Gophers v Colorado College Tigers - tickets

1/27 Gophers v St. Cloud State Huskies - tickets

2/17 Gophers v Bemidji State Beavers - tickets

3/3 Gophers v Wisconsin Badgers - tickets

Upcoming Gopher Basketball Games

2012-01-16T10:59:00.000-08:00

The Gopher basketball team would love to have your support! Check out these upcoming games:

1/22 Gophers v Northwestern Wildcats - tickets

1/28 Gophers v Illinois Fighting Illini - tickets

2/9 Gophers v Wisconsin Badgers - tickets

2/14 Gophers v Ohio State Buckeyes - tickets

Some of the games I listed are the most popular games of the year. Don't miss out, get your tickets early. Gopher basketball is hot right now. See you there!

Mark Alt is a Hottie

2012-01-12T13:19:00.000-08:00

Checking out the roster of the University of Minnesota Gophers hockey team, I stumbled upon Mark Alt. Let me tell you, he is McYummy. At 6'3" and just over 200lbs, he is my ideal . Plus... a hometown boy! I like loyalty in a man.

Check out Mark Alt at the next Gopher hockey game!

Gophers Basketball

2012-01-09T13:12:00.000-08:00

Earlier this year I gave you some of the top selling Gopher games. Here is an updated list for the upcoming games!

2/9 Gophers v Wisconsin
2/14 Gophers v Ohio
3/3 Gophers v Nebraska

If you want to go to these games (like I do) you should get your tickets quickly because I'm sure they will either skyrocket in price or sell out!

Hot Gopher Hockey Games

2012-01-04T12:59:00.000-08:00

Hot upcoming Gopher hockey games:

1/7 Notre Dame
1/28 St. Cloud State
2/17 Bemidji State
2/18 Bemidji State
3/2 Wisconsin
3/3 Wisconsin

Check those games out at Mariucci Arena to get the boldest flavor of Gopher hockey!

New Gopher Football Uniforms

2012-01-02T12:48:00.000-08:00

No matter how the Gophers football team performs next year, at least they will look good doing it. The Gophers football team will be unveiling their snazzy, newly-designed Nike gear at an event at TCF Bank Stadium in mid-Janary.

The Gophers have released a photo of their helmets, but not the uniforms. The new helmets feature a textured maroon finish, the Gophers' traditional block M helmet decal, black facemasks, black chinstraps, a block M above the facemask, each player's uniform number on the back of the helmet and the traditional Minnesota cheer "Ski-U-Mah" on the back of the helmet.

Hudson Fasching Commits to Gophers

2011-12-29T12:39:00.000-08:00

Recently Hudson Fasching tweeted the words Gophers coach Don Lucia wanted: "Committed to the Minnesota Golden Gophers."

Fasching, 16, plays for the under-17 U.S. national team in Ann Arbor, Michigan. He is 6-3, 190 and was a highly coveted forward.

Fasching's team will represent the U.S. in the World under-17 Hockey Challenge opening Thursday and running through January 4. The U.S. team will play the Czechs in its first game.

Fasching is expected to be a high draft pick in the 2013 NHL draft.

Minnesota Golden Gophers Hot Basketball Games

2011-12-27T12:31:00.000-08:00

Here are some of my best guesses for top selling Gopher Basketball games:

1/4 Gophers v Iowa
2/9 Gophers v Wisconsin
2/14 Gophers v Ohio
3/3 Gophers v Nebraska

If you want to go to these games (like I do) you should get your tickets quickly because I'm sure they will either skyrocket in price or sell out!

Gophers Hockey Fight to the Finish

2011-12-22T11:26:00.000-08:00

Things really heated up near the end of Saturday's Minnesota-Michigan Tech game. The Gophers were comfortably ahead, 6-2, near the end of the game. Players and coaches were involved when Seth Helgeson (Minnesota) and Carl Nielsen (Michigan Tech) went at it in front of the Gopher's bench.

Both players' helmets were ripped off, and Nielson got many punches in - a major no-no in college hockey. Both players were sent off the ice with penalties and the teams continued to jaw at each other.

The coaches became involved when Tech assistant coach Bill Muckalt walked toward the Minnesota bench and began gesturing at the coaches.

Minnesota went on to win.

Gophers, 10-1, Remain Unranked in Top 25 Poll

2011-12-13T11:20:00.001-08:00

The Minnesota Gophers remain unranked in the Associated Press Top 25, though the ranking does have a new No. 1.

The Syracuse Orangeman, 10-0, moved up from No. 3 and took over the Alpha position after the Kentucky Wildcats and Ohio State Buckeyes lost.

In the meantime, the Golden Gophers have won four straight since Trevor Mbakwe, the Gophers star, was lost for the season with a torn ACL. Minnesota is 10-1 overall, but failed to receive even a single vote in either the AP or ESPN/USA Today top 25 polls. In all, 97 voters are polled between the two polls.

Gopher Hockey Sweeps MSU

2011-12-08T12:12:00.000-08:00

When the glass shattered behind the Gopher net during pre-game warm ups and then Minnesota moved the net to the corner to continue their prep, it seemed as though something was off at Mariucci Arena. Later in the game Travis Boyd lost the blade off his skate after a collision. The entire game was plagued by questionable calls.

Yet, the Gopher hockey team managed to complete the weekend series sweep of Minnesota State, with a 3-2 win at Mariucci Arena.

The sweep was very important because it keeps the No. 5 ranked Gophers in first place in the WCHA, standing atop the league with 18 points, one point ahead of the surging Minnesota Duluth Bulldogs, currently ranked No. 4 in the nation.

Gophers Hold Three Game Win Streak

2011-12-08T12:06:00.000-08:00

With only three games to go before the start of the Big Ten season, Minnesota has already had to endure the loss of Trevor Mbakwe, ankle injuries to Ralph Sampson III and Andre Hollins, and inconsistent play from just about every other 'regular'.

The nonconference season has been full of inferior opponents and the Gophers sit at 9-1. Having Sampson back and Rodney Williams as Mbakwe's replacement, the Gophers seem to be headed for a strong season, carrying a three-game winning streak into Saturday's game against St. Peter's. The Peacocks have yet to win a road game this season. The Gophers are undefeated at Williams Arena (7-0).

Mbakwe Out with ACL, Gophers Win

2011-12-01T09:42:00.000-08:00

Some fans, myself included, were a bit nervous as the Gophers headed into the game against Virginia Tech with a makeshift roster. The emotionally drained Minnesota Gophers were expected to crumble. They did anything but.

The Gophers were fueled by players that hadn't seen a starting spot all season, some of which had remained entirely in the shadows until now. However, those same players were able to overcome a late three-point barrage from Virginia Tech and snuck past the Hokies in a big 58-55 victory in the Big Ten/ACC Challenge on Wednesday.

With Trevor Mbakwe out for the season, the Gophers will continue to need emotional showings like the V Tech game. Mbakwe is out with a torn ACL.

Longtime Underdogs Come to Town

2011-12-01T09:24:00.000-08:00

The Minnesota State Mavericks, longtime underdogs in the hockey rivalry, will come to town to play the Gophers. Though the Mavericks have always come in as the underdogs, they have, as of late, left accomplishing the Cinderella story.

Since January 2009, the Mavericks are 5-1-0 against Minnesota. Before that time, the Gophers held a stunning 28-3-6 record against their south central Minnesota rivals.

Will this weekend's matchup be in the bag for the Gophers? Clearly we shouldn't assume so much.

In the five wins since '09, the Mavericks have outscored Minnesota a whopping 17-7, although their two most recent victories held a lesser margin of only one goal.

I look for the Gophers to make a rebound in the Mavericks Gophers series this weekend. The Gophers are atop the WCHA standings with an 8-2-0 record and facing a Mavericks team that is tied for 11th place at 2-7-1. It might not be easy, but it will be a series W.

Gophers Hockey Looks Strong, Future Schedule

2011-11-22T11:00:00.000-08:00

The St. Cloud State team deserves a bit of credit for upsetting the No. 1 rates Gophers, 4-3, on Friday. Lucia gave St. Cloud State some props as he highlighted the fact that the Huskies had not lost at their home this year, sitting at 3-0-2.

The Gophers won the second game 5-0 and sit at 11-3 overall.

In December, the Gophers will play six home games. January brings four home games, three road games. In February, the Gophers will have two home games and twice as many road games. March holds only two home games, for a total of 14 home games and seven road games.

Minnesota Picks up Win Over MSM

2011-11-22T10:54:00.000-08:00

The Minnesota Gophers have had some close outcomes in their past three games, but the Gophers finally picked up a lopsided 85-56 win Monday over Mount St. Mary's. The win did quite a few things for the Gophers squad.

It gave Minnesota's bench players a chance to get in some extra minutes on the court as well as giving the Gophers a small boost of confidence as they head into the Old Spice Classic in Orlando, later this week.

The Gophers' first game of the upcoming tournament in Thanksgiving Day against DePaul. The squad will head to Orlando sitting at a perfect 4-0.

Gopher Football Travels to Northwestern

2011-11-17T13:35:00.001-08:00

The Gophers can beat Northwestern, right?

Northwestern is coming off three straight wins with Ws over Indiana, Rice and Nebraska. Whoa... not so fast. The Huskers? Yes. Recall that Nebraska beat Minnesota 100-0. Well... the Wildcats beat the Huskers in Lincoln.

Still. The Gophers should win, right?

Trevor Mbakwe Exploding

2011-11-17T13:28:00.000-08:00

Six NBA (6!) teams have already come in to watch Minnesota's Trevor Mbakwe. Mbakwe is seen as a player that could lead the U of M to a Cinderella-type story in the Big Ten to finish in the top four.

Mbakwe has only missed three shots in two games and leads the Gophers with 17 points and 10 rebounds a game.

I will obviously keep and eye on the big guy and keep you all posted! Congrats to Mbakwe for his outstanding performance so far - keep it up!

Minnesota Gophers 72, Augustana Vikings 60

2011-11-10T11:57:00.000-08:00

The Minnesota Gophers picked up a win in an exhibition game against the Augustana Vikings. The Vikings gave the Gophers almost more than they could handle, led by Drae Murray and Cody Schilling.

Schilling graduated from Elsworth, Minnesota in 2008 and is Minnesota's all-time leading high school scorer.

Gopher guard Austin Hollins' spirited play to open the second propelled the Gophers to a 15-2 run. Junior forward Rodney Williams and senior forward Trevor Mbakwe carried the Gophers to the finish line.

Minnesota Gophers and Wisconsin Badgers Fight over Axe

2011-11-10T11:37:00.000-08:00

The Minnesota Gophers haven't won Paul Bunyan's Axe since 2003. Jerry Kill, I'm sure, realizes the significance of the battle for the Axe. Kill has faced Wisconsin while coaching at Northern Illinois, but this will be the first meeting of the borders for Kill as a Gopher.

Minnesota has four trophy games against Big Ten foes, and the Gopher won one of them two weeks ago when they beat Iowa. The Gophers were able to keep Floyd of Rosedale in that game.

Michigan beat the Gophers earlier this year to lay claim to the Little Brown Jug - which has been out of Minnesota since 2005. Minnesota and Penn State also battle over a trophy, the Governor's Victory Bell. The Nittany lions hold an 8-4 lead in the Battle for the Bell.

Minnesota Gophers Keep Floyd of Rosedale

2011-11-03T12:52:00.000-07:00

It's not surprising the Gopher football team isn't ranked as we head into Week 10. They are just 2-6 on the season and have been pounded hard in most of their games. The 21 points they gave up in the victory over the Hawkeyes was the lowest amount since their opening loss to Southern Cal, who scored just 19 points.

The Gophers won't be ranked, but at least they get to keep Floyd of Rosedale for another year. Also, it seems that Jerry Kill is the right man to get this team out of transition and back on track.

TCF Tailgating Pass

2011-11-03T12:46:00.000-07:00

I have never been to a Gopher football game before, not even at the new TCF Bank stadium, but I have, as of this past weekend, gone tailgating in the Victory lot outside of the Bank.

Let me tell you, it was tons of fun. My friends and I rolled into the lot around 10:30am and pulled into a spot somewhere in the middle, unloaded our car and cracked a cold one. Eventually we branched out and met some Gopher and Hawkeyes fans, playing a few tailgating games here and there. It was a ton of fun.

I 100% recommend getting a parking pass if you are (or aren't!) heading to a Gopher game in the future. We were so close to TCF and the atmosphere is what you want on gameday. Seriously... get yourself a pass.

Gophers to Announce Tubby Smith Deal

2011-10-25T11:12:00.000-07:00

Now that Jerry Kill has signed his contract of seven years, it can be expected that Gopher fans will soon hear about a Tubby Smith / Gophers contract next.

Smith is signed through the 2013-14 season for $1.8 million annually. There has been word that the deal between Smith and the Gophers is basically completed, but that the illness of Smith's lawyer held back the announcement.

Kill will receive $1.2 million a year.

Gopher Basketball is Here!

2011-10-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

With the NBA season on hold, many people aren't thinking 'basketball' yet. This is wrong.

What about college hoops?! Exhibition games are here and there are deals to be had! The place I get my tickets, Ticket King, has Gopher basketball tickets for cheap - for some games more than half off!

Sure, it is still football season, but why not catch all the Gopher action you can? Get your Gopher basketball tickets because people realize its basketball season!

Jerry Kill Wants Noise

2011-10-20T11:13:00.000-07:00

Jerry Kill is asking Gopher fans to pump up the volume this Saturday against the Nebraska Cornhuskers at the Bank.

He said, "Nebraska goes to the line of scrimmage, and (quarterback Taylor) Martinez calls evey play" from there. The QB uses cues from the defense to call a play. If the stadium is filled with crowd noise on every Nebraska snap, Martinez may not be able to make a check.

TCF isn't know as a loud stadium, but Kill is asking fans to make it happen this Saturday. Let's help 'em out, shall we?

Don Lucia Receives Extension

2011-10-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

Don Lucia, the men's hockey coach for the Golden Gophers, was granted a three-year extension. The extension will keep the 13-year Gophers coach in Minnesota through the 2014-15 season.

Last spring, Joel Maturi (athletic director) told Lucia that he wanted him to remain with the school and restore a championship atmosphere in the program.

Looks as though we've accomplished the former. Could the Gophers be on their way to the latter?

The Gophers are 4-0-0 and off to a positive start after sweeping a two-game series last weekend at Minnesota-Duluth, the defending national champion.

Minnesota at Minnesota Duluth

2011-10-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

You can't deny how great the Gopher hockey defense has looked this year... on the ice or on paper. They haven't allowed a goal yet!

Few rivalries are more storied or speckled with glory than the competitive rivalry between Minnesota and Minnesota Duluth. The Gophers lead the all-time series with a 129-72-15 record, but the Bulldogs have made a stunning comeback, winning six of the last 10 meetings.

The teams played four really fantastic and close games last season and split the season series 1-1-2.

Minnesota will be heading to Duluth to play the national champion this weekend to begin WCHA play. Since the Gophers won back-to-back national championships in 2002 and 2003, they have played 12 games against the defending national champions. Minnesota is 9-3-1 in those games.

Minnesota Has Bye Week, Then Cornhuskers

2011-10-13T10:09:00.000-07:00

Well thank goodness the Gophers have a bye this week. We are sitting at 1-5 and will be hosting the 5-1 Nebraska a week from Saturday, who also have a bye this week.

This season has gone terribly and the Gophers could use a break. Don't get me wrong, I think the Gophers are on their way to turning things around and will, in a couple of years, be a football team that can break into contention, but that this is a rebuilding stretch. Coach Jerry Kill knows what he is doing; it just takes time to implement drastic changes.

A suggestion I have would be to work in those lower classmen more. The upper classmen are not getting it done, whether they are afraid or just lacking the talent, its time to get a fresh pair of legs in there. Sorry boys, it's true.

What are your suggestions? Or as Yoda would say, 'what suggestions have you?'

Minnesota Gophers Purdue Boilermakers

2011-10-06T11:09:00.000-07:00

The Gophers hit the road and head to West Lafayette, Indiana this weekend to battle the Purdue Boilermakers (2-2). The Gophers will attempt to redeem themselves after a 58-0 steamrolling by Michigan last week.

Minnesota is 1-4 this year and looked completely outmatched in its first Big Ten game under head coach Jerry Kill.

The Gophers played at Purdue last season and were defeated 28-17 in Tim Brewster's final game before he was dismissed.

Purdue has yet to play a Big Ten game this year, but sits 2-2 on the season. They were beat last week 38-10 by Notre Dame.

Coach Kill Returns to Gophers Practice

2011-09-29T09:22:00.000-07:00

Coach Kill is back!

After four days of testing at May clinic, Coach Kill is back on the field working with the Gophers again with a more effective medication.

Kill's seizures continued on a regular basis until he spent the four days at Mayo, under the supervision of a branch of doctors who rank with the best epilepsy experts in the world.

The first practice following Kill's returned was closed to all media, despite the normal protocol of having the first 20 minutes open. Apparently Kill was as upset about the Minnesota loss to NDSU as Gopher fans were. Kill gave the team a piece of his mind as well as sitting down with the seniors and urging them to maintain perseverance.

We will see how effective Kill's return to the home base is when the Gophers play at Michigan this weekend.

North Dakota State Bison Know How to Party

2011-09-22T10:09:00.000-07:00

With Coach Kill back on the field after a short stint in the hospital following a seizure on the field at TCF Bank, the Gophers are looking to pick up another win at home this weekend against North Dakota.

North Dakota comes to town this weekend and apparently there could be as many as 20,000 North Dakota State fans coming with the team. Holy smokes. There have been more than 1,000 nights at five downtown hotels.

On Friday night, Bison fans will gather at the Depot in downtown, where dueling pianos will take requests. On Saturday morning, those same fans will head to the State Fairgrounds for a massive midday tailgating party.

I don't know who these fans think they are, but I like them a lot. They know how to party.

Let's get our act together Gopher fans.

Kris Humphries, Ex-Gopher

2011-09-22T09:45:00.000-07:00

The newly married Kris Humphries has received a lot of press lately... not all of it good.

Turns out the former University of Minnesota star has a long history of bad first impressions dating back to his recruitment process during his senior year in high school. On his official visit to Kansas, as a prospective Jayhawk basketball player, Humphries did anything but impress with his off the court social talents.

In an excerpt from "Beyond the Phog: Untold Stories from Kansas Basketball's Most Dominant Decade," former guard Keith Longford expands on why Humphries failed to become a Jayhawk.

"Kris Humpries came on a visit and tried to commit. He really wanted to come here. But no one on the team liked Kris Humphies. He was arrogant. He told everyone he was going to come in and be the leading scorer as a freshman and that we'd all have to take a backseat to him. We were trying to be respectful and not say anything. But he was an absolute jerk. It was tough, because Roy was really excited about his. Kris Humphries was a big deal. He was a one-and-done or a two-and-done kind of player. Roy wanted him to commit on his visit. But we told him, "Coach, you can't bring this guy in. You can't do it." You'd figure Roy would say something like, "Let's work on him," or "Let's give him another chance." Instead he told Humphries, "Sorry, but can't come.""

After being turned down by Kansas, Humphries eventually chose the powerhouse Duke, but changed his mind and came to Minnesota instead.

Unlike Roy Williams, the ex-Minnesota coach (Humphries coach) hold positive feelings for his former player. Dan Monson was even invited to the Kardashian-Humphries wedding. Bliss.

Ok. Who cares? I just lost a million brain cells.

Minnesota Gopher Football Games

2011-09-15T10:24:00.000-07:00

Head coach Jerry Kill has been increasing efforts to get U of M students to Minnesota Gopher home games.

He has passed out free tickets around campus, allowed for students to ling up in the corridor and cheer on the Gopher Men as they storm the field and has campaigned to close off a street for student tailgating four hours before the game.

Let's help the guy out? Get your butts to some Gopher football games! Heading into the weekend, the Gophers are picked as the favorites. Don't miss your shot to catch the Gophers' first win of the year! See ya at TCF!

Minnesota Gophers Picked As Favorite Heading into Saturday

2011-09-15T10:13:00.000-07:00

The Minnesota Gophers are heading in to the weekend as the favorite. I'm not lying.

After a 0-2 start, losing to USC on the road and at home to New Mexico State in a game where Coach Kill was taken to the hospital for seizing, the Gophers are heading into their third game as the outcome favorite.

Miami (OH) has only played one game and sit at 0-1, but it their first game was against Mizzou. The Gophers are heading in to Saturday favored by a wide margin (for the Gophers at least) over Miami.

What is going on?

Miami is a solid team with a good coach that is out of Michigan State and could easily win Saturday's game IF the Gophers don't come out and play a strong four quarters. This weekend the Gophers really need to play tough all game to pull out a win at TCF Bank.

Gophers to Use Max Shortell and Marqueis Gray

2011-09-05T22:16:00.000-07:00

The Minnesota Gophers started Marqueis Gray against USC, but it was true freshman Max Shortell who brought the team within striking distance on Saturday. Gray got injured in the 4th quarter and was treated and told he could go back in the game, but head coach Jerry Kill elected to keep the true freshman in the game. Shortell looked pretty mobile for being 6-6 and he looked very comfortable in the pocket. He threw an interception that ended the game, but he looks like a confident signal caller who has a ton of ability. It'll be interesting to see how Kill uses the two quarterbacks during the season going forward.

Minnesota Golden Gophers Lose to USC

2011-09-05T22:12:00.000-07:00

The Gophers lost to the USC Trojans in the Colliseum 19-17 last Saturday on ABC. They honestly looked like a competitive football team out there and that's what made that game so weird for me. I can't remember the last time I watched a Gopher football team where the team looked so competitive. This team is going to win some Big Ten games and they definitely won't quit on Jerry Kill this year. I'm really excited to see what kind of team he has in 2-3 years.

Golden Gopher Basketball Non Conference Schedule Announced

2011-08-16T11:00:00.001-07:00

The Golden Gopher's basketball team recently announced it's non conference schedule for the upcoming season. It's lacking the big time opponent that Tubby Smith annually schedules, but that should be okay for this young team. Here's the entire non conference schedule.

Nov. 1 -- Bemidji State (exhibition);
Nov. 7 -- Augustana (exhibition);
Nov. 11 -- Bucknell;
Nov. 14 -- North Dakota State or South Dakota State;
Nov. 17 -- Fairfield;
Nov. 21 -- Mount St. Mary's;
Nov. 24-27 -- Old Spice Classic (Orlando, Fla.; opening game vs. DePaul followed by Texas Tech or Indiana State);
Nov. 30 -- Virginia Tech;
Dec. 3 -- USC;
Dec. 6 -- Appalachian State;
Dec. 10 -- St. Peters;
Dec. 13 -- Central Michigan;
Dec. 22 -- North Dakota State or South Dakota State.

Gopher Volleyball Team Ranked 12th in Coaches Poll

2011-08-16T10:43:00.000-07:00

The Coaches poll for college volleyball was released earlier this week and the Gophers are ranked 12th to start the season! Can't wait to watch them win it all and hoist the National Title trophy! Here's the poll in its entirety from the American Volleyball Coaches Association's website.

1	Penn State (54)	1486	32-5	1
2	Southern California (5)	1424	29-5	3
3	California (1)	1354	30-4	2
4	Texas	1313	27-6	4
5	Nebraska	1221	29-3	7
6	Stanford	1150	27-4	5
7	Washington	1112	24-9	6
8	Illinois	1066	24-9	9
9	Florida	1031	29-2	8
10	Hawai'i	976	29-3	13
11	UCLA	903	22-9	12
12	Minnesota	810	26-9	10
13	Purdue	739	24-11	11
14	Northern Iowa	619	30-3	14
15	Colorado State	533	26-5	16
16	Oklahoma	485	23-11	21
17	Duke	465	27-7	18
18	Iowa State	430	20-9	25
19	Dayton	334	28-4	15
20	San Diego	315	24-6	17
21	Ohio State	256	24-12	19
22	Long Beach State	234	25-8	NR
23	Tulsa	193	31-3	20
T-24	Michigan	170	23-10	NR
T-24	Tennessee	170	25-7	24

Gophers Attempting to Rebuild Pass Rush

2011-08-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

The Minnesota Golden Gopher team had pretty much no pass rush this past season. They recorded only 9 sacks, which ranks for the worst in the nation among FBS teams. New defensive coordinator Travis Claeys has made it one of his top priorities to get that sack total way up next season. It will be really interesting to see how he does that exactly.

The team returns three starters from the defensive line, but Anthony Jacobs led the starters who are back in sacks with only 2 in 2010. Here's how returning linebacker Mike Rallis sees it all playing out:

"The main thing is, this staff isn't going to pigeon-hole guys into one thing. They're going to mix it up, put different guys in position to make plays," said Rallis, who has been doing speed work this summer in preparation. "If everyone can blitz, the offense doesn't know who's coming."

I'm really interested to see how this works. If Claeys can get that defensive line to generate any pressure on the quarterback it will say a ton about Jerry Kill's coaching staff because this group didn't do anything last year.

Jerry Kill Brings New Attitude to Gopher Practices

2011-08-09T09:56:00.000-07:00

I was reading an article in the Startribune the other day, and I saw something really interesting about the way new head coach Jerry Kill runs his practices. He described the style of his practices as "controlled chaos." Although that is an oxy moron, I like that Kill has the team practicing with urgency and at a fast pace.

The team has three different huddles of offense and defense huddle before each play. They have three little games going and the practices go at a never ending pace. Here's why Kill says he believes in the system:

"You learn a lot more by doing something than by standing and watching," Kill said. "We'll get everyone moving, then look at the film later."

It's a good thing they are moving at a quick pace, because these players will need to have learned a whole lot by the time they play at the colliseum against USC September 3rd.

Golden Gopher Football Team Looks Stronger

2011-08-09T09:21:00.000-07:00

Golden Gopher assistant Eric Klein oversees the football team's strength and conditioning program. He has been so successful with his program over the years while he was an assistant with Jerry Kill that the new Gopher head coach calls Eric Klein "the reason for my success."

It will be interesting to see how much bigger and stronger these players are this year. Starting quarterback Marqueis Gray said that he weighs 245 pounds when he played at 225 pounds last season.

It's reasonable to believe that Klein will have a much easier time getting even better results from the gopher athletes than he did with the Northern Illinois players because the Gophers have bigger and stronger athletes to begin with, who have a lot more potential.

Trevor Mbakwe Bounds Toward Team USA

2011-08-02T07:10:00.000-07:00

Trevor Mbakwe, after a controversial year off the court, has maintained his talent on the court as one of the best players in the Big Ten and the best player on the Gophers basketball squad. Mbakwe is now continuing his legacy as one of the 14 finalists in the competition to make the 12-man Team USA roster for the 2011 World University Games that will take place in China.

Under Tubby Smith, Mbakwe's averages were all on Big Ten leaderboards with 13.9 points per game, 10.5 rebounds per game, 1.5 blocks per game and a .582 field goal percentage.

If Mbakwe can make the Team USA roster, he will continue his progression towards an elite player in the country.

Mbakwe is one of two players on the potential roster that is from the Big Ten conference.

Gopher QB Adam Weber Signs with Broncos

2011-08-01T12:13:00.000-07:00

The Denver Broncos picked up Minnesota Gophers quarterback Adam Weber as an undrafted rookie free agent on Tuesday morning.

Weber was a four-year starter for the Gophers from 2007 through 2010. Weber completed 57% of his passes and had a 72:51 touchdown-to-interception rate.

Weber will be greeted by current Broncos wide receiver and former Gopher, Eric Decker.

Former Golden Gopher John Hoese Signs with Green Bay Packers

2011-07-28T10:51:00.000-07:00

Former Golden Gopher running back John Hoese has finally signed an NFL contract with the defending Super Bowl Champion Green Bay Packers. Hoese was not drafted in April's draft so he had to wait for the NFL lockout to end in order to sign with a team.

Hoese walked on to the Gopher football team as a safety. He was converted to running back during the 2008 off season. He went on to start 7 games last season as the starting full back for the Gophers. What a guy.

Good luck to you in the NFL, John and go Gophers!

Golden Gopher Football Team Projected to Finish Last in Big Ten

2011-07-27T11:16:00.000-07:00

The Minnesota Gophers were overwhelmingly chosen to finish last in the Legends division. 23 of the 24 members of the media who voted on it believed the Gophers would finish dead last in the division next year.

Nebraska and Wisconsin were chosen as the heavy favorites to win the first ever Big Ten Championship game. Nebraska received 12 first place votes while Wisconsin received 11 first place votes. Michigan State received one.

I've got a feeling the Gophers won't finish dead last this season. Jerry Kill is such an established coach who can get the most out of these players. Tim Brewster brought in a lot of talented players, but he also didn't discipline them enough with their style of play. I can see Kill transforming some of these players and getting them to play football the right way.

Adam Weber Signs with Denver Broncos, Reuinites with Eric Decker

2011-07-26T13:13:00.000-07:00

Former Golden Gopher quarterback Adam Weber was unable to sign with an NFL team for five months, but made a quick decision Tuesday morning. This morning, at 9 am, Adam Weber signed with the Denver Broncos. Here's what Weber had to say about signing with the Broncos:

"It's really crazy. I had a few good options, and I had to look at them really quickly and make a decision so I can get to work," Weber said. "Teams have different motivations that you have to figure out -- like some are just looking for an extra arm for camp -- but it wasn't hard. When I looked at the Broncos, it was kind of a no-brainer."

Weber started every single game during his four years as a Gopher. He performed admirably in his first two seasons, but struggled mightily through the last two seasons. A lot of that success in the beginning of his career had to do with Eric Decker, so hopefully he can rediscover what made him great by reuniting with Decker.

Tyus Jones Impreses at Peach Jam Tournament

2011-07-21T12:49:00.000-07:00

With tons of college coaches in attendance, Tyus Jones had an unbelievable performance at the Peach Jam Day 3.

Jones scored 31 points on 13-19 shooting. This was huge for Jones. Duke coach Mike Kryzeski and Syracuse coach Jim Boehim were in attendance. Duke is said to be extremely interested in Jones. He solidified his status as the top point guard in the class of 2014 with his performance.

Tubby Smith, you better start recruiting this guy like never before. He is going to be a stud. If you don't get him to commit soon, he is so going to go out of state and play for a powerhouse like Duke. Hopefully the Gophers can sign him.

U2 Playing at TCF Bank Stadium

2011-07-21T12:19:00.000-07:00

U2 is playing in front of 58,000 at TCF bank stadium this saturday. Wow, that is going to be nuts! This is the first big outdoor concert in the Twin Cities in 33 years. They usually have these types of big concerts at the Metrodome.

TCF Bank Stadium probably won't see more than one big concert a year. They have to book talent that can fill that entire stadium. Luckily they found U2, who is clearly able to do that. U2's 360 tour is a stadium only show that costs 85,000 to produce. When it's all said and done, the tour will have made 717 million dollars.

That's so cool.

In-State Players Take a Liking to Jerry Kill

2011-07-20T11:25:00.000-07:00

Minnesota Golden Gophers head coach Jerry Kill has done an unbelievable job keeping in-state talent in Minnesota. Four in-state seniors to be have already committed to play for the Gophers, including Phillip Nelson, who as a Sophomore at Mankato West said this to his father "There's no way I'm going to be a Gopher. "Ruled them out right away."

Jerry Kill is putting together a really nice recruiting class. He has gotten some of the state's top in state talent to stay home early on in the recruiting process. If he can keep his players away from Wisconsin, Iowa, and Ohio State, then we could be watching the beginning of a very good era of Golden Gopher football. Keep bringing in those recruits Jerry and go Gophers!

New Power Conference in Hockey Gets Name

2011-07-14T08:58:00.000-07:00

The new super conference in College Hockey has a name, finally: National Collegiate Hockey Conference. The new conference consists of Miami (Oh), Denver, Colorado College, Nebraska Omaha, North Dakota, and Minnesota Duluth. All six teams run highly successful programs that have won a combined 17 National Championships. These teams all have very successful programs and want to get a lot of national exposure.

Don't worry Gopher fans, the Gophs are still the Yankees of college Hockey. The Big Ten is still a really good hockey conference with power teams such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan. I wouldn't be too worried about the Gophers having any trouble in this conference.

Golden Gopher Basketball Target Loves Tubby Smith

2011-07-14T08:46:00.001-07:00

Minnesota's elite AAU basketball team played Iowa's elite AAU basketball team yesterday. It was a really good chance for Tubby Smith to watch one of the top Gopher targets in the class of 2012 in Iowa's Adam Woodbury. Woodbury is a 7-1 prospect who scored 9 points and grabbed 8 boards in the 69-64 win over Minnesota's Howard Pulley. Highly touted Apple Valley's Tyus Jones is on the Howard Pulley team. Here's what Woodbury had to say regarding Minnesota:

"Tubby's a great guy. I have a lot of respect for him. They're definitely up there on my list."

There's nothing wrong with getting another 7 footer. Get this guy Tubby and go Gophers!

Mike Guentzel Back as Associate Head Coach

2011-07-13T11:10:00.000-07:00

Don't worry everyone, Mike Guentzel is back as the Associate Head Coach of the Minnesota Golden Gopher Men's Hockey team. The University of Minnesota rehired him today after a three year absence.

The team relieved him of his duties in 2008, although publicly he said he resigned. During his time away from the Gophers he coached a USHL team in Des Moines and was an assistant coach over at Colorado College.

Prior to his three absence, Guentzel had coached for the Gophers for 14 seasons. He also played for the Gophers as a defenseman ffrom 1981-1985. Guentzel will replace John Hill who was let go a few weeks ago.

Nebraska is in the Big Ten Now and I Can't Wait

2011-07-07T09:41:00.000-07:00

To beat the Huskers!

Nebraska has a storied program and it should be a ton of fun to watch the Huskers compete with the Gophers for years to come. Personally, I like Nebraska much better than I like Ohio State or Wisconsin.

The Huskers come to TCF Bank Stadium this year. It's Jerry Kill's first year, but he does have some talent on this team. Tim Brewster, with all of his flaws as a coach, was a great recruiter.

I can't wait to watch the Huskers and the Gophers this year! Buy Gopher Husker football tickets from Ticket King today!

Defensive Tackle Josh Tauefa Leaves Team

2011-07-06T09:57:00.000-07:00

Josh Tauefa was granted release from the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers football team. This move was confirmed on Thursday. The 6 foot 4 280 pound redshirted last season as a freshman.

Tauefa is the third player to leave the program this month. DeLeon Eskridge and Tiree Eure are the other two.

New President Eric Kaler: Who He is And How He Effects Maturi

2011-07-05T10:56:00.000-07:00

The University of Minnesota has a new President! Eric Kaler took over for Robert Bruininks on Friday and talked to the media for the first time as well. Kaler was named to the position in November. He graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1982.

Kaler hasn't decided the fate of athletic director Joel Maturi. He had this to say about Maturi:

"I'm going to take the first 100 days of my time to evaluate, and I'm not going to make any personnel decisions," said Kaler, the former provost at Stony Brook University in New York. "I have met Joel, great guy."

Interestingly enough, he might not have to fire Maturi since he has already turned down contract hours on two occasions. He turned down a one year and two year extension.

What Malcolm Moulton Brings to the Gophers

2011-07-01T09:43:00.000-07:00

As I wrote about earlier, Malcolm Moulton is a new wide receiver for the Minnesota Gophers. One of new Gophers head coach first courses of action was to get Moulton on the team. Moulton came to the gophers from Fort Scott Community College in Kansas. He hails from Georgia and has blazing speed. Here's what Jerry Kill had to say about going after Moulton:

"I knew once I got here and saw the morning workouts that we didn't have a lot of speed and guys who can make some plays," Kill said. "We certainly hope [Moulton] can establish some things. He can run. Hopefully he can adapt to our system."

Hopefully Moulton provides the Gophers with a game changer who can make some big plays for a team that was seriously lacking in big plays last season and during the Tim Brewster era.

Gophers Offer Lakeville South's Mitch Leidner a Scholarship

2011-06-28T11:29:00.000-07:00

Lakeville South's quarterback Mitch Leidner met with Gopher head coach Jerry Kill on Monday when Kill offered Leidner a scholarship.

The Gophers had been planning on trying to make him a tight end because of his size and athleticism, but their minds were changed soon after they saw Leidner throw at a tournament this summer.

The 6-4, 220-pound quarterback threw for 2,096 yards and 17 touchdowns as a junior last fall.

Wow, this would be a great signing for the Gophers if they can somehow get him. Leidner is being aggressively pursued by the Iowa Hawkeyes and if they got him they would also be keeping him away from one of their biggest rivals. Hopefully Kill can sign this kid because keeping big time talent in state is going to be a key to Kill's success at Minnesota.

Golden Gopher Tight End Tiree Eure Also Set to Transfer

2011-06-24T09:33:00.000-07:00

In addition to DeLeon Eskridge transferring, Golden Gopher tight end Tiree Eure also has plans to transfer even though he was entering his senior season.

According to the Star Tribune, "Eure, a senior who transferred from Lackawanna College and served as backup to Eric Lair at tight end, caught three passes for 47 yards and a touchdown in his lone season with the Gophers. No reason was given for his departure. 'Things just didn't work out for Tiree,' Kill said."

Although it is said to watch these Gophers go, there is some good news. With their deparatures, the Gophers will be adding Dexter Foremon and Malcolm Moulton to the roster for next fall. They are both wide receivers. Moulton was recruited from a Fort Scott Community College in Kansas and is expected to be a big time contributor. On why Kill felt he needed to add two receivers to the team, he said he felt like we needed more depth at the position. Moulton is pictured above.

Senior Running Back DeLeon Eskridge Not Returning to U

2011-06-23T10:21:00.000-07:00

DeLeon Eskridge will not be returning to the University of Minnesota for his senior season. Eskridge was the leading rusher on the team last year and scored seven touchdowns in the process. The University granted a release of his scholarship so that he could transfer to a school closer to home in San Francisco. The reason he is moving back is because his family is having problems right now. Head Coach Jerry Kill had this to say:

"He and I both felt it was in his best interest to make this decision"

Duanne Bennett now returns as the only senior running back for the Gophers next season.

This is a low blow for the Gophers. This is going to make a strong year for Jerry Kill tough to come by. Sure, DeLeon Eskridge wasn't that good, but he was semi-productive. I hope a young back emerges during training camp so that Kill can have a really good first season at the U.

Gophers Change How You Pay for Season Tickets

2011-06-23T10:12:00.000-07:00

The Minnesota Golden Gophers basketball season tickets will be purchased a little bit differently this upcoming season. Rather than just paying $600 for season tickets, customers will have to give a donation to the school depending on where the ticket is. Here's a quote from the Startribune about it:

"The best seats in Williams Arena will cost season-ticket holders $100, $250 or $400 apiece, depending on their location. The most expensive seats (midcourt) will cost Gophers men's basketball fans $1,060 annually or approximately $51 per home game. According to David Crum, the university's director of development, Minnesota men's basketball is the only program in the Big Ten without preferred seating. A limited plan that affects about 1,000 season-tickets and has existed for more than a decade requires a $1,000 or $700 fee for specific seats."

Just because everyone else does it doesn't mean we have to do it. Crum, would you jump off a cliff if the rest of the Big Ten did? Didn't think so. It's not like your basketball team is so good that people are going to want to pay that much anyway.

Maturi Not Cutting Back on Non-Profit Sports Teams

2011-06-17T09:20:00.000-07:00

The University of Minnesota is one of 9 of 73 schools in the power conferences that fields at least 25 total teams. Maturi takes pride in aspect of the school. He's always been told to cut back on teams such as gymnastics and wrestling, but that's what has made the school great. Maturi is strongly opposed to funneling all of the schools funding to football, basketball, and hockey:

"Quite frankly, if we're going to operate it strictly like a business, we should have three products, not 25," Maturi said, referring to revenue-generating football, men's basketball and men's hockey. "But because Minnesota has always believed in that opportunity and that consistent mission, we've been able to [keep all 25 sports]."

Maturi later went on to say that the reason he is able to keep all the programs up and running is that the school gets 6.5 million from the Big Ten Network.

Okay, Maturi, I understand your logic and you think you're doing an amazing job, but you're not looking at the whole picture. If you put a little more effort into the success of the bigger programs that people care about, you would get a lot more funding from alumni. Then you would be able to fund the programs that no one watches with that money. I appreciate the fact that it's very well rounded at the U, but think about the long run. The school can make a lot more money and thye will please the boosters writing out the pay checks

Should we be Paying Student Athletes? Maturi Doesn't Think So

2011-06-16T08:05:00.000-07:00

In an article in the Startribune, Joe Maturi was interviewed and was asked if he believed that students athletes should be paid. He said no and that he thought it would be really complicated if it was that way. "Is it just people that play in the games or do you include the reserves as well? It's a complicated issue. I think that if the kids leave the university with their degree, they are leaving with something that's going to impact them for the rest of their lives. If they don't leave here with their degree, then it's not good for us and it's not good for them. But I'm against paying." (Startribune)

Here's my opinion on it. Why not pay these players? Sure, a degree can lead to a lot of money, but the Universities are making SO much money off of these kids. Prime example, how about when they sell jerseys with the number of a player on it. Sure, it doesn't say the players name on the back, but it's practically the same thing. The schools are marketing players and they should be making money. I think that they should pay the reserves just as much as the stars. Take the revenue that the team made and split a small amount of it among the players on the team. These schools are making a lot of money off these sports teams, they surely can afford it.

Gopher Target Makes US Select Team

2011-06-14T07:40:00.000-07:00

Tubby Smith has been targeting Apple Valley's Tyus Jones ever since he made the varsity basketball team in 8th grade. His court vision, size, and ballhandling skills make him an ideal point guard who could really help the Gophers. Too bad he's not such a well kept secret anymore.

Jones made the U-16 National Developmental team this week after three days of grueling try outs in Colorado Springs, Colorado. 27 of the top prospects in the nation were invited to try out for the team and only 12 made the team. ESPN.com recently named him the top point guard in the class of 2014. He's received scholarship offers from the University of Minnesota and Iowa. Expect about every school in the country to make a play for him.

The most impressive part about it is that he backed up the hype with this performance and by making this team. He was mostly invited because of his reputation, but showed that he is the real deal. The Gophers are going to have to do everything in their power to keep this kid from the state because he is the best prospect it has seen in quite some time. He's the most highly touted prospect since Royce White, who currently plays at Iowa State.

Jerry Kill('s) with Realism

2011-06-08T09:27:00.001-07:00

Jerry Kill, whose predecessor attempted to relate to fans through unfounded optimism, has taken the approach of realism and killed it. Gopher fans love the realistic approach Jerry Kill is portraying for the Gophers' football team.

Kill has promised very little to his audiences except to make the Gophers do things the right way and give it their all in football.

While on his out-state tour, Kill visited Hutchinson, Willmar and Mankato.

Kill has also expressed 4 basic rules he expects the Gophers football team to follow:

1. Be on time
2. Act right
3. Go to class
4. Play hard on Saturday

Realism may challenge No. 3, but hey, I've seen stranger things happen.

As for Kill's No. 1 goal? He wants people to be able to look him in the eye and say they are proud to be a Gopher fan.

11am Kickoff Goes Bu-Bye?

2011-06-08T09:13:00.000-07:00

Adding Nebraska into the fold allowed the Big Ten to renegotiate it's TV contracts with ABC and ESPN. This is very good for those of us who like to spend our Friday nights at the bar. Why you ask?

Because the renegotiations have given the Big Ten potential to load up on the 2:30pm Saturday time slot. Prior to this, the Big Ten was banned from having night games in November, sticking them in the 11am spot. 11am is simply too early for the hungover, which leads to poor fan support, a busy custodial staff and low TV ratings because college kids are still asleep.

An 11am start time is hated by everyone because it helps no one.

Tailgating at 11am? Sure, everyone loves bacon, but everyone loves sleep too -- especially as the season gets further along and the temperature drops exponentially.

A later kick off will get the college kids there, improving the student section and making the stadium full of die-hards and normal joes. Here's to no more (or less) 11am kick offs. Cheers.

Brewster Speaks!

2011-06-01T09:23:00.001-07:00

In the seven months since his debacle of being the head football coach for the Minnesota Golden Gophers ended, the man known as Tim ‘sounds-like-a-sleazy-used-car-salesman’ Brewster has finally broken silence. Here was the old Brew had to say:

"I poured my heart and soul into that situation in Minnesota and I was disappointed with how it ended," Brewster told Naples (Fla.) Daily News, “But I'm a positive guy and you're not going to keep me down long.”

Listen Brew, I know how you feel. Junior year of high school, I poured my heart into chemistry class that year. I met with the teacher about as many times as you called your idiotic offense out of the shot gun. I had a great teacher too. She was awesome too; she was never rattled by my bone-headedness which saw me get a D+ in the class.

You know Brew; there are a few similarities here. I had a great teacher that never quit on me despite my stupidity. Meanwhile, you had a great quarter back in Adam Webber who never quit on you despite your stupidity. Also, we both poured are hearts and souls into what we did.

However, that is where the similarities end and the differences arise. You see, I wound up with a D+, miraculously passed the class and went onto continue my education, excelling in the arts and English’s. Meanwhile you wound up with an F, failed as a coach, lost your job and excelled in absolutely nothing.

Continue to think positive Brew, because at the moment that is all you have. That is unless you do decide to become a used car salesman, because unlike coaching, I see you excelling in that field.

Jerry Kill: A killer realist

2011-05-27T09:17:00.000-07:00

It is so glad to hear that Jerry Kill, the new U of M football coach isn’t trying to give us spiked kool-aid like his former predecessor Tim “We are going to the Rose Bowl” Brewster.

From the sounds of it, Kill is a killer realist. In a recent newspaper article for the Mankato Free press, he was quoted as saying the following: “The one thing I can promise is that I’m going to work my guts out for you,” Kill said. “I’m a workaholic, and me and my staff are going to do everything we can to turn this program around.”

And instead of setting his goal on making it to the Rose he has put together the following four realistic goals:

1. Be on time.

2. Act right.

3. Go to class.

4. Play hard on Saturday.

It sounds like Kill is a breath of fresh air. Hopefully with time, he can make it to the Rose Bowl, but in the meantime it is just uplifting to hear a Golden Gophers football coach not sound drunk.

Kim Kardashian is now engaged to former Gopher Kris Humphries

2011-05-25T10:30:00.000-07:00

My oh my did Kris Humphries ever have himself a year. Not only did he show us he was one of the top 10 rebounders in the NBA (Don’t believe me? Check out his stats), he proved to everyone he was just as good at finding broads as he was at crashing the boards.

Today it was reported that Kim Kardashian became engaged to the Minnesota native. Congrats to you Kris! Something tells me you love it when she gets into the rebounding position!

Academic scores drop a little, but really who cares

2011-05-24T08:56:00.000-07:00

Division I sports are an academic joke. I know there is a couple of Blake Hoffarbers out there who actually work hard at academics, but a large amount struggle like Al Nolen and need a tutor.

And you know what? That makes sense. Not everyone is good at everything. Whereas I do above average in the classroom, I would get an F+ trying to play Division I basketball. Whereas Al Nolen does above average on the court being an adequate Division I point guard, he does poorly in the classroom. So, give him a tutor to help with his papers and tests. It would be no different if I wanted to be a Division I Athlete and I got the best personal basketball coach in the world.

So when word came out today the boy’s basketball scored the lowest and the football team scored the second lowest in the latest Academic Progress Report (APR)- a measuring tool for the NCCA- my reaction was this: Just so long as they don’t get scholarships taken away and don’t wind up on academic probation, so what?

It’s like me with chemistry class: Just don’t fail. That’s all the football team and basketball team has to do academically: Just don’t fail.

Because football and basketball make money for the school (at least that is what they are suppose to do for most Division I school, don’t know if the crappy football at the U has, but basketball I bet has) it is there job to perform well on the field and just well enough in the classroom so they are able to play their best players and PLAY WELL ON THE FIELD!!

Meanwhile, when I heard baseball, means gymnastic, means tennis, women’s cross-country, women’s basketball, women’s gymnastic, soccer, women’s swimming, and women’s golf all earned perfect scores, my reaction was this:

That’s your guy’s job! It is your job to raise our Athletic Department’s APR up while Football and Basketball are just getting by, not failing, and hopefully playing well on the field and raising money for the school.

And if you guys happen to be good and stuff, great! But if not? So what!

And if any of the players on the sports that aren’t shown on primetime TV on the major TV networks like ABC, CBS, NBC and FOX are offended by this I am going to quote a former Division I athlete and Miami Hurricane Player turned professional wrestler named Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson

“Shut your mouth and know your role!”

You have every right to pursue your dreams and aspirations, but don’t be pissed off when I say the Athletic Department at the U cares about how well you guys do. If they had the choice of the football team winning a national championship and the women’s soccer team winning a national championship, athletic director Joe Maturi would choose the football team faster than Bill Clinton would chose anyone to do ‘it’ with over Hillary.

So when Maturi said, “Women's soccer is the poster child.” All I could do was laugh.

The only thing women’s soccer is the poster for, is the bathroom wall at a frat house.

But seriously, congrats on making it to the sweet 16 last year in the NCCA women’s soccer tournament, hopefully you made money for the school like the Basketball team did in the past when they made it to the sweet 16.

MarQueis Gray coaching at DeLaSalle High School

2011-05-19T10:48:00.001-07:00

Did you know Minnesota's starting quarterback MarQueis Gray will serve an internship at DeLaSalle High School, helping run workouts and drills for the Islanders' football team?

Good for Gray. I am happy he is helping give back to the Minnesota Community by coaching our youth.

On an unrelated side note, former Gopher’s great Quincy Lewis was an assistant basketball coach for Islander’s basketball.

Scott Matyas is breaking records and settling scores.

2011-05-19T10:46:00.000-07:00

The Gophers senior pitcher and team closer Scott Matyas set a Big Ten conference record for career saves earlier this month and has been adding to it. Matyas made Big Ten baseball history on May 7 when he threw one pitch, getting Michigan's Garrett Stephens to ground out to shortstop in an 11-10 Gophers victory. It was Matyas' 33rd save of his career, a conference record he has since increased to 35.

Matyas is one of the key reasons why the Gophers have a record of (21-20,12-9) and are still in contention for a Big Ten title going into the last weekend of the regular season (The gophers are one game back behind Michigan State.)

Matyas who has already been drafted twice, definitely has the potential to be a future player in the MLB, meanwhile in the present we hope he can help us win the big 10 title this year.

Former Golden Gopher Sandy Stephens elected to College Football Hall of Fame

2011-05-18T08:34:00.000-07:00

Sandy Stephens who was the last Gophers quarterback to lead us to the Rose Bowl in back to back seasons in 1961 and 1962 was announced to be part of the 2011 College football hall of fame class. He was also the last gophers QB to lead us to an national championship in 1960. But more importantly, he was the first ever black quarterback selected to an All-American team.

Congrats Sandy, you deserve it!

Will Adam Weber get signed?

2011-05-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

After hearing former Minnesota Golden Gopher starting Quarter Back Adam Weber was not one of the 12 QB’s drafted, I was rather surprised. Out of all the 12 QB’s drafted not a single one had to deal with as much coaching turmoil or instability. Because of that, Weber wasn’t going to be labeled as a system quarterback; instead he was going to be labeled as a resilient quarterback who works hard and battles through changes.

Supposedly there are teams interested in him, and in my opinion they should. While Adam Weber might not have the strongest arm or the fastest legs what he has displayed in his four years at Minnesota is a tremendous work ethic and the ability to improve despite playing in an unstable environment.

Tubby Smith is Cancer Free.

2011-05-12T10:28:00.000-07:00

As reported in the Star Tribune today Minnesota Golden Gopher Men’s Basketball Coach Tubby Smith.
Here are some key quotes found in the article written by one of our favorite writers for the Strib MYRON P. MEDCALF .
"Amid speculation, I want to make it aware that I did in fact undergo a procedure on April 21 at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester," Smith, who turns 60 next month, said in the statement. "During my regular physical last spring, it was discovered that my prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels were high.
"A biopsy was done and it was discovered that I had early stages of prostate cancer. I am happy to say that the cancer was contained and removed and I am now cancer free and feeling great."

We are truly happy for Tubby Smith that he is medically healthy.

Goldy's Letter Worked!!

2011-05-10T11:03:00.000-07:00

As reported here:http://www.kare11.com/sports/gophers/article/922538/452/Ralph-Sampson-not-entering-NBA-Draft--

It sounds like ol’ Ralphy Boy decided to return to school. While in the article it says it was his dad, NBA Legend Ralph Sampson that convinced him to stay in school, word from inside the lockeroom is that it was really Goldy’s letter.

Nice going Goldy! And Ralph, thanks for coming back!

Goldy Gopher’s letter to Ralph Sampson III

2011-05-09T11:05:00.000-07:00

*Here at Ticket King we have a team of some of the best investigative sports journalist in the world. Just recently one of them, who due to legal reason we are unable to name, used his stealthy abilities to get inside the Minnesota Golden Gophers Basketball team lock room. While in there he said it smelled like a disappointing season and found this typed letter addressed to Ralph Sampson III tapped to his locker from Goldy Gopher himself.

Dear Ralphy Boy,

If someone would have told me one of key performers on the Minnesota Golden Gophers basketball team with eligibility for this upcoming season was entering the NBA draft the following two thoughts would have entered my brain.

1.Well Rodney Williams does have loads of potential. It’s too bad he is not staying in school to patent down his skills, but he is a top 20 talent. So if he needs the money, he needs the money. I understand.

2.Trevor Mbawkwe. No please don’t go, you are an absolute beast! To quote Kanye West, we need you like “Kathy needs Regis,” Trevor please don’t walk. It is too bad, you aren’t 6’11 because then you would be a top 5 pick. Trevor you are undersized for the NBA. Stay in college and continue to destroy in the Big Ten.

Hey Ralph, when someone told me you were entering the draft this thought entered my brain:

“And Bucky the Badger is stronger than me. “

I realize you are a talented player. You are taller than a skyscraper and magically developed three point range this past season. You have many talents that make you far superior than your less than talented former cohort, who thankfully is transferring, Colton Iverson. However, being better than C. Iverson is a lot different than being better than A. Iverson, in all honesty it is not saying much.

So please Ralph, listen to your dad and Tubby Smith and stay in school. If you’re lucky, you might get drafted next year, but even that it is a stretch.

I know this letter has been rather harsh, but if you haven’t noticed by now, it is because I care about you and the team. I truly believe it would be in the best interest for both you and the team if you stayed in school and played your senior season.

Sincerely,

Goldy Gopher

*This is fiction writing and is really a blog post made by a wimpy Ticket King intern who will now be scared to death if Ralph reads this and confronts him about it. And if he is ever confronted about it, all he can do is defend himself with used ticket stubs.

Minnesota Gophers Hockey Team Adds Four Recruits

2011-04-27T10:08:00.000-07:00

The Minnesota Gophers Hockey team has picked up four recruits in the last month. Michael Shibrowski, Blake Thompson, Justin Kloos, and Chris Rial have all committed to the University of Minnesota. Shibrowski is a goaltender from Edina, Minnesota who is currently playing for the Des Moines Buccaneers of the USHL. Justin Kloos is a winger from Lakeville, Minnesota who will be a senior at Lakeville South. He may skip his senior year all together to play in the USHL. Blake Thomspon is a defenseman from Eden Prairie, Minnesota who has played 3 seasons in the USHL. He is 6'4 and weighs 231 lbs. Chris Rial is another defenseman, this time from Las Vegas, Nevada. He is 6'5 and 205 lbs who is playing in the NAHL.

Taylor Matson Named Captain of Hockey Team

2011-04-27T10:04:00.000-07:00

Senior winger Taylor Matson has been named the Minnesota Gophers Hockey Captain for the 2011-2012 season. The Mound, Minnesota native scored 10 goals and added 3 assists in 30 games last season. He suffered two season ending injuries in his first two seasons. He fought back through the injuries and has kept training hard. He is the second Holy Angels Academy alum in a row to don the "C', replacing Jay Barribal.

Minnesota Gophers Spring Game Review

2011-04-27T09:58:00.000-07:00

The Minnesota Gophers hosted their annual Spring Game at TCF Bank Stadium on Saturday. I attended the game, with my dad, brother, and two relatives from Florida. The weather wasn't the best but it was great to be back at TCF Bank Stadium. It was my first glimpse of new head coach Jerry Kill and MarQueis Gray playing quarterback. Moses Alipate was quaterbacking the second unit. It wasn't a flashy scrimmage but I didn't expect it to be. Just simply running some plays and gaging the depth chart. I am excited for the first game against USC at the Coliseum. Purchase your Minnesota Gopher football tickets with Ticket King!

Minnesota Gophers Basketball Add Two Junior Players

2011-04-18T09:11:00.000-07:00

Tubby Smith has picked up two junior college players to add to his 4th recruiting class. The two players are guard Julian Welch and power forward Andre Ingram. Julian Welch averaged 19 points and five assists at Yuba College in California, while Andre Ingram averaged 13 points, seven rebounds at Butler Community College in Kansas. Both players have two years of eligibility left. The two scholarships became available after Colton Iverson and Devoe Joseph left the program.

MarQueis Gray Finally Getting His Chance

2011-04-18T09:01:00.000-07:00

MarQueis Gray is finally getting his chance. Gray had to play back-up for 4 year starter Adam Weber at quarterback. They moved him to wide receiver for a season. Now, MarQueis Gray is finally getting his chance at quarterback for the Minnesota Gophers. It sounds like Jerry Kill will go with MarQueis Gray at the helm, and this was even further displayed when fellow quarterback JD Pride was moved from backup quarterback to slot receiver. I think many Minnesota Gopher fans are excited to see what this athletic player can bring. With a new head coach and a new quarterback, there is a new aurora about the team around town. Purchase your Minnesota Gopher football tickets with Ticket King!

Minnesota Gophers Spring Game on April 23, 2011

2011-04-18T08:51:00.000-07:00

The Minnesota Gophers Football Team will play their annual Spring Game on April 23, 2011 at TCF Bank Stadium at 1 PM. The game will be televised on the Big Ten Network. It is an exciting time to be a Minnesota Gopher football fan. Head coach Jerry Kill has been spreading hope to Minnesota football fans for his no-nonsense and hardworking attitude. He has been nothing but honest and tough on his players so far. He has stressed to just get better every day and correcting mistakes so that they don't happen again. Get out and support the Maroon and Gold!

Will Trevor Mbakwe Stay?

2011-04-08T12:35:00.000-07:00

Trevor Mbakwe was an important player this season for the Minnesota Gophers Men's Basketball team. He averaged 13.9 points and 10.5 rebounds a game this season, as a junior. The question now is, will he stay or will he depart for the NBA? I hope he returns and has a strong senior season. In any instance, I could not blame him for testing the NBA waters. I'm sure it has been his dream since a young age. Time will tell if he stays or not, but it'd be great if he does.

Should TCF Bank Stadium Allow Alcohol?

2011-04-08T12:22:00.000-07:00

We all know the debate - alcohol and TCF Bank Stadium. The first two seasons at the Bank have seen no alcohol. However, the Senate’s Commerce and Consumer Protection Committee approved a proposal Wednesday to let the university – and not the Legislature – decide the issue. Will the University change it's policy? Will it stay the same? It's something to pay attention to and keep an eye on.

Minnesota-Duluth Advances to National Championship Game

2011-04-08T12:10:00.000-07:00

Okay, so it isn't the Minnesota Gophers, but I figured since they are a Minnesota school it would be nice to note them. Yesterday afternoon the Minnesota-Duluth Bulldogs defeated the Notre Dame Fighting Irish 4-3 to advance to their 2nd ever NCAA Championship Game. They lost in their only appearance so this could be the first title Duluth brings home. They will square off against the Michigan Wolverines, who upset the mighty North Dakota Fighting Sioux 2-0 at the Xcel Energy Center. The Bulldogs and Wolverines will face eachother at the Xcel Energy Center on Saturday night, 7 PM. Purchase your tickets with Ticket King!

Minnesota Hockey Agrees To Join Big Ten Hockey Conference

2011-04-01T07:07:00.000-07:00

The Minnesota Gophers Men's Hockey Team has been a member of the WCHA for a long time. That will all change in the 2013-2014 as Minnesota will join Wisconsin, Penn State, Michigan, Michigan State, and Ohio State as part of the new Big Ten Hockey Conference. Each team in the league will play 20 conference games and gives each team a minimum of 14 non-conference games, depending on NCAA exemptions. It was a big change but hopefully a change for the better in college hockey.

Minnesota Basketball Recruit Joe Coleman Wins Mr. Basketball

2011-03-30T08:42:00.001-07:00

Joe Coleman had quite the week. The Hopkins senior captured his 3rd straight Class AAAA championship with Hopkins on Saturday and on Tuesday was named Minnesota's "Mr. Basketball." The super athletic guard had a great state tournament, capped off with a state championship victory over Eden Prairie. Coleman is a Minnesota Gopher recruit and will be joining the squad next season. His head coach, who has coached numerous Division 1 players and even Kris Humphries of the NBA, said Coleman was "the most athletic player I've ever coached."

Jerry Kill & Spring Practice

2011-03-30T08:31:00.000-07:00

Spring practice is underway for the Golden Gophers football team. This is the first sight for Golden Gopher football fans to see new head coach Jerry Kill and the team. After reading some recent articles about the practices, it seems that head coach Kill is definitely a tough guy. He has been adamant about being physically fit and tough. He has also been vocal about the players earning higher grades academically and being on time. When it's all said and done, Jerry Kill will be graded on wins and loses. However, it's very nice to see the new head coach demanding toughness and discipline. You get the sense that he won't allow soft players or a soft program, which is refreshing.

Murray Warmath, Former Minnesota Gopher Coaching Legend Passes Away

2011-03-21T08:01:00.000-07:00

Murray Warmath has passed away at age 98. Murray Warmath was the head coach of the Minnesota Gophers Football team from 1954 to 1971. In his 18-year coaching career at Minnesota, Warmath went 87–78–7 overall, and 65–57–4 in the Big Ten. He led the Gophers to a National Championship in 1960 and a Rose Bowl victory in 1961 over UCLA. The 1960 National Championship is the most recent National Championship in football for the University of Minnesota. He turned out a number of great players and fielded many great teams. The Humboldt, Tennessee native passed away in Bloomington, Minnesota. You will be missed Murray.

Will Tubby Smith Stay?

2011-03-18T12:02:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, there were reports that Tubby Smith was in discussions with the University of Arkansas. Arkansas's coach was fired recently and they are looking to hire a new basketball coach for a program that won the 1994 NCAA Championship. However, Tubby Smith responded by saying he wants to stay put in Minnesota. Is Tubby telling the truth? Is Tubby Smith on the verge of leaving Dinkytown?

Aaron Ness Departs For New York Islanders

2011-03-18T11:55:00.000-07:00

Aaron Ness has departed from the Minnesota Gophers and will sign a contract with the New York Islanders. Aaron Ness was a Mr. Hockey award winner while playing at Roseau High School, a small town located in the top left corner of Minnesota. Ness was a solid defender for the Minnesota Gophers. Although small in stature, Ness was a reliable defender and has a high hockey IQ. Good luck to Aaron Ness and best of luck in the NHL! Make Minnesota proud!

Minnesota Gophers Swept by Alaska Anchorage

2011-03-14T08:39:00.000-07:00

The pain continues. After a tough football season, a rough basketball season, the hockey season now comes to an end. The Minnesota Gophers were swept by Alaska Anchorage over the weekend in the first round of the WCHA Tournament. The Seawolves won by 4-3 and 2-0 scores, a sweep that leaves Minnesota Gophers fans wondering what is going on. That will be now 3 straight seasons without qualifying for the NCAA Tournament. I am truly at a loss of words.

Minnesota Gophers Fall 75-65 to Northwestern Wildcats in Big Ten Tournament

2011-03-11T07:00:00.000-08:00

The Minnesota Gophers fell to the Northwestern Wildcats 75-65 in the first round of the Big Ten Tournament yesterday, putting a possible end to their season. Minnesota had been on a historic slide the 2nd half of the season and the loss just cements the disappointing season. Michael Thompson scored 35 points for the Northwestern Wildcats. Trevor Mbakwe led the team with 19 points and 11 rebounds, while Ralph Sampson III chipped in 12 points. The loss leaves Gophers fans wondering what went wrong this year. They might make the NIT Tournament, but we had hopes for the NCAA.

Minnesota Gophers Unbeaten Streak Reaches 7

2011-03-07T08:22:00.000-08:00

The Minnesota Gophers Hockey team is getting hot at the right time. Over the weekend, the Minnesota Gophers traveled up to Bemidji and took 3 out of 4 points against the Bemidji State Beavers. On Friday night, the two teams tied 3-3 after Bemidji scored the tying goal with 40 seconds left to send the game into overtime. On Saturday night, the Minnesota Gophers responded with a 3-2 overtime victory. Nick Bjugstad, who has been playing absolutely lights out since the World Juniors Tournament scored the game-winning goal. He also scored one in regulation. The team will now host the Alaska-Anchorage Seawolves in the first round of the WCHA Tournament. The Minnesota Gophers grabbed the #5 seed with a total of 31 points.

Minnesota Gophers Fall to Penn State

2011-03-07T08:14:00.000-08:00

The Minnesota Gophers fell to the Penn State Nittany Lions on Sunday at Williams Arena. The final score read Penn State 66, Minnesota 63. The loss leaves the Gophers stumbling. After a season that started with such promise, the team has lost 8 of the last 9 to end the regular season. Talor Battle scored 22 points for the Nittany Lions and Blake Hoffarber had 17 for the Gophers. The 6-12 Big Ten record is the worst conference record the team has had under head coach Tubby Smith. However, with the Big Ten Tournament approaching, the team has a slight chance at least to qualify for the NCAA Tournament with a Big Ten Tournament Championship. While it will be a tough task, there is still a chance at least.

Minnesota Gophers Wrap Up Regular Season at Bemidji State

2011-03-04T12:43:00.000-08:00

The Minnesota Gophers hockey team will travel to Bemidji State this weekend to take on the Bemidji State Beavers. This is the first season for the Beavers in the WCHA. Although they've had a few growing pains, they are a scrappy bunch and have the best powerplay unit in the conference. Meaning, the Minnesota Gophers need to stay out of the box. Currently 19th in the Pairwise Rankings, a sweep would be huge and put the Gophers even closer to hopefully making the NCAA Tournament. Get your Minnesota Gophers tickets with Ticket King!