No. 12 Michigan secured a 27-24 victory over Minnesota, holding onto the Little Brown Jug in a thrilling matchup during rainy conditions in Ann Arbor. Kalel Mullings emerged as a standout player, rushing for 111 yards and scoring two crucial touchdowns for the Wolverines. Despite Michigan’s 24-3 lead going into the fourth quarter, Minnesota staged a comeback with three touchdowns, bringing the score to 27-24 with only 1:37 remaining in the game.
The Wolverines managed to maintain their lead as the Gophers recovered an onside kick but were penalized for offsides. Mullings stepped up by securing the second kick, allowing Michigan to run out the clock and secure the win. With this victory, Michigan extended their school-record conference winning streak to 27 games, not having lost a Big Ten game since 2021, when Michigan State defeated them.
Minnesota, with a record of 2-3 (0-2 in the Big Ten), aimed to reclaim the Little Brown Jug for the first time in a decade and only the third time in the 21st century. Mullings played a key role in compensating for a lackluster passing game performance, as Michigan’s quarterback Alex Orji completed 10 of 18 passes for 86 yards, throwing one touchdown pass but also an interception that aided Minnesota’s fourth-quarter comeback.
Mullings set the tone early in the game with an impressive 27-yard touchdown run during Michigan’s first drive. The wet weather made offense challenging for both teams, but Michigan’s defense proved pivotal by forcing turnovers and capitalizing on opportunities to establish a substantial lead.
Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota, who is also running for vice president, made a notable appearance at the game, accompanied by a heavy Secret Service presence. Nasty weather conditions, including steady rain and drizzle, added an extra element of difficulty to the game for players and spectators alike.
Both teams experienced injuries during the game, with players like Michigan’s WR Kendrick Bell and Minnesota’s LB Maverick Baranowski temporarily leaving the field. Looking ahead, Minnesota is set to host No. 13 USC next Saturday, while Michigan will face Washington in its first road game of the season.
