MINNEAPOLIS — In a commanding display of offensive prowess, Max Brosmer connected for a season-high four touchdown passes, leading Minnesota to a decisive 48-23 victory over Maryland on Saturday.

The Gophers, now on a three-game winning streak, improved their record to 5-3 overall and 3-2 in Big Ten play. Daniel Jackson was a standout performer, securing nine catches for 117 yards and two touchdowns, while Elijah Spencer also contributed with two touchdown receptions. This matchup marked the highest point total for Minnesota in a conference game since they defeated Maryland 52-10 on October 26, 2019.

On the other hand, Maryland’s record fell to 4-4, with this game marking their third loss in the last four outings. They struggled to recover from an early deficit in this matchup.

Minnesota took control of the game early. After halting Maryland’s opening drive on a fourth down, Brosmer found Jackson for a 10-yard touchdown pass, marking Minnesota’s first opening drive touchdown of the season. Brosmer then connected with Spencer, extending the lead to 14-0, and just moments later, a critical miscommunication between Maryland’s quarterback Billy Edwards Jr. and his receiver led to a 32-yard pick-six by Justin Walley, putting the Gophers up 21-0.

Defensively, Minnesota has been impressive, having allowed only five passing touchdowns all season and boasting an interception total that is among the highest in the nation. Koi Perich added to the Gophers’ defensive accolades, notching his third interception in two games and raising his season total to five, a record for a Minnesota freshman that has him just two away from the overall program record.

Despite Maryland’s reputation for strong passing, averaging a league-best 301.9 yards per game, they managed to accumulate 323 yards against Minnesota’s fourth-ranked defense, with Edwards completing 19 of 35 passes for 201 yards through three quarters. MJ Morris stepped in late, completing 7 of 8 passes for 122 yards. Receiver Tai Felton, who leads the Big Ten with 73 receptions, recorded nine catches for 104 yards.

Brosmer demonstrated accuracy, finishing 26-for-33 with 320 yards without any interceptions or sacks. Darius Taylor capped the scoring for Minnesota with a 51-yard touchdown run on the first play of the fourth quarter, pushing the lead to 48-10.

The key takeaway from this matchup for both teams highlighted Maryland’s need for better offensive balance, as they rushed the ball just 25 times for 104 yards against Minnesota. In contrast, Minnesota’s Perich continues to emerge as a dynamic player, seamlessly impacting both defense and special teams.

Looking ahead, Maryland will face the challenge of top-ranked Oregon on November 9, while Minnesota will travel to take on No. 20 Illinois next Saturday.