Brooks’ Big Day Leads Gophers Over Illinois

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Minnesota Golden Gophers snapped a tough four-game losing streak with a 32-23 victory over Illinois on Saturday.

A touchdown pass from Mitch Leidner to Rashod Still on a one-yard fade route gave the Gophers a 21-13 lead going into the half.

Minnesota's defense forced three turnovers in the win, including an interception by Antonio Johnson.

But the star of the afternoon was freshman running back Shannon Brooks, who scored touchdowns on runs of five, 38, and 74 yards. In all, Brooks finished with 174 yards on 17 carries with three scores on the day.

With the win, the Gophers improve to 5-6 on the season. Minnesota will host the #25 Wisconsin Badgers next weekend for Paul Bunyan's Axe and a chance for bowl eligibility.