Gophers Get Holiday Bowl Win Over Washington State

The Minnesota Gophers (9-4) beat the Washington State Cougars (8-5) 17-12 last night in San Diego for the win at the 2016 Holiday Bowl. The win gives the Gophers nine victories for just the second time since 1905.

The Golden Gophers had only 110 yards of total offense in the first half before finally coming alive in the second half, ending with 279 yards of total offense.

Gopher quarterback Mitch Leidner was 11 of 20 for 110 yards and a touchdown. He also ran for 43 yards.

Minnesota running back Rodney Smith was the games offensive MVP -- carrying the ball 17 times for 74 yards. Gopher linebacker Blake Cashman was named the defensive MVP.