Nobody saw this Golden Gophers victory coming. Minnesota, down 10 players – many of them key players – due to suspensions, found a way to slow down the high-scoring Washington State Cougars in a 17-12 victory in the Holiday Bowl.
The key play of the game was a pass from Mitch Leidner that looked like a surefire interception, but it was instead batted down by a Washington State defensive back right into the hands of running back Shannon Brooks for the go-ahead touchdown.
#Gophers lucky TD as Shannon Brooks catches it off #Wazzu tip. #HolidayBowlpic.twitter.com/NYdTT84dyb
— Ron Clements (@Ron_Clements) December 28, 2016
Rodney Smith’s nine-yard touchdown run with 2:06 to go in the game sealed the win for Minnesota.
Washington State was favored by 10 points going into the game.
#Gophers win the @HolidayBowlGame! pic.twitter.com/OVjparrYfb
— Minnesota Football (@GopherFootball) December 28, 2016
