Gophers Undefeated in Non-Conference Play

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) — Kobe McCrary rushed for 107 yards and three touchdowns and Jacob Huff returned an interception 67 yards for a touchdown to lead Minnesota to a 34-3 victory over Middle Tennessee State on Saturday.

Rodney Smith rushed for 107 yards in the first half before leaving with an injury and Conor Rhoda completed 11 of 18 passes for 122 yards in his first game since being named the full-time starter for the Golden Gophers (3-0), who wore all gold for the first time since 1974.

John Urzua was 19 for 34 for 135 yards and two interceptions for Middle Tennessee (1-2) after starting quarterback Brent Stockstill was ruled out with a shoulder injury. Star receiver Richie James had just one catch before leaving early in the second quarter with an ankle injury.

Rhoda was named the full starter this week after sharing duties with Demry Croft through the first two games. Croft was not with the team for disciplinary reasons and Rhoda served as a capable game manager against the overmatched Blue Raiders.

McCrary got the Gophers rolling in the second quarter when he dragged safety Alex Dale into the end zone and absorbed a big hit from Jovante Moffatt for a 13-3 lead.

Canon Rooker's 45-yard field goal served as Middle Tennessee's only points of the game.

The three points allowed were the fewest for Minnesota at TCF Bank Stadium since it opened in 2009.