Jalen Smith’s Diving Overtime Touchdown Seals Dramatic Rate Bowl Win for Gophers
The desert heat in Phoenix may have cooled, but the action at Chase Field was just heating up on Friday, December 26, 2025, as the Minnesota Golden Gophers and the New Mexico Lobos delivered an instant classic in the Rate Bowl. In a game defined by defensive grit and sudden explosive plays, it was Minnesota that emerged victorious, securing a 20-17 walk off win in the first overtime period. The hero of the night was redshirt freshman wide receiver Jalen Smith, whose spectacular diving catch in the back of the end zone not only ended the game but also etched another chapter into Minnesota’s storied bowl history.
With the victory, Minnesota (8-5) extended its incredible postseason winning streak to nine consecutive games, seven of which have come under the leadership of head coach P.J. Fleck. This streak now ties the Gophers with powerhouses like Southern California and Utah for the second longest bowl winning streak in college football history, trailing only Florida State’s 11 game run from the late 80s and 90s. For New Mexico (9-4), the loss was a heartbreaking end to a transformative season under first year coach Jason Eck, who led the Lobos to their first bowl appearance since 2016.
A Defensive Struggle Turns Into a Fourth-Quarter Frenzy
For much of the first three quarters, the 2025 Rate Bowl was a classic "defensive in the desert" affair. The Lobos' defense, which saw a massive turnaround this season, held Minnesota to just 112 yards in the first half and recovered a botched snap on a critical fourth down attempt. New Mexico took an early lead behind the leg of kicker Luke Drzewiecki, who nailed field goals of 31 and 29 yards to put the Lobos up 6-0.
Minnesota finally found its rhythm late in the second quarter. Quarterback Drake Lindsey orchestrated a 75 yard drive, culminating in a 10 yard rainbow pass to Jalen Smith in the corner of the end zone. The Gophers took a narrow 7-6 lead into halftime, a score that remained unchanged throughout a grueling, scoreless third quarter where both teams traded punts and defensive stops.
The game finally cracked open in the fourth. Minnesota appeared to take control when star running back Darius Taylor, who finished with 116 rushing yards, found the end zone on a 5 yard burst to make it 14-6 with 13:30 remaining. However, the momentum shifted instantly. On the ensuing kickoff, New Mexico’s Damon Bankston fielded the ball and sprinted 100 yards for a touchdown the longest play in Rate Bowl history. The Lobos followed with a successful two point conversion trick play, tying the game at 14 all and eventually sending the contest into overtime.
Overtime Drama and Jalen Smith’s Heroics
New Mexico took the ball first in the extra period but was quickly stifled by a Minnesota defense led by Anthony Smith, who was named the game’s Most Outstanding Defensive Player. After the Lobos settled for a 36-yard field goal to take a 17-14 lead, the stage was set for Minnesota.
Facing a third and 8 from the 12 yard line, Drake Lindsey lofted a pass toward the back of the end zone. Jalen Smith, mirroring his earlier scoring play, laid out for a spectacular diving grab. The stadium held its breath as officials conducted a video review to ensure the ball didn't hit the turf. When the signal for a touchdown was confirmed, the Minnesota sideline erupted in celebration. It was Smith’s second touchdown of the night and a fitting "walk off" end to a hard fought battle.
Reaction and Post-Game Impact
Coach P.J. Fleck was emotional following the win, praising his team’s "resolve, resiliency, and scrap." He noted that winning bowl games has become a core part of the program's identity, regardless of opt-outs or external expectations. The victory was bolstered by the defensive dominance of Anthony Smith, who recorded two sacks and four tackles for loss before announcing in the post-game celebration that he would return to Minnesota for his final season in 2026.
For New Mexico, despite the loss, the season remains a resounding success. Coach Jason Eck highlighted the toughness of his squad, which was picked to finish near the bottom of the Mountain West but ended up competing until the very last play against a Big Ten opponent. The Lobos showed they are no longer an easy out in the college football landscape.
As the Gophers head back to Minneapolis with another trophy for the case, they do so with significant momentum. With core playmakers like Jalen Smith and Darius Taylor proving their worth on a national stage, the "Row the Boat" culture continues to sail strong into the 2026 season.