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The season opening did not go well for the Gophers. With ace player Dragan Kesich missing his second field goal which cost the Gophers a win. The game was delayed by rain and thunderstorms. North Carolina won by a narrow victory of 19-17. PJ Fleck, the team coach, commented “This isn’t lost by one person. This isn’t lost by one play. We had a lot of opportunities on offense and defense and special teams.” North Carolina won the toss and rebuffed, letting the Gophers get the start. There were a few newcomers in the team, Max Brosmer, Jai’Onte McMillan and Marcus Major.
Darius Taylor, who was the lead rusher in 2023 was absent owing to an injury. North Carolina’s victory could be largely attributed to Omarion Hampton. He totaled 31 yards on back to back carries.
Fireworks too early- a missed opportunity
Dragan Kesich had an opportunity to push his team to victory. He missed a 47-yard field goal having earlier missed a 27-yard field goal in the beginning of the match. Minnesota firework operators still let on a show , in spite of their loss. Gopher Hole on X commented on this hilarious mishap, “ Fireworks for the LOSS!! #Gophers continue their 2023 season into 2024!! Have a nice night, drive safely, hug your kids !!” Kesich’s kick looked like it might go down the middle, a small wind pushed it when it got to the right upright.
The goal was off by just a few feet. No one knows why fireworks were set off. No explanation as such has been given from their side. The assumption is that the fireworks were planned anyway not depending on the outcome of the match. Another speculation is the operators merely thought the goal went in. One X user commented, “ I can’t believe they set off the fireworks”