EVANSTON, Ill. — Minnesota fell to 1-6 Saturday with a road loss to Northwestern 28-13.   The Gophers had numerous opportunities, but costly turnovers in the second half led to their defeat. 

In the third quarter, senior Duane Bennett, in his final road game for the Gophers, fumbled deep in Northwestern territory.  MarQueis Gray threw an interception on a tipped ball in the end zone on the next drive as well and Minnesota wasnâÄôt able to recover.

The GophersâÄô defense played well and created a lot of pressure on WildcatsâÄô quarterback Dan Persa.  The defense tallied two sacks and also had two turnovers, but MinnesotaâÄôs offense wasnâÄôt able to take advantage of the fortune. 

By the fourth quarter, NorthwesternâÄôs no-huddle offense proved to be too quick for MinnesotaâÄôs defense, which appeared tired.  The Gophers couldnâÄôt get linemen out in time to defend and Northwestern added a touchdown to its lead in the final quarter while running out the clock. 

Gray (147 yards) and Bennett (127) each had more than 100 yards rushing in the game. It was the first time Minnesota had two rushers record more than 100 yards since 2006.

The Gophers gained 269 yards on the ground, but that didnâÄôt amount to many points because they committed mistake after mistake late in their drives.

Malcolm Moulton dropped two potential touchdown catches on routes up the seam and DaâÄôJon McKnight dropped a would-be touchdown catch in the end zone. Minnesota had two costly turnovers.

Senior Kim Royston racked up 17 tackles on defense and also nabbed an interception.