MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. (Interstat) — Drake Lindsey threw for 204 yards and three touchdowns as Minnesota defeated Akron 41-7 on Saturday, Sept. 19, 2026, at Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome. The Golden Gophers improved to 2-1, while the Zips fell to 1-2. Minnesota controlled the game from the start, building a 20-0 halftime lead. Lindsey completed 17 of 31 passes and connected with Roman Voss, Noah Jennings and Jalen Smith for scores. TJ Thomas rushed 13 times for 122 yards and a touchdown, and A.J. Turner added a rushing score. Javon Tracy caught five passes for 91 yards and returned four punts for 80 yards. Brayden Roggow completed 12 of 25 passes for 131 yards for Akron, which scored on Marcel Williams’ 10-yard run. Donelius Johnson led Akron with 12 tackles. John Nestor and Joey Gerlach each recorded eight tackles, while Karter Menz recorded a sack. The Zips next host UNLV on Sept. 26. Minnesota visits Washington on Sept. 26.