Gophers quarterback Max Brosmer had not turned the ball over since September, but he threw his first interception in 206 attempts in the first half. It led to a Penn State field goal. In the second half, Brosmer fumbled while attempting a pitch and it led to another Penn State field goal and a 26-22 hole.

Minnesota faced the Orange in the 2022 iteration of the Pinstripe Bowl, when the Gophers won 28-20. They last faced Pitt in 1992 in a true road game. If Minnesota loses this week against Wisconsin as 2-point underdogs, its chances of returning to the Bronx would rise dramatically.

The U called a throwback pass from Brosmer to left tackle Aireontae Ersery on second and goal from the 8-yard line.