The Minnesota Golden Gophers college football program represents the University of Minnesota in NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) competition. The team is a member of the Big Ten Conference, one of the oldest and most prestigious collegiate athletic conferences in the United States. Established in 1882, the Golden Gophers boast a rich history in college football, with a tradition that includes several national championships and numerous conference titles.
The team plays its home games at Huntington Bank Stadium, a state-of-the-art facility located on the university's campus in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The stadium, which opened in 2009, has a seating capacity of approximately 50,805 and is known for its modern amenities and vibrant game-day atmosphere. It replaced the Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome, which was the team's home from 1982 to 2008.
The Golden Gophers have a storied football heritage, highlighted by seven claimed national championships and 18 Big Ten Conference titles. The program enjoyed its most dominant period during the early to mid-20th century, particularly under the leadership of legendary coach Bernie Bierman. Bierman led the team to five national championships between 1934 and 1941.
Throughout their history, the Golden Gophers have produced numerous notable players who have achieved success at both the collegiate and professional levels. Among these are NFL Hall of Famers Bronko Nagurski, a versatile and powerful player known for his contributions on both offense and defense, and Paul Giel, a two-time All-American quarterback and runner-up for the Heisman Trophy in 1953.
In recent years, the program has experienced a resurgence under the guidance of head coach P.J. Fleck, who took over in 2017. Fleck's tenure has been marked by an emphasis on player development, a high-energy approach, and the mantra "Row the Boat," symbolizing perseverance and teamwork. The Golden Gophers have made several bowl game appearances under Fleck and have steadily improved their standing within the competitive landscape of the Big Ten Conference.
