Mankato native Jalen Smith's touchdown catch in overtime lifted the Gophers to a win over New Mexico in the Rate Bowl at Chase Field.

Friday's Rate Bowl was a perfect encapsulation of the Gophers' 2025 season, and it resulted in a 20-17 win against New Mexico, as their bowl game win streak has extended to nine.

New Mexico (9-3) is bowling for the first time since 2016. History: This is the first matchup between the two programs and was an unlikely pairing that first needed two Big XII Conference teams (Iowa State and Kansas State) to opt out of bowl bids.

The Gophers are aiming for their ninth consecutive bowl victory and seventh in a row under coach P.J. Fleck when they take on the Lobos in Phoenix.

Dec 26, 2025; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Minnesota Gophers wide receiver Jalen Smith (8) celebrates with teammate Logan Loya (17) after catching the game winning touchdown pass against the New Mexico Lobos during overtime of the Rate Bowl at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Gophers coach P.J. Fleck spoke with FOX 9's Pierre Noujaim after a 20-17 overtime win over New Mexico in the Rate Bowl on Friday in Phoenix, Ariz. The Gophers finish the season 8-5, and are 7-0 in bowl games under Fleck.

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