Big Ten · 2026

Minnesota

2025 record 8–5 5–4 conference
Postseason Rate Bowl W 20–17 OT vs New Mexico
Head coach P.J. Fleck
Scheme Multiple / 4-3
Conference
C+

8–5 baseline and bowl win; Portal #13 and 6.5 under lean keep it mid-pack

Portal
C−

Portal #13

Depth
C

Early chart two-deeps exist without elite pedigree

Market odds

To Win Big Ten
Yes 0.00%
No 0.00%
To Make Conf. Championship
Yes 0.00%
No 0.00%
Over 6.5 wins
Yes 0.00%
No 0.00%

Recruiting ranks

Overall #9 50 commits · 245.55 pts
Portal #13 19 commits· avg 85.53

Roster notes

Leading story

Fleck continuity after an 8–5 Rate Bowl win on an early depth chart

Offense

QB Drake Lindsey is listed over Max Shikenjanski. RB Darius Taylor; WR Jalen Smith / Perry Thompson / Javon Tracy; TE Kaden Helms

Defense

Defense is 4-3 with Maverick Baranowski as the clear tackle leader among returners listed

Key offense

  1. 01
    Drake Lindsey QB
    Returning
    • 2025 (incl. bowl): 246/389, 2,382 yds, 18 TD, 6 INT
  2. 02
    Darius Taylor RB
    Returning
    • 2025 (incl. bowl): 143 carries, 670 yds, 4 rushing TD
    • 34 receptions, 245 yds in 10 G
  3. 03
    Javon Tracy WR
    Portal
    • 2025 (incl. bowl): 37 receptions, 454 yds, 6 TD

Key defense

  1. 01
    Maverick Baranowski LB
    Returning
    • 2025 (incl. bowl): 103 tackles, 3.0 sacks, 1 PD
  2. 02
    John Nestor CB
    Portal
    • 2025 (incl. bowl): 50 tackles, 6 INT, 6 PD
  3. 03
    Kerry Brown S
    Returning
    • 2025 (incl. bowl): 56 tackles, 2 INT, 3 PD