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.

The Gophers (6-5, 4-4 Big Ten) came out of the gates like a team hungry for an upset. After forcing a Penn State three-and-out on the first drive of the game, they answered with a nine-play, 70-yard touchdown drive that lasted 4:20. A 20-yard Marcus Major touchdown run gave them an early 7-0 lead.

However, the Gophers offense was shut down by Penn State's defense in a three-and-out and the Nittany Lions carried that momentum on offense, going five plays for 57 yards before Nicholas Singleton rushed for a 12-yard touchdown to give Penn State their first lead of the night, 23-22.