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Quizzes > Sports > Football/Soccer

Are You a True Golden Gophers Football Team Expert?

Think You Can Ace This Gophers Football Quiz Challenge?

Difficulty: Moderate
2-5mins
Learning OutcomesCheat Sheet
paper art illustration golden gophers football trivia quiz player stats memorable games history on coral background

Calling all Minnesota Golden Gophers fans and college football buffs! Ready to prove your mastery of the golden gophers football team? Dive into this free golden gophers football quiz to test your knowledge of player stats, iconic moments, and minnesota golden gophers history. Whether you're a dedicated alumni or a casual supporter, our minnesota gophers trivia will challenge and entertain you from kickoff to final whistle. For even more competition, if you love a college football team quiz, try our college football trivia quiz or warm up with some fun sports trivia . Gear up and take the quiz now to see if you're a true Gopher guru!

What is the nickname of the University of Minnesota's football team?
Badgers
Golden Gophers
Wolverines
Fighting Irish
The University of Minnesota's athletic teams have been known as the Golden Gophers since the late 19th century, reflecting the state's nickname of the "Gopher State." This name was first used by the school's baseball team and soon carried over to football and other sports. The Golden Gophers label is central to university identity and widely recognized across college athletics. Official Athletics Site
In which conference do the Golden Gophers compete?
SEC
Big 12
Pac-12
Big Ten
The Minnesota Golden Gophers have been a member of the Big Ten Conference since 1896, making them one of the conference's founding teams. They compete against other Midwest and East Coast schools in this Power Five league. The Big Ten affiliation shapes much of their schedule, rivalries, and postseason opportunities. Big Ten Conference
What are the official school colors of the Golden Gophers football team?
Maroon and Gold
Red and White
Green and Gold
Blue and Gold
The official colors of the University of Minnesota are Maroon and Gold, adopted in 1884. These colors represent the university at athletic events, branding, and merchandise. The football team dons maroon jerseys with gold accents for home games and gold jerseys for select matchups. University of Minnesota
What year did the Golden Gophers football program begin play?
1881
1882
1900
1895
The Minnesota Golden Gophers football program held its first official game in 1882 against Hamline University. That match marked the beginning of collegiate football at the University of Minnesota. Over the next century, the program grew into one of the Midwest's most storied franchises. Minnesota Golden Gophers Football History
Who is the all-time leading rusher in Minnesota Golden Gophers football history?
Darrell Thompson
Brent Novoselsky
Paul Giel
Marion Barber
Darrell Thompson, who played from 1988 to 1991, holds the Minnesota career rushing record with 4,235 yards. He led the team in rushing each season and earned All-Big Ten honors multiple times. His record stands as one of the longest-running marks in program history. Darrell Thompson
How many national championships have the Golden Gophers football team won?
9
5
7
3
The Minnesota Golden Gophers claim seven national championships (1904, 1934, 1935, 1936, 1940, 1941, 1960) recognized by major selectors. This places them among the winningest programs in early college football history. Their titles came under coaches like Henry L. Williams and Bernie Bierman. CFB Data Warehouse
Who holds the Golden Gophers' career passing yards record?
MarQueis Gray
Tanner Morgan
Tommy Armstrong Jr.
Bryan Cupito
Bryan Cupito, quarterback from 2002 to 2005, threw for 7,442 career yards, making him the all-time passing leader for Minnesota. He achieved this total over four seasons while setting numerous single-game and single-season records. Cupito's consistency and durability helped cement his place in Gophers history. Gophers Sports
What is the name of the Golden Gophers' home stadium since 2009?
Huntington Bank Stadium
Memorial Stadium
Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome
TCF Bank Stadium
TCF Bank Stadium opened in September 2009 as the on-campus home for Minnesota football. Prior to that, the team played in Memorial Stadium and the Metrodome. In 2021, the name changed to Huntington Bank Stadium, but it was known as TCF Bank Stadium from 2009 - 2020. TCF Bank Stadium
Which Golden Gophers player has won the Heisman Trophy?
No Golden Gophers player has won the Heisman
Paul Giel
Darrell Thompson
Bronko Nagurski
Despite several All-American players, no Minnesota Golden Gopher has ever won the Heisman Trophy. The program has produced finalists and finalists but has never claimed college football's highest individual honor. The closest was quarterback Sandy Stephens, who finished third in 1961. Heisman Trophy Official Site
Who was the head coach when the Golden Gophers won their last national championship in 1960?
Tim Brewster
Murray Warmath
P. J. Fleck
Bernie Bierman
Murray Warmath coached Minnesota from 1954 to 1971 and led the Gophers to their final recognized national championship in 1960. His squad compiled an 8 - 2 record and finished atop the polls. Warmath also won several Big Ten titles during his tenure. Murray Warmath
What was Minnesota's record during the 2003 season when they won the Music City Bowl?
9-4
11-2
8-5
10-3
The 2003 Minnesota Golden Gophers finished the season with a 10 - 3 record, capped by a 31 - 28 victory over Auburn in the Music City Bowl. That marked the program's first bowl win since 1962. Quarterback Bryan Cupito played a key role in the upset. 2003 Season Recap
What was the ranking of Penn State when Minnesota ended their 25-game home winning streak at Beaver Stadium in 2019?
No. 3
No. 4
No. 6
No. 5
On September 21, 2019, the Golden Gophers defeated No. 4 Penn State 31 - 26 at Beaver Stadium, snapping Penn State's 25-game home winning streak. It was one of Minnesota's most memorable road victories in recent history. Game Recap
Which bowl game did Minnesota win after the 2022 season?
Fiesta Bowl
Outback Bowl
Alamo Bowl
Gator Bowl
Following the 2022 regular season, the Golden Gophers accepted an invitation to the Alamo Bowl, where they defeated Texas Tech 34 - 31. It marked Minnesota's first Alamo Bowl appearance and added to their bowl victory total. 2022 Alamo Bowl
Which coach holds the record for the most wins in Golden Gophers history?
Tim Brewster
Murray Warmath
P. J. Fleck
Bernie Bierman
Bernie Bierman coached Minnesota in two stints (1932 - 41 and 1945 - 50) and compiled 93 victories, the most in program history. He guided the team to five national championships during the 1930s. His legacy is deeply ingrained in Gophers lore. Bernie Bierman
Who was the first Golden Gophers player inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame?
Paul Giel
Eric Decker
Bronko Nagurski
Bobby Bell
Bronko Nagurski, a two-way star in the 1930s, was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in its inaugural class of 1963. He was known for his power running and defensive play in the NFL after starring at Minnesota. Nagurski remains one of the most legendary figures in both college and professional football. Pro Football Hall of Fame
In what year did Minnesota officially join the Big Ten Conference?
1882
1896
1900
1922
Minnesota was one of the seven founding members of the Western Conference, which later became the Big Ten, in 1896. Since then, the Golden Gophers have competed annually against other conference foes. Their long tenure reflects a tradition-rich history. Big Ten History
Who was the Golden Gophers' head coach immediately before P. J. Fleck?
Tim Brewster
Jerry Kill
Tracy Claeys
Glen Mason
Tracy Claeys took over as interim head coach in 2015 after Jerry Kill resigned and was officially named head coach later that year. He led the team through the 2016 season before P. J. Fleck was hired in 2017. Claeys' tenure bridged two major coaching eras. Tracy Claeys
In which year did TCF Bank Stadium first open to host Golden Gophers football games?
2012
2005
2009
2007
TCF Bank Stadium debuted in September 2009 as the on-campus home for Minnesota football, replacing the Metrodome for home games. Its open-air design provides panoramic views of campus. The venue has hosted Minnesota football ever since, now under the name Huntington Bank Stadium. TCF Bank Stadium
Which Golden Gophers wide receiver was selected in the first round of the 2016 NFL Draft?
Bobby Bell
Eric Decker
Laquon Treadwell
Everson Griffen
Laquon Treadwell was Minnesota's first-ever first-round pick, selected 23rd overall by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2016 NFL Draft. He set multiple school receiving records during his career. His selection was a milestone for the program's NFL pedigree. 2016 NFL Draft
Which Golden Gophers defensive lineman was a consensus All-American in 1960 and later an NFL All-Pro?
Marion Barber
Bobby Bell
Paul Giel
Eric Decker
Bobby Bell earned consensus All-American honors in 1960 before starring in the AFL/NFL, where he was a multi-time All-Pro. He was inducted into both the College and Pro Football Halls of Fame. Bell was instrumental in Minnesota's defensive success during his college tenure. Bobby Bell
Which Golden Gophers quarterback led the team to a 10-2 season in 1960 and was named a First-Team All-Big Ten selection that year?
Tom Sak
Daryle Lamonica
Sandy Stephens
Bob Bussard
Sandy Stephens quarterbacked the Gophers to an 8 - 2 record in 1960, though they were awarded a national title by several selectors. He was the first African-American All-American quarterback and earned First-Team All-Big Ten honors. His leadership was pivotal in one of Minnesota's most celebrated seasons. Sandy Stephens
Who holds the single-season receptions record for the Golden Gophers, set in 2018?
KJ Osborn
Eric Decker
MarQueis Gray
Tyler Johnson
In 2018, Tyler Johnson caught 60 passes, setting the Minnesota single-season reception record. His production helped the Gophers secure a 7 - 6 record and a bowl appearance. Johnson's speed and route running were major factors in the offense's success. Gophers Sports
In which year did the Golden Gophers achieve their first No. 1 AP Poll ranking?
1941
1950
1960
1935
The Gophers first reached No. 1 in the AP Poll during the 1935 season under coach Bernie Bierman. They maintained a strong record throughout the season and were recognized as national champions by several selectors. This milestone marked Minnesota as a college football powerhouse in the 1930s. AP Poll History
What was the final score when the Golden Gophers defeated Auburn in the 2003 Music City Bowl?
24-20
28-21
31-28
35-31
The 2003 Music City Bowl saw Minnesota triumph over Auburn by a 31 - 28 margin. A late touchdown pass secured the win in Nashville. The victory was the Gophers' first bowl win since 1962. 2003 Music City Bowl
Which stadium did the Golden Gophers call home from 1924 until 1981?
Memorial Stadium
Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome
TCF Bank Stadium
Huntington Bank Stadium
Memorial Stadium on the University of Minnesota campus opened in 1924 and served as the Gophers' home field until their move to the Metrodome in 1982. Fondly known as "The Brick House," it hosted countless Big Ten matchups. Part of its facade remains as part of the student union building. Memorial Stadium
Who set the school single-season field goal record with 22 in 2010?
Hassani Gravett
Andrew Weber
Ryan Santoso
Rhys Lloyd
Rhys Lloyd, Minnesota's kicker in 2010, made 22 field goals, setting a new school single-season record. His accuracy was vital to the Gophers' scoring output during that year. Lloyd later continued his career in the NFL. Gophers Sports
What position did Paul Giel play while at Minnesota?
Wide receiver
Quarterback
Linebacker
Running back
Paul Giel starred as the Gophers' quarterback from 1950 to 1952, earning All-American honors twice. He led Minnesota to multiple winning seasons and went on to play professional baseball and minor-league football. Giel remains one of the program's most versatile athletes. Paul Giel
In which year did Minnesota football first compete in the NCAA Division I-A classification (now FBS)?
1972
1975
1978
1981
The NCAA introduced the Division I-A classification in 1978, and Minnesota was among the programs placed at the highest level of college football. This categorization later became known as the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS). It aligned Minnesota with other major football schools. NCAA Divisions
Who is the current head coach of the Golden Gophers football team?
P. J. Fleck
Tracy Claeys
Jerry Kill
Tim Brewster
P. J. Fleck was hired as Minnesota's head coach in January 2017 and remains in that role. Known for his "Row the Boat" mantra, he has led the Gophers to multiple bowl games and their first Top 10 finish since the 1960s. Fleck's tenure has revitalized the program's national profile. P. J. Fleck
Which Golden Gophers defensive player led the team in sacks during the 2022 season?
Boye Mafe
Isaiahh Loudermilk
Samson Okunlola
Mohamed Ibrahim
In 2022, defensive end Boye Mafe recorded nine sacks, the most on the Minnesota roster. His disruption on the edge was a key factor in the Gophers' defensive improvements that season. Mafe's performance earned him All-Big Ten honors. Gophers Sports
In the first-ever Sugar Bowl played following the 1936 season, what was Minnesota's victory margin over LSU?
14-7
18-17
20-14
16-12
On January 1, 1937, Minnesota defeated LSU 20 - 14 in the inaugural Sugar Bowl, capping a national championship season. The Gophers' balanced offense and staunch defense secured the win in Tulane Stadium. This victory helped solidify Minnesota's prominence in the 1930s. Sugar Bowl
Who served as the Golden Gophers' offensive coordinator in 2019 before departing to the NFL?
Marwan Maalouf
Kirk Ciarrocca
Andy Kotelnicki
Matt Simon
Kirk Ciarrocca was Minnesota's offensive coordinator in 2017 - 2018 and left prior to the 2019 season to join the Philadelphia Eagles' staff. He had revitalized the Gophers' offensive scheme, leading to improved statistical outputs. His departure preceded a coaching reshuffle under P. J. Fleck. Kirk Ciarrocca
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Study Outcomes

  1. Recall Iconic Moments -

    After completing the golden gophers football quiz, you will be able to recall pivotal games and championship highlights that shaped the team's legacy.

  2. Identify Standout Players -

    You will identify key athletes from Minnesota Golden Gophers history, recognizing their stats, records, and impact on the field.

  3. Analyze Season Statistics -

    By engaging with our college football team quiz, you'll analyze season-by-season data to understand performance trends and milestones.

  4. Apply Strategic Insights -

    You'll apply knowledge of game strategies and coaching decisions that led to memorable victories in Golden Gophers football history.

  5. Evaluate Trivia Mastery -

    Our Minnesota Gophers trivia format will let you self-assess your familiarity with team records, historical facts, and fan culture.

  6. Explore Team Heritage -

    You will explore and articulate key moments from Minnesota Golden Gophers history, strengthening your foundation as a passionate fan.

Cheat Sheet

  1. Origins & Big Ten Legacy -

    The Golden Gophers football team program began in 1882 and joined the Big Ten Conference in 1896, making it one of the oldest in college football team quizzes. Remember "18+82=100" as a playful way to recall their founding centennial spirit. According to the University of Minnesota archives, this timeline anchors all key minnesota golden gophers history.

  2. 1960 National Championship -

    Under Coach Murray Warmath, the Gophers clinched the 1960 national title with an 8 - 2 record, highlighted by a 21 - 14 upset over No. 4 Texas; think "Warmath's Wonders" for a simple mnemonic. NCAA records and university reports mark this as the pinnacle of golden gophers football team success. Review roster notes on stars like QB Sandy Stephens for your golden gophers football quiz prep.

  3. All-Time Rushing Leaders -

    Darrell Thompson (3,320 yards) and Donnell Kirkwood (2,510 yards) top Minnesota's all-time rushing charts - a "3-3-2" mnemonic can lock in Thompson's career total. Institutional stats from the Big Ten Digital Library confirm these figures. Comparing these leaders sharpens your minnesota gophers trivia knowledge on the ground game.

  4. Passing Milestones & Formulas -

    Bryan Cupito's single-season record of 2,914 yards in 2008 illustrates the aerial attack; use "YPA = Total Yards รท Attempts" to measure efficiency. Official box scores on Gophersports.com provide detailed game logs for deeper study. Mastering these stats gives you an edge on any college football team quiz question.

  5. Stadium Legacy & Home Advantage -

    From Memorial Stadium (1924 - 81) to the Metrodome and now TCF Bank Stadium (opened 2009 with 50,805 seats), venue shifts shape game-day energy. School facility archives highlight how capacity and turf changes influence play. Familiarity with these venues enhances your understanding of golden gophers football quiz scenarios.

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