PHOENIX — In a tight back-and-forth game, Minnesota overcame New Mexico and took a 20-17 Rate Bowl victory at Chase Field, extending its bowl win-streak to nine.
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Dec 26, 2025; Phoenix, AZ, USA; Minnesota Gophers defensive lineman Anthony Smith (0) celebrates a play with defensive back Mike Gerald (13) against the New Mexico Lobos during the first half of the Rate Bowl at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
This year’s December showcase was historic, as both teams faced each other for the very first time in their history. While New Mexico had the upper hand for the majority of the first half after two field goal kicks, Minnesota rallied late for the game’s first touchdown to lead 7-6 into halftime.
Despite starting with the ball in the second half, the Golden Gophers couldn’t find the endzone and punted it away. Both teams exchanged the ball during the third quarter, but neither scored as Minnesota continued to lead.
Dec 26, 2025; Phoenix, AZ, USA; New Mexico Lobos quarterback James Laubstein (13) against the Minnesota Gophers during the first half of the Rate Bowl at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
Minnesota added the second touchdown of the game two minutes into the fourth quarter, as running back Darius Tayloy had a five-yard rushing score. It didn’t take long for the Lobos to strike back, as Damon Bankston returned a kickoff for a 100-yard touchdown, followed by a two-point conversion from quarterback Jack Layne to wide receiver Keegan Johnson to tie the game, 14-14.
Neither team was able to capitalize on mistakes in the last moments of regulation, heading into overtime.
Dec 26, 2025; Phoenix, AZ, USA; New Mexico Lobos wide receiver Keagan Johnson (6) makes a catch against Minnesota Gophers defensive back Mike Gerald (13) during the first half of the Rate Bowl at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Rate Bowl’s decisive play was Minnesota’s Drake Lindsey’s 12-yard pass to Jalen Smith, which sent the Golden Gopher faithful into a frenzy. After a review, the call stood and Minnesota kept its bowl streak alive.
The Rate Bowl has fully taken over Chase Field with a pregame DJ and party on Randy Johnson Way in Downtown Phoenix!
Minnesota and New Mexico fans are bringing the party!
📸: @benbliklen #RateBowl #BowlSeason pic.twitter.com/TZfDifBpnN
— Burn City Sports (@BurnCitySports) December 26, 2025
As the sun sets on this year’s historic Rate Bowl and both teams’ seasons come to a close, Chase Field turns back into a baseball diamond as fans await the start of the MLB season.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
Rate Bowl at Chase Field: Minnesota takes narrow lead over New Mexico at halftime
