Brady & Gophers: A Minnesota Football Legacy

Introduction

The Minnesota Golden Gophers football program has a rich history, dating back to 1882. Over the years, the Gophers have won national championships, produced legendary players, and played in some of the most iconic games in college football history.

One of the most successful eras in Gophers football history came in the 1990s, when the team was led by quarterback Tom Brady. Brady, who went on to become one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, helped lead the Gophers to three Big Ten championships and two Rose Bowl appearances.

Brady's Gophers

Brady arrived at Minnesota in 1995 as a highly touted recruit from San Mateo, California. He quickly became the starting quarterback as a sophomore in 1996 and led the Gophers to a 9-3 record.

In 1997, Brady led the Gophers to their first Big Ten championship since 1967. The Gophers finished the season with a 10-2 record and earned a berth in the Rose Bowl, where they lost to Washington State.

The following year, Brady led the Gophers to another Big Ten championship and a return trip to the Rose Bowl. This time, the Gophers defeated UCLA to win their first Rose Bowl game since 1962.

In 1999, Brady's final season at Minnesota, the Gophers finished with a 10-2 record and won their third Big Ten championship in four years. Brady finished his college career with a 33-9 record as a starter and was selected 199th overall by the New England Patriots in the 2000 NFL Draft.

Legacy

Brady's success at Minnesota helped to revive the Gophers football program. He is widely considered to be one of the greatest players in Gophers history and is a member of the College Football Hall of Fame.

The Gophers have not won a national championship since 1960, but they have remained competitive in the Big Ten under head coach P.J. Fleck. In 2019, the Gophers finished with an 11-2 record and won the Outback Bowl.

Future

The future of Gophers football looks bright. The team has a talented roster of players and a strong coaching staff. With Brady as an inspiration, the Gophers are poised to make another run at a national championship.

Tables