Gophers middle linebacker Cody Poock, the team's leading returning tackler, was ejected from Thursday's season opener in the first quarter for targeting.
The penalty came on a late hit that extended Oregon State's second drive, leading to a touchdown.
Not two hours later, essentially the same penalty reoccured in the third quarter, this time as junior linebacker Jonathan Celestin hit quarterback Darell Garretson in the head as he slid for a first down. Oregon State did not score after this penalty, but the Gophers were then without two of their best linebackers.
The ejections weren't done. Freshman Tai'yon Devers, who had two great first-half strip-sacks, was ejected in the fourth quarter after a targeting hit on Garretson after a pass.
Before Poock's hit, the Beavers appeared ready to punt, with Garretson's incomplete pass. But Poock leveled Jordan Villamin with a hit into the receiver's face mask.
The referees took a minute to review the play and confirmed the ruling on the field. The Gophers bench didn't make much of a protest. Oregon State used the 15-yard penalty as a springboard. After two long gains by running back Ryan Nall, Garretson hit tight end Noah Togiai for a six-yard touchdown.
Celestin was tossed quickly. The review of the play lasted less than a minute, the call was made and Celestin was escorted off the field.
Devers' big first night came to end mid-way through the fourth, leaving the Gophers lacking three key defenders for the final 5 minutes of the game.
