![Minnesota Head Coach P.J. gave a hug to Minnesota's running back Rodney Smith before the Gophers took on the Buffalo Bulls at TCF Bank Stadium, Thursday, August 31, 2017 in Minneapolis, MN. ] ELIZABETH FLORES ï liz.flores@startribune.com](https://arc.stimg.co/startribunemedia/5GFFBJRSJGDCZ5ME46K5KGGAAA.jpg?&w=1080)
OFFENSIVE MVP
Tyler Johnson, WR, Gophers
The sophomore and former Minneapolis North standout had a breakout game, catching six passes for 141 yards — all in the first half — including a 61-yard TD catch-and-run from Conor Rhoda in the first quarter.
DEFENSIVE MVP
Antoine Winfield Jr., DB, Gophers
The sophomore, who battled a hamstring injury during training camp, showed his value to the defense by making seven tackles (five solo), breaking up two passes (one a long flea-flicker) and blocking a field-goal attempt.
BY THE NUMBERS
10 Points for the margin of victory — much closer than the four-touchdown point spread.
2 Misses by field-goal kicker Emmit Carpenter, equaling his 2016 season miss total (22 of 24).
11 Catches for Buffalo wide receiver Anthony Johnson, who had 140 yards receiving and the Bulls' touchdown.
3.5 Yards per carry for Shannon Brooks and Rodney Smith, combined: 41 carries for 145 yards.
