The season opener for the Minnesota Golden Gophers was inauspicious: running back Darius Taylor was ruled out of Thursday night’s game against North Carolina because of a leg injury he picked up in practice two weeks ago. This news came not only as a blow to Taylor but also to the Gophers, who were getting ready for their first game of the season.
Darius Taylor’s Injury and Impact
Notably absent was Darius Taylor. The injury, sustained during practice, put Minnesota behind the eight ball in terms of resorting to an alternative game plan without their featured running back. The junior tailback ran for 799 yards last season, despite missing games with leg injuries. His per-game average of 133 yards would have led the nation if he qualified for enough attempts.
Minnesota head coach P.J. Fleck acknowledged with concern and understanding. “He was close to being out there,” Fleck said. He acknowledged Darius Taylor’s eagerness to play and how much the running back wanted to be on the field. The medical staff, too, plays an important role in making decisions based on what works best for the players’ health in the long run.
Past Performance of Taylor
Darius Taylor had a great season last year, considering how the season went. The fact that he was able to gain such high yardage over fewer games showed he had potential. His injury set him back last season, but fans were looking forward with high hopes for the season to come. With Taylor not playing, the Gophers employed an experienced transfer from Oklahoma, Marcus Major. Major picked up the mantle quite well, with 20 carries for 73 yards and a touchdown in his first outing in Minnesota. He added a 27-yard reception to complete his sets of skills and talent that he has to fill in during Taylor’s absence.
Gophers Adjust After Losing Taylor
The problems for the Gophers didn’t stop on offense. Starting safety Darius Green also remained out while hurt, adding to the number of changes Minnesota needed to make on defense, and thereby changing the game plan overall. As the season goes along, the Gophers will have to adapt to life without Taylor and perhaps other hurtling players. The decisions of the medical staff will be big in terms of how the injuries are managed and how players like Taylor are brought back to full strength without sustaining a worse injury.
It means back to the drawing board for Minnesota, who have to readjust without their key players. How to replace Darius Taylor and Green will be strategized by the coaching staff, while the team will try to build on the efforts that players like Marcus Major and Jordan Nubin provided.
Yes, it was only the beginning of the Gophers’ season, but it was a setback nonetheless, one that would still allow time for adjustment and improvement. All anyone—fans, and analysts alike—can do for now is to watch closely as Minnesota navigates the challenges ahead and how quickly Darius Taylor and other injured players are able to take to the field again.
For More Great Content
Are you desiring top-tier content that covers everything? From thrilling sports and intoxicating entertainment news to gaming tips and professional betting advice, Total Apex covers it all. Delve into our no-fluff articles to stay ahead of the game with the latest sports action, uncover the hottest trends in entertainment, and get the latest scoops in the gaming industry that will take your experiences to the next level.
Finally, our betting advice will give you a decisive edge over the competition and increase your odds of beating the books. Whether you’re looking to stay updated or gain a competitive edge, Total Apex is your one-stop shop for all things compelling and relevant. Don’t forget we cover fantasy sports, too!
Check out all our sites: Total Apex Sports, Total Apex Fantasy Sports, Total Apex Entertainment, Total Apex Sports Bets, and Total Apex Gaming. Out of the ashes of obscurity will rise a beast. Always remember to respect the hustle! Follow us on Twitter, @TotalApexSports, to stay informed.
