Darius Taylor Ruled Out for Gophers Season Opener

Minnesota Running Back to Miss Game Against UNC

Taylor Injured in Practice

Minnesota running back Darius Taylor has been ruled out for the season opener against the North Carolina Tar Heels on September 1st. Taylor suffered a lower-body injury in practice and will not be available to play.

Taylor is a key part of the Gophers' offense and his absence will be a big blow. The junior running back rushed for 606 yards and five touchdowns last season. He also caught 21 passes for 151 yards and two touchdowns.

With Taylor out, the Gophers will likely turn to Trey Potts and Ky Thomas to carry the load at running back. Potts rushed for 473 yards and three touchdowns last season, while Thomas rushed for 238 yards and two touchdowns.

The Gophers are hoping to start the season strong with a win over the Tar Heels. North Carolina is a tough opponent, but the Gophers will be confident in their ability to win without Taylor.

What does this mean for the Gophers?

• The Gophers will be without their leading rusher from last season.
• Trey Potts and Ky Thomas will likely be the primary running backs.
• The Gophers will need to find a way to replace Taylor's production on the field.

What's next for Darius Taylor?

• Taylor will likely miss the entire 2023 season.
• He will need to rehab his injury and get back to full strength.
• Taylor could return to the Gophers next season and be a key part of their offense.