Tim Brewster is proving to be a gambler. And why not? At this point, the Gophers have nothing to lose.

Brewster's decision to go for it on 4th-and-4 with the Gophers leading by four in the fourth quarter changed the complexion of Minnesota's game against Bowling Green. And, perhaps, the Gophers' outlook for the remainder of this season.

Quarterback Adam Weber converted that fourth down with a pass, and on the next play hit Eric Decker for a 28-yard touchdown. It was the first of three fourth-quarter touchdowns and clearly carried the greatest impact in a 42-17 victory over the Falcons. Minnesota is now 2-0, doubling its win total from last year.

"We made a decision before we left Minneapolis that we were coming here to win a football game," Brewster said. "Our team did the things necessary -- the things that good football teams do -- to win the game."

Including forcing four turnovers and converting them to touchdowns. Including exacting a bit of revenge for last year's 32-31 loss to BG in overtime. The Gophers still have plenty of work to do and are miles from contention in the Big Ten, but at least they can confirm they are on the right track.

"I said we've taken the steps necessary to be an improved football team," Brewster said. "I think it's pretty evident that we are."

SEASON RECAP

Minnesota 31, Northern Illinois 27: Duane Bennett scored on a one-yard plunge with 22 seconds left to send the Gophers to a season-opening victory. Bennett scored a pair of touchdowns on the day and helped Minnesota avoid losing despite choking away an 11-point second-half lead.

Minnesota 42, Bowling Green 17: Quarterback Adam Weber threw for 233 yards and accounted for four touchdowns, and the Gophers put the game away with a 21-point avalanche in the fourth quarter. Minnesota turned four BG turnovers in the second half into touchdowns, blowing open what had been a tight game.

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