The penalty helped the Nittany Lions move the ball into Minnesota's territory and ultimately scored via an Allar four-yard touchdown run. However, the Gophers came through with another block, this time on the extra point, and returned it all the way back for two points to give them a 19-16 lead before the half.

The Gophers fell to 6-5, 4-4 Big Ten, while Penn State (10-1, 7-1) stayed alive for a good spot in the expanded College Football Playoff race. Gophers quarterback Max Brosmer had not turned the ball over since September, but he threw his first interception in 206 attempts in the first half. It led to a Penn State field goal.

The Gophers football team is set for its last home game of the season on Saturday when it hosts No. 4 Penn State for a 2:30 p.m. kickoff at Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis. The Gophers will be looking for a bounce-back win after a disappointing loss to Rutgers on Nov.