Sun Oct 13 04:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Minnesota Gophers Coach PJ Fleck Credits ‘Antidote of Confidence’ for Upset Win Over USC

**MINNEAPOLIS, MN** – Minnesota Golden Gophers head coach PJ Fleck has revealed a unique strategy behind his team’s surprising upset win over the USC Trojans this weekend.

Fleck, known for his motivational tactics, shared that he administered a “confidence antidote” to his players following their tough loss to Michigan last week. The antidote, which consisted of Sprite capsules, was intended to boost the players’ morale and belief in themselves.

“The antidote, we call it the antidote, the antidote this week was all confidence,” Fleck explained. “Belief, confidence. My pregame speech was 10 seconds, ‘Let it rip!’ That’s it. That’s all I told them. And they did, they let it rip.”

Fleck’s unorthodox approach seems to have worked. The Gophers, who had been on the ropes against Michigan in a close loss, displayed renewed confidence and energy against USC, securing an impressive victory.

The game against Michigan, which saw Minnesota almost pull off a comeback win before an offsides penalty nullified a crucial onside kick, had seemingly affected the team’s confidence. The call sparked controversy and prompted Fleck to request a change in officiating procedures for onside kicks, a change that was ultimately approved by the NCAA.

While some might attribute the Gophers’ success to the “antidote”, Fleck remains focused on the team’s belief in their own abilities. He pointed to their previous tight games against North Carolina and Iowa, highlighting the team’s resilience and potential even in defeat.

The “confidence antidote” story adds another layer of intrigue to Fleck’s coaching style and demonstrates his commitment to finding unique ways to motivate his players. The Gophers, now riding a wave of momentum, will hope to carry their newfound confidence into the rest of the season.

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