Fleck praises Gophers’ resilience after win over Iowa, turns focus to defending national champs

The celebration of reclaiming Floyd of Rosedale lasted only so long Monday morning for Gophers coach P.J. Fleck.

Two days after the Gophers’ dramatic rivalry victory over Iowa, Fleck reflected on a memorable Homecoming atmosphere, a field-storming crowd, and a hard-fought win before quickly shifting attention toward what he called the toughest stretch of Minnesota’s season.

“We made the play and got the win, and Floyd of Rosedale is back home here in Minnesota,” Fleck said. “He’s in his pen over there in the trophy room, so he’s all set.”

***Click the video box above to watch Fleck’s Monday news conference***

The 13-10 and 12-10 defensive slugfests that have defined recent meetings between the border rivals continued Saturday, but Minnesota found a way to make one more play than Iowa in the closing moments.

Fleck credited hi...