Minnesota turns its offense over to Athan Kaliakmanis, after the QB's promising head start

Minnesota’s starting quarterback is different than the previous season opener for the first time in five years.
Minnesota’s starting quarterback is different than the previous season opener for the first time in five years. The good news for the Gophers is the guy they call the “Greek Rifle” got a head start. Athan Kaliakmanis started five games in 2022 for Tanner Morgan. The switch was equal parts injury fill-in and on-the-job training. Kaliakmanis has three years of eligibility remaining. He finished strong by throwing for 319 yards in a win over Wisconsin. That was the program’s highest passing output since 2019. Minnesota opens the season at home against Nebraska on Aug. 31.

Irked by missed plays, Gophers QB Athan Kaliakmanis seeks complete game – Twin Cities

The Gopher football team has the talent – and leadership – to make noise in 2023 - CBS Minnesota

Minnesota quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis plays against Nebraska during an NCAA college football game Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023, in Minneapolis.(AP Photo/Andy Clayton-King Stock Photo - Alamy

Athan Kaliakmanis entering transfer portal: Who will be Gophers QB in 2024? - Sports Illustrated Minnesota Gophers News, Analysis and More

Minnesota quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis (8) signals to teammates during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Nebraska, Thursday, Aug. 31, 2023, in Minneapolis. (AP Photo/Abbie Parr Stock Photo - Alamy

Gophers to start Athan Kaliakmanis at QB, without Tyler Nubin at Wisconsin

2023 College Football WR Rankings: Marvin Harrison Jr. Top the List But Who is Next Up?

The Gopher football team has the talent – and leadership – to make noise in 2023 - CBS Minnesota

The Hoosier Network's team-by-team Big Ten football preview - The Hoosier Network

Big Ten football: Starting quarterback rankings after 2023 Week 1

Poised and calm, Gophers back-up quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis comes through in his cameo

Big Ten football: Michigan State hopes to bounce back after melee