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Minnesota safety, former Auburn, Iowa State transfer Craig McDonald re-enters NCAA Transfer Portal

Grant Grubbsby:Grant Grubbs•10/13/24•

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Minnesota Helmet
Oct 6, 2018; Minneapolis, MN, USA; A general view of the Minnesota Golden Gophers helmets before a game against the Iowa Hawkeyes at TCF Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jesse Johnson-USA TODAY Sports

Minnesota safety Craig McDonald has entered the NCAA Transfer Portal, per On3’s Pete Nakos. This season is McDonald’s second with the Golden Gophers.

McDonald began his collegiate career at Iowa State, where he spent two seasons, making 17 appearances and three starts. McDonald’s 2021 campaign with the Cyclones was perhaps the best yet of his career.

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In the standout season, McDonald appeared in all 13 games for Iowa State, tallying 41 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss and two interceptions. After the 2021 season, McDonald entered the transfer portal and ultimately joined Auburn.

However, after only playing in two games for the Tigers, McDonald transferred to Minnesota in 2023. In his debut season with the Golden Gophers, McDonald made six appearances and notched two tackles. After seeing limited action on the field again this season, McDonald has entered the transfer portal.

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Craig McDonald played high school football at Minnehaha Academy (MN), where he was a three-star prospect, according to the On3 Industry Ranking. McDonald was the No. 836 overall player and No. 58 safety in the 2020 recruiting cycle.

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For his efforts under head coach Chris Goodwin at Minnehaha Academy, McDonald was named a second-team all-state selection in 2019. He finished his senior campaign with 41 tackles, 3.0 TFL and four interceptions.

Minnesota extends win streak with victory over UCLA

On Saturday, Minnesota picked up its second straight win with a 21-17 triumph over UCLA. The Golden Gophers’ defense was key in the win, picking off UCLA quarterback Ethan Garbers three times. Minnesota’s defense boasts 13 interceptions this season, tied for the most with UNLV and California.

UCLA was flustered all night long, committing 10 penalties for 105 total yards lost. Of course, Minnesota’s defense wasn’t the sole reason it won. Golden Gophers QB Max Brosmer completed 26-of-his-37 pass attempts for 193 yards and two touchdowns.

Daniel Jackson was Brosmer’s primary target. Jackson hauled in a team-high 10 receptions for 93 yards in the win. Minnesota will enjoy a bye this week before facing off against Maryland on Oct. 26.