NASHVILLE, Dec. 31 (UPI) -- Marion Barber ran for 187 yards and a touchdown Friday and Minnesota turned back a late challenge to down Alabama in the Music City Bowl, 20-16.
Laurence Maroney added 103 rushing yards for the Golden Gophers. Alabama gave up two 100-yard rushing efforts in the same game after having not given up any during the regular season.
Barber and Maroney combined for 67 rushing attempts as Minnesota (7-5) won its third straight bowl game. The Gophers lost five of their final six games in the regular season.
Both of Alabama's touchdowns were scored by Le'Ron McClain, but the Crimson Tide fell to 6-6 for its second straight non-winning season. It is the first time that has happened in 47 years.
With time winding down, Alabama reached the Minnesota 19-yard line. But the Crimson Tide could pick up just four yards in four downs and Minnesota ran out the clock.
