In their fourth year under head coach Bernie Bierman, the Golden Gophers compiled an undefeated 8–0 record and outscored their opponents by a combined total of 194 to 36.
On September 28, 1935, Minnesota opened its season with a 26–6 victory over North Dakota Agricultural before a crowd of more than 34,000 at Memorial Stadium in Minneapolis.
Despite the victory, the Associated Press, in its account of the game, opined that the Golden Gophers "lacked the flaming spirit to win" that marked the undefeated 1934 Minnesota team.
Early in the second quarter, Nebraska took the lead on a long touchdown run by quarterback Jerry LaNoue and an extra point.
Northwestern took a 13-7 lead at halftime, but sophomore right halfback Clarence Thompson led Minnesota's comeback in the second half.
[14] Tackle Ed Widseth was named an All-American by the Walter Camp Football Foundation, United Press International (UPI), Liberty, Hearst and New York World Telegram.
[14] Tackle Dick Smith was named an All-American by the AP, UPI, New York World Telegram and Look Magazine.
[14] Halfback Sheldon Beise was named an All-American by the American Sports Service and New York Daily Mirror.