MINNEAPOLIS -- The University of Minnesota is apologizing for a bit by its Goldy Gopher mascot poking fun at a praying Penn State football player.
A video made before last Saturday's game at State College shows Penn State defensive end Jerome Hayes kneeling in prayer in the end zone, in front of Minnesota's cheerleaders.
Goldy Gopher then kneels in front of Hayes. When Hayes stands up, so does Goldy. The mascot tries to make some contact, but Hayes ignores him and trots back to the bench.
Minnesota spokesman Dan Wolter says the stunt was "plainly a mistake" and the mascot didn't intent to offend anyone or trivialize religion.
Penn State athletics spokesman Brian Siegrist had no comment Thursday.
Penn State went on to win the game 20-0.
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