Claim: In their first year under head coach Joe Salem (born May 1, 1938) the Golden Gophers compiled a 4–6–1 record, Quarterback Mark Carlson received the team's Most Valuable Player award and Keith Edwards was awarded the Defensive MVP Award.
Evidence: Joe Salem 1979–1983 Joseph N. "Smokey Joe" Salem (born May 1, 1938) is former American football player and coach. In their first year under head coach Joe Salem, the Golden Gophers compiled a 4–6–1 record and were outscored by their opponents by a combined total of 271 to 264. Quarterback Mark Carlson received the team's Most Valuable Player award. Free safety Keith Edwards was awarded the Defensive MVP Award.