The University of North Texas (UNT) football team has made history by winning its 11th game of the season. In their regular-season finale, the No. 21 Mean Green dominated Temple, securing a 52-25 victory. This marked the first time in the program’s history that UNT has achieved 11 wins in a season. With this win, they have also clinched a spot in the American Conference Championship game for the first time ever.
Record-Setting Season for the Mean Green
This victory was particularly significant, as it raised UNT’s record to 11-1 overall and 7-1 in the American Conference. The win against Temple was notable for its offensive output, as UNT scored 50 or more points for the seventh time this season. This accomplishment is the highest number of such games in FBS since 2018.
Head coach Eric Morris expressed his pride in the team’s resilience amidst challenges leading up to the game, emphasizing the emotional significance of this achievement for both the players and the coaching staff.
Outstanding Performances
- Drew Mestemaker, redshirt freshman quarterback, completed 20 of 24 passes for 366 yards and three touchdowns.
- Mestemaker set a new American Conference freshman record for passing yards in a season with 3,835.
- Caleb Hawkins, freshman running back, scored four rushing touchdowns during the game, bringing his total to 23 for the season, leading all of college football.
- Two Mean Green receivers, Cameron Dorner and Wyatt Young, surpassed 100 receiving yards in the game, contributing to a potent offensive display.
Aiming for Greater Achievements
The Mean Green will face the No. 22 Tulane in the American Conference Championship on December 5. A win in this game could potentially lead to a spot in the College Football Playoff. Morris highlighted the importance of this upcoming challenge, framing it as a high-stakes moment for the team and the university.
Key Statistics from the Match
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Game Attendance | 24,480 |
| Points Scored | 52 |
| Rushing Touchdowns by Hawkins | 4 |
| Mean Green Season Record for Points | 75 touchdowns (Program Record) |
| Leading Receiver – Cameron Dorner | 4 receptions, 125 yards |
| Leading Receiver – Wyatt Young | 6 receptions, 127 yards |
With an impressive season so far, the Mean Green fans are excited about their team’s promising future as they aim for new heights.
