The North Texas Mean Green (2-0) returns home to DATCU Stadium this Saturday for a 2:30 kickoff against the Washington State Cougars (2-0) in one of the spotlight matchups of the week. For head coach Eric Morris, the goal is clear: lead UNT to its first 3-0 start since 2018 and make a powerful early-season statement.
Last week, UNT showed both grit and resilience in a thrilling 33-30 overtime victory over Western Michigan. Running back Makenzie McGill II carried the load with 102 rushing yards and the game-winning touchdown. In comparison, quarterback Drew Mestemaker delivered a clean performance with 224 passing yards, two touchdowns, and no turnovers. Through two games, UNT’s offense has been efficient and balanced, averaging more than 30 points per contest and converting over 50% of third downs. On the other side of the ball, the defense has clamped down, allowing just 15 points per game and holding opponents to fewer than 90 passing yards per outing.
Washington State enters Denton after a convincing 36-13 victory over San Diego State. Quarterback Jaxon Potter was sharp, throwing for 257 yards and three touchdowns, but the Cougar rushing attack has been inconsistent—averaging just 71 yards per game. Defensively, WSU has impressed against the pass, giving up only 83 yards per contest, though its run defense remains a question mark.
3 Things to Watch
- Mestemaker’s Command – The UNT quarterback has yet to throw an interception this season. If he stays sharp against WSU’s secondary, the Mean Green offense should remain on schedule.
- McGill’s Ground Game – Washington State has struggled against the run, and McGill’s power between the tackles could be the difference-maker in sustaining drives.
- Defensive Intensity Early – Disrupting Potter’s rhythm in the first quarter will be key. Forcing WSU into long third downs could tilt momentum quickly toward UNT.
This is no underdog story—UNT has every reason to feel confident. But a win here would be about more than improving to 3-0. It would be a statement that the Mean Green are ready to rise to a new level in the world of college football. In front of their home fans, the Mean Green have the chance to do more than meet expectations—they have the opportunity to soar.