North Texas Aims for Record Win as Temple Tries to Bounce Back

DENTON, Texas — The North Texas Mean Green football team is seeking a program-record 11th win when they host the Temple Owls on Friday. The game is crucial for North Texas, who is looking to secure a spot in the American conference championship game.

The Mean Green, boasting a 10-1 record, are on a five-game winning streak. Their latest victory came on Saturday night, where they defeated Rice 56-24. Quarterback Drew Mestemaker threw for 469 yards and three touchdowns while also rushing for a score. Running back Caleb Hawkins contributed significantly with 97 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 20 carries.

“Our team feels confident heading into this game,” Mestemaker said after the game against Rice. “We know what’s at stake and we’re prepared to give it our all.”

On the opposing side, the Temple Owls, with a record of 5-6, are in desperate need of a win to achieve bowl eligibility. They suffered a defeat against Tulane on Saturday, ending the game 37-13. Temple quarterback Evan Simon threw for 168 yards and two touchdowns, but the team’s running game faltered, gaining only 20 yards.

“We need to regroup and find our rhythm again,” Simon said after the tough loss to Tulane. “Every game matters at this point, and we still have a chance to turn things around.”

Adding to the dynamics of the game, North Texas announced on Tuesday that Eric Morris will leave to become the new head coach at Oklahoma State at the end of the season. The Mean Green have not won a conference title since they clinched the Sun Belt championship in 2004.

North Texas holds a 2-0 all-time record against Temple, including a recent 24-17 victory on November 30.

The Mean Green’s path is simple: win against Temple to reach the championship game. “It’s a win-and-in scenario for us,” said head coach Morris. “We just have to focus and execute.”

Fans are eager to tune in for the anticipated matchup, as both teams aim for their respective goals this Friday.