North Texas Secures Historic Bowl Win Over San Diego State, 49-47

BREAKING: North Texas has achieved a historic milestone, clinching its first bowl victory since 2013 with a thrilling 49-47 win over San Diego State in the New Mexico Bowl on December 16, 2023, at University Stadium in Albuquerque, NM. This victory marks a significant moment for the Mean Green, ending a seven-game bowl losing streak.

The game showcased the brilliance of freshman Caleb Hawkins, who scored three touchdowns and set a new NCAA record for touchdowns by a freshman, bringing his season total to 29. Hawkins rushed for 198 yards and caught three passes for 25 yards and another touchdown, solidifying his position as a standout player in this pivotal matchup.

Interim coach Drew Svoboda praised Hawkins’ performance as vital in securing the win against a formidable San Diego State defense, which had been allowing only 12.6 points per game prior to this game. The Mean Green entered the contest averaging 44.8 points per game, demonstrating their offensive prowess throughout the season.

The game was a nail-biter, with the Mean Green leading 28-20 at halftime after a wild first half that featured a combined 652 yards of offense. North Texas started strong, scoring on their first four possessions, including a trick play that led to an early touchdown.

After San Diego State clawed back to make it a one-score game at 42-34, North Texas responded decisively with a 31-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Drew Mestemaker to Cameron Dorner, sealing the game late in the fourth quarter.

“This victory is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our players,” said Svoboda. “We faced a tough challenge and came through when it mattered most.”

North Texas concludes the season with a remarkable 12-2 record, setting a program record for wins in a season. This victory also marks only the fourth bowl win in the history of the program and comes just weeks after the departure of coach Eric Morris, who took the head coaching job at Oklahoma State.

The future remains uncertain for several key players, as questions loom about the return of those with eligibility remaining. Mestemaker hinted at considering his future after the game, while other players have already announced intentions to enter the transfer portal.

With the Mean Green’s victory, the program enters a new era under new head coach Neal Brown, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting future following this landmark season.

This thrilling win not only cements North Texas’s place in college football history but also sparks renewed hope and enthusiasm among fans and players alike. Stay tuned for more updates as the Mean Green look to build on this momentum moving forward.