Sport
Texas State Edges North Texas in First Responder Bowl Thriller
Jan
Texas State Triumphs Over North Texas in First Responder Bowl Thriller
In a captivating showdown at Gerald J. Ford Stadium on January 3, 2025, the Texas State Bobcats edged past the North Texas Mean Green with a 30-28 victory in the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl. This win marks Texas State’s second consecutive triumph in this bowl, following their victory over Rice in the previous year.
Game Highlights
The Bobcats’ offense was spearheaded by quarterback Jordan McCloud, who threw for 307 yards and a touchdown. Running back Lincoln Pare delivered a standout performance, rushing for a total of 118 yards, including a pivotal 73-yard touchdown run with just over two minutes remaining in the fourth quarter. This crucial play extended Texas State’s lead to 30-21, earning Pare the Most Valuable Player honors for the game.
North Texas demonstrated resilience throughout the contest. Quarterback Josh Mestemaker showcased his dual-threat capabilities, notably with a 70-yard touchdown run that narrowed the deficit to 30-28 late in the game. Despite their efforts, the Mean Green were unable to overcome the Bobcats’ lead in the final moments.
Season Recap
The Mean Green concluded their season with a 6-7 record. Their journey was marked by a strong start, winning five of their first six games, but they faced challenges in the latter half, dropping five of their final six matchups.
Texas State finished the season with an impressive 8-5 record. The Bobcats demonstrated significant growth under head coach G.J. Kinne, particularly in their offensive strategies, culminating in back-to-back First Responder Bowl victories.
Historical Context
This bowl game rekindled a historic rivalry between the two Texas teams, who had not faced each other since 1994. Prior to this matchup, North Texas led the series with a 29-7-3 record. The Bobcats’ recent victory adds a new chapter to this longstanding competition.
Looking Ahead
Both programs aim to build on their experiences from this season. North Texas will focus on addressing the challenges that led to their late-season struggles, while Texas State seeks to capitalize on their momentum and continue their upward trajectory in the Sun Belt Conference.
The First Responder Bowl continues to honor the dedication and service of first responders, providing a platform for thrilling college football action. This year’s edition lived up to expectations, delivering a game that showcased the talent and determination of both teams.
