Keys to victory for UTSA to beat North Texas and get back on track

Keys to victory for UTSA to beat North Texas and get back on track originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

UTSA’s season has not gone as planned, but the opportunity for a reset is right in front of them. A rivalry game against North Texas, with both programs fighting to prove they belong in the top half of the American Conference, offers the perfect test. Neither team has beaten an opponent with a winning record this year, but both have something to prove. For the Roadrunners, this weekend is about execution, discipline, and proving that their 61–13 blowout over Rice was not a one-off performance.

1. Start Fast and Attack a Vulnerable Defense

North Texas gave up 63 points to South Florida last week. That is a defense that is searching for stability and pride. For UTSA, the mission is to strike early and make the Mean Green defense question themselves again. From my experience playing at UTSA in the program’s early days, I know how defensive units respond after getting exposed. They want redemption and come out swinging. A quick start by UTSA can rattle that confidence and cause internal frustration on the other sideline.

2. Pressure Drew Mestemaker Relentlessly

UNT quarterback Drew Mestemaker has been effective when given time but becomes erratic under pressure. According to Pro Football Focus, his completion percentage drops by roughly 24 percent when pressured, and all three of his interceptions this season have come in those moments. Defensive coordinator Jess Loepp is known for sending creative looks, and this is the type of game where disguising pressure can lead to takeaways. UTSA’s front must set the tone early.

Antonio Morano/UTSA Athletics

3. Control the Clock

North Texas leads The American, averaging over 43 points per game. That kind of offense can flip a game in a matter of drives. UTSA needs to dictate tempo through long possessions and efficient drives. Sustaining control of the ball keeps UNT’s offense off the field and helps UTSA’s defense stay fresh late in the game. If this turns into a shootout, the Roadrunners could find themselves in a tough spot.

4. Keep McCown and Burke in Rhythm

Quarterback Owen McCown played his best football of the season last week against Rice, and offensive coordinator Justin Burke had his best outing as a play-caller. McCown looked sharp, confident, and in full command of the offense before sitting out the second half. That chemistry must continue in Denton. North Texas will score, so UTSA needs to match pace and keep the playbook open. McCown and Burke’s connection could determine the outcome.

5. Clean Up the Costly Mistakes

Discipline has been an issue for UTSA again this season. Whether it is pre-snap penalties, missed assignments, or drive-killing errors, these moments have added up. Against a high-scoring offense like North Texas, every possession matters. The Roadrunners must stay composed and avoid giving away free yards. Cleaning up those mistakes could be the difference between another setback and a statement win.

The Bottom Line

UTSA does not need to reinvent itself to win this game. It just needs to execute. Start fast, pressure the quarterback, manage the clock, stay aggressive on offense, and eliminate the self-inflicted errors. Do that, and the Roadrunners can walk out of Denton with a win that resets the narrative of their season.

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