DENTON, TEXAS — The UNT Mean Green are making waves in college football this season, kicking off their campaign with a scorching 5-1 record. In just the second year under head coach Eric Morris, UNT is proving itself as a force to be reckoned with in the American Athletic Conference (AAC). The Mean Green have rattled off three straight wins, including a thrilling 41-37 comeback victory over FAU, and now set their sights on a pivotal showdown against Memphis.
A win against Memphis would mark a significant milestone for the program, placing UNT at 6-1 for the first time since 2018 and only the fourth time since 1968. Not only would it solidify UNT’s status as a conference contender, but it would also underscore the team’s explosive offensive firepower and much-improved defense.
The Untouchable UNT Offense: UNT’s offense has been nothing short of electric, ranking inside the top-15 in the nation across multiple categories, including scoring (tied for 13th), passing (4th), and total offense (5th). The Mean Green stand alongside elite company—Texas, Miami, Ole Miss, Indiana, and Pittsburgh—as one of only six programs to boast such well-rounded offensive stats.
At the heart of this offensive juggernaut is junior quarterback Chandler Morris. Morris has been lights out, leading the AAC in several categories and tying for the FBS lead with 20 touchdown passes. He’s been lethal through the air, ranking 7th in passing yards and 4th in points responsible for. Morris’s ability to spread the ball has been key to UNT’s success, with 19 different players catching passes this season, tied with Georgia for the most in the FBS.
Wide receiver DT Sheffield has emerged as Morris’s favorite target, hauling in seven touchdowns so far. Sheffield’s knack for finding the end zone has been invaluable, and his 443 yards on 34 receptions place him among the top receivers in the conference. He’s not alone in making plays, though—nine different Mean Green players have caught touchdowns, ranking UNT third in the FBS in that category.
Overcoming Adversity in the Rushing Game: Despite dealing with injuries to their top three running backs, UNT’s ground game has not skipped a beat. Over the last three games, the Mean Green have averaged an impressive 6.5 yards per carry and tallied six rushing touchdowns in wins over Wyoming, Tulsa, and FAU. The resilience of UNT’s offensive line and the depth of their rushing attack have kept the offense balanced and explosive.
Halftime Adjustments: A Key to Success: One of the most striking aspects of UNT’s success this season has been their ability to make halftime adjustments. The Mean Green have outscored opponents 22.5 to 10.5 in second halves, a +12 point differential that ranks seventh nationally. This ability to close out games strong has been a hallmark of Morris’s coaching, allowing UNT to pull off comebacks like their FAU victory and build on leads in crucial moments.
An Emerging Defensive Force UNT’s defense has made noticeable strides this year, allowing 20 points or fewer in three games after achieving that mark just once in 2023. Senior cornerback Ridge Texada has anchored the defense, becoming UNT’s all-time leader in pass breakups (PBUs) and passes defended. His 34 career PBUs rank sixth among active FBS players, making him a critical piece of the Mean Green’s defensive puzzle.
Special teams have also made an impact, with UNT blocking two punts this season, a first since 2019. These game-changing plays have provided an extra edge in their victories and contributed to UNT’s strong start.
The Road Ahead As UNT prepares to face Memphis, the stakes are higher than ever. With an offense firing on all cylinders and a defense that continues to improve, the Mean Green have the tools to pull off another statement win. A 6-1 start would be historic, and it would position UNT as a legitimate contender in the AAC and beyond.
The Eric Morris era is officially in full swing, and if the first six games are any indication, UNT football is on the rise. Keep an eye on this team—because they’re just getting started.
