DENTON, TEXAS — North Texas kicks off the 2025 season with a home matchup against Lamar, the first meeting since 2017. The Mean Green lead the all-time series 5-2, including a 59-14 victory in the last matchup, which marked UNT’s 500th program win.
Redshirt freshman Drew Mestemaker gets the start at quarterback after posting 448 total yards in last season’s bowl game. He’ll be backed by a high-powered offense that ranked third nationally in total yards and fourth in passing in 2024. Key contributors returning include WR Dalton Carnes and a veteran offensive line featuring Gabe Blair, Fatafehi Vailea, and Braydon Nelson.
On defense, UNT introduces coordinator Skyler Cassity, who arrives from Sam Houston with six transfers, including CB Da’Veawn Armstead and LB Trey Fields. Returning defenders like S Evan Jackson and LB Shane Whitter add stability, while the Mean Green’s special teams remain among the nation’s best.
The matchup will hinge on UNT’s explosive offense against Lamar’s defense. Last year, North Texas led FBS in one-play scoring drives and plays of 70+ yards, and the Mean Green will look to replicate that quick-strike capability from the opening snap.
With seven home games for the first time in program history and 465 career starts on the roster, UNT is primed to start 2025 with a statement win, set the tone for the season, and reaffirm dominance in the series against Lamar.
