After what could be considered a more encouraging outcome against the reigning national champions Hoosiers to kick off the 2026 season, North Texas heads into the home opener against a highly touted UNLV squad with higher expectations for a 3 point home underdog.

The burning questions in the offseason were how would Neal Brown be able to replace the vast talent on both sides to the ball to stay competitive. 

It seems like a few of those position questions were answered, especially up front on both sides of the ball, as North Texas was able to show signs of dominance toward a loaded IU front. 

Replacing a talent like Caleb Hawkins seemed daunting, but after the splash portal addition in former WVU running back Jahiem White, his flashes of excellence were promising.

Racking up 97 total yards offensively and the teams lone touchdown, White looked like a well oiled machine. Nobody would’ve thought he missed the entire season.

UNLV has slightly struggled early on against the run, allowing around 156 rushing yards in 2 games on average, this is an opportunity for the Mean Green running game to get established.

Tayven Jackson seemed to not miss much of a beat either, and seems to have the wide receiver targets all over the field. 

Jackson having the ability to use his legs, and what seems like fairly accurate field vision to make successful RPOs against a defense, there seems to be less worry at that position for Mean Green fans.

Defensively down now three cornerbacks this time Chase Canada on top of Jenkins and Johnson from fall camp injuries, one safety in Taye Seymore, there is some room for concern. 

The comparisons from last weeks looks against star receiver Charlie Becker don’t do justice to a still talented room. Watching out for McNeese transfer Brandon Jones who has the leader capability and can create turnovers.

It’s not just a big one for North Texas, as UNLV starting quarterback Jackson Arnold is back in his hometown after his standout career at Denton Guyer. Arnold has been a more inconsistent player over his first few stops, but seems to have fallen into a groove under Dan Mullen at UNLV.

Reuniting with several UNT players who were his teammates at Guyer in WR Josiah Martin, WR Grayson O’Bara, and OL Willie Goodacre create some fun storylines that aren’t just CFP style implications for both teams.

Arnold’s ability to also use his legs makes his game dangerous. Definitely another great test for the Mean Green defense, especially at linebackers where they have the most experience with guys like Barker and Alexander.

The spread has changed fairly recently, dropping from a consistent +6.5 to around +3. For UNT, a win would go a long way and be considered the first signature win in the Brown era. 

Even with the homecoming and talent for the Rebels, UNT takes advantage offensively and wins 30-17. Taking a massive step in the right direction heading into an even bigger matchup against Texas State next weekend.