North Texas started the 2022 college football season with a Conference USA win over UTEP in front of a sold out Sun Bowl. Mean Green starting quarterback Austin Aune moved to 3-0 in his career against the Miners and was named C-USA Offensive Player of the Year for his efforts. Aune completed 16 of 29 passes for 236 yards and three touchdowns. He didn't commit a turnover and he wasn't sacked in the win. The start on Saturday was Aune's first opening day start since his senior season at Argyle High School back in 2011. Aune played minor league baseball before returning to football. 

North Texas was 5 for 5 in the red zone in the 31-13 win over UTEP. Aune completed passes to eight different receivers. He's thrown for 778 yards, nine touchdowns, and no interceptions in his three-game career against UTEP. North Texas returns to the field Saturday with a home game against future AAC opponent SMU. The Mustangs are playing their first game under new head coach Rhett Lashlee. The Mean Green return to conference play Oct. 1 at home against FAU.