DALLAS — In a thrilling finish to the First Responder Bowl, Texas State triumphed over North Texas with a score of 30-28. Jordan McCloud delivered an impressive performance, passing for 307 yards and one touchdown, while Lincoln Pare shone with a pivotal 73-yard touchdown run in the final moments of the game. This victory marked Texas State’s eighth win of the season, a notable achievement as it represents their second consecutive season with eight wins, a feat not accomplished since 1981-82.
North Texas, finishing the season at 6-7, aimed for their first bowl victory since the 2014 Heart of Dallas Bowl. Pare took the spotlight with a total of 21 carries, amassing 143 yards and two touchdowns. His initial touchdown came from one yard out, concluding a methodical 13-play, 75-yard drive that consumed almost seven minutes, propelling Texas State to a 23-14 lead midway through the third quarter.
The score remained stagnant until North Texas narrowed the gap with a short touchdown run by Makenzie McGill, making it 23-21 with 3:20 remaining in the game. Quickly responding, Pare executed his long touchdown run just two plays later, allowing Texas State to extend their lead to nine points after a successful extra point.
In a valiant effort, North Texas quarterback Drew Mestemaker responded with his own remarkable 70-yard run, bringing the Mean Green back to within two points with only 1:49 left on the clock. After taking possession again at their 8-yard line with 40 seconds left, the North Texas offense faced mounting pressure. Texas State defensive end Kalil Alexander delivered a crucial sack on the first down, allowing the clock to wind down, while linebacker Treylin Payne ended the game with an interception over the middle.
Mestemaker, making his first career start, threw for an impressive 393 yards, recording two touchdowns alongside two interceptions. His performance set a new record for the most passing yards in a bowl game in North Texas history. Additionally, he contributed to the team’s efforts on the ground with nine carries for 55 yards and a touchdown. The freshman stepped in for Chandler Morris, who had an outstanding season throwing for 3,774 yards and 31 touchdowns before transferring to Virginia.
This nail-biting contest showcased the resiliency and determination of both teams, with Texas State celebrating a significant bowl victory and North Texas hopeful for future success after a strong season.
