Texas State Wins First Responder Bowl Again

In a thrilling First Responder Bowl, Texas State defeated North Texas 30-28, securing back-to-back eight-win seasons for the first time since 1981-82. Texas State's Lincoln Pare was pivotal, rushing for 143 yards and two touchdowns, including a decisive 73-yard run with just over two minutes left in the game. Jordan McCloud contributed significantly with 307 passing yards and a touchdown. North Texas, led by freshman quarterback Drew Mestemaker, who threw for a record 393 yards in a bowl game for the program, fell short despite a late comeback attempt. Mestemaker filled in for Chandler Morris, who transferred earlier, and managed three touchdowns but also two interceptions. The game was sealed when Texas State's defense, highlighted by a key interception from Treylin Payne, thwarted North Texas's final drive.