North Texas Mean Green at Texas State Bobcats Player Props, Picks and Predictions - 1/3/2025 4:00 PM EST

We have your North Texas Mean Green at Texas State Bobcats prop betting and game preview needs covered as the North Texas Mean Green hit the road to face the Texas State Bobcats.

North Texas Mean Green at Texas State Bobcats Odds Info

Best Moneyline Odds: North Texas Mean Green +310 (DraftKings) / Texas State Bobcats -365 (Caesars)
Best Spread Odds: -10.0 - North Texas Mean Green -110 (DraftKings) / Texas State Bobcats -110 (DraftKings)
Best Total Odds: 68.5 - Under -110 (BetRivers) / Over -105 (ESPN BET)

Game Info

Date: 1/3/2025
Time: 4:00 PM EST
Location: Gerald J. Ford Stadium (Dallas, TX)
TV: ESPN

North Texas Mean Green at Texas State Bobcats Preview

The upcoming clash between the North Texas Mean Green and the Texas State Bobcats promises to be an intriguing matchup, with both teams looking to make a statement in the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl. The Mean Green, led by freshman quarterback Drew Mestemaker, face a challenging task as they navigate a season marked by significant roster changes, particularly in the quarterback position. With Chandler Morris entering the transfer portal, North Texas will rely heavily on Mestemaker, who has shown potential in limited action, throwing for 69 yards across four games.

On the other side, the Texas State Bobcats, under the leadership of head coach GJ Kinne, have managed to maintain roster stability, which could prove advantageous in this bowl game. The Bobcats have been bolstered by the impressive performances of running back Ismail Mahdi, who, despite a slight dip in production in 2024, remains a key offensive weapon. Mahdi's ability to contribute both on the ground and through the air makes him a versatile threat that the Mean Green defense will need to contain.

Texas State's offensive line, though missing Alex Harkey who has entered the transfer portal, has been a solid unit throughout the season, contributing to the team's 7-5 record. The Bobcats' defense will also play a crucial role, as they aim to disrupt North Texas's offensive rhythm and capitalize on any mistakes made by the inexperienced Mestemaker.

With the game set to take place at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas, the Bobcats will have the advantage of playing in familiar territory. This, combined with their relatively stable roster and the dynamic play of Mahdi, positions Texas State as a formidable opponent for the Mean Green. As both teams prepare for this pivotal matchup, the stage is set for an exciting contest that will test the resilience and adaptability of both squads.

North Texas Mean Green at Texas State Bobcats Pick: Texas State Bobcats Moneyline

The Texas State Bobcats are poised to secure a victory in the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl against the North Texas Mean Green, and several factors make them the clear favorite. First and foremost, the Bobcats have maintained a stable roster under the guidance of head coach GJ Kinne, which is a significant advantage in the ever-changing landscape of college football. This stability is particularly evident in their offensive lineup, where standout running back Ismail Mahdi continues to be a pivotal player. Despite a slight dip in his 2024 production, Mahdi's versatility as both a runner and receiver makes him a formidable threat that the Mean Green defense will struggle to contain.

In contrast, North Texas faces considerable challenges, particularly at the quarterback position. With Chandler Morris entering the transfer portal, the Mean Green will rely on freshman quarterback Drew Mestemaker, who has limited experience with only 69 passing yards across four games. This lack of experience could be a critical weakness, especially against a Texas State defense that will be eager to capitalize on any mistakes.

Moreover, the Bobcats' offensive line, although missing Alex Harkey, has been a solid unit throughout the season, contributing to their respectable 7-5 record. Playing at Gerald J. Ford Stadium in Dallas, Texas, also gives the Bobcats a home-field advantage, further bolstering their chances of success. With these factors in mind, Texas State's combination of roster stability, offensive prowess, and home advantage makes them the logical pick to win this matchup.

North Texas Mean Green at Texas State Bobcats Top Player Prop Picks

Ismail Mahdi Over 100.5 Rushing Yards Rushing Yards -110 (DraftKings)

Ismail Mahdi has been a standout performer for the Texas State Bobcats, leading the nation in all-purpose yards in 2023 and continuing to be a key offensive weapon in 2024. Despite a slight dip in his production this past season, Mahdi still managed to rush for 991 yards, showcasing his ability to be a consistent threat on the ground. With North Texas facing significant challenges, particularly at the quarterback position, the Bobcats are likely to lean heavily on Mahdi's rushing prowess to control the game. Given his track record and the Mean Green's potential defensive vulnerabilities, Mahdi is well-positioned to surpass the 100.5 rushing yards mark in this matchup.

Drew Mestemaker Under 200.5 Passing Yards Passing Yards -110 (Caesars)

Freshman quarterback Drew Mestemaker is set to lead the North Texas Mean Green in the absence of Chandler Morris, who has entered the transfer portal. Mestemaker has limited experience, having thrown for just 69 yards across four games this season. This lack of experience, combined with the pressure of a bowl game setting, could hinder his ability to effectively move the ball through the air. Additionally, the Texas State defense will be eager to capitalize on any mistakes made by the inexperienced signal-caller. As a result, it is likely that Mestemaker will struggle to reach the 200.5 passing yards threshold against a Bobcats team that has maintained roster stability and defensive discipline.

Ismail Mahdi Over 1.5 Total Touchdowns Total Touchdowns +150 (BetRivers)

Ismail Mahdi's versatility as both a runner and receiver makes him a dual-threat option for the Texas State Bobcats, and his ability to find the end zone will be crucial in this bowl game. Mahdi scored six total touchdowns in 2024, and his knack for making big plays in crucial moments cannot be overlooked. With the Bobcats playing in familiar territory at Gerald J. Ford Stadium and facing a North Texas team that has undergone significant roster changes, Mahdi is poised to be a focal point of the offense. His dynamic playmaking ability and the Mean Green's defensive challenges make the over on 1.5 total touchdowns an enticing proposition.