UNLV Football: First Look At The North Texas Mean Green

[Jonnyeagle]

Overview:

Offense

The Mean Green will seek to build upon a strong running attack behind an experienced offensive line. Having produced the fifth-best rushing offense in 2021, at more than 230 yards per game, North Texas returns three running backs who accounted for almost 1,400 yards and 16 touchdowns last season. Make no mistake: the running game will continue from last year to form the base of their 2022 campaign.

The questions will arise when that ground game is challenged and another way to win is needed. The passing game may require time to develop at quarterback, but the receivers should be able to move the chains as a capable, if not explosive, part of the offense.

If there is stability at quarterback, whether it be Aune or one of the others in a relatively deep quarterbacks room, this team can easily perform well enough to get to a bowl game once again. Built on a strong running game, the offense should be an entertaining team to watch in 2022.

Defense

This defense has had its share of ups and downs, from injuries last year to losses in the transfer portal this year. But North Texas gets a number of players healthy to start the 2022 campaign, players that will need to step up quickly to improve upon a difficult scoring defense (ranked 79th, at 27.5 points per game).

The defensive line will be a point of concern, with losses in the transfer portal, but improved linebacker play should fortify the front seven overall. Senior Quinn Whitlock returns from injury to the “Eagle” position (a linebacker/safety hybrid) that also bolster a defense looking to improve overall.

Any positives in the turnover department will help as well, as the team finished 70th nationally.

Read more:  https://mwwire.com/2022/08/11/unlv-football-first-look-at-the-north-texas-mean-green/