Cougars vs. Mean Green: Undefeated Showdown Lights Up Denton
Two undefeated teams will collide this Saturday when Washington State travels to Denton for its first road test of the season against North Texas. Both squads enter the matchup at 2-0, bringing momentum and confidence into what promises to be a high-energy showdown at DATCU Stadium. For the Cougars, it’s an opportunity to prove their early-season dominance can travel outside Pullman. For the Mean Green, it’s a chance to defend home turf and earn national respect against a Pac-12 opponent.
Cougars Building Momentum Behind Rogers and Potter
Washington State heads into its first road game of the season carrying confidence and momentum. Under second-year head coach Jimmy Rogers, the Cougars have started strong with a 13-10 win over Idaho, followed by a 36–13 victory over San Diego State. Redshirt sophomore quarterback Jaxon Potter has been the steady hand guiding the offense, completing 28 of 42 passes for 257 yards and three touchdowns. The Cougars’ defense has also flexed, holding opponents under 20 points in both contests while creating opportune turnovers. Saturday’s game in Denton will be a true assessment of how well WSU’s early-season form translates away from Pullman.
North Texas: Mean Green’s Dominant Start
The Mean Green are off to a blazing 2-0 start, highlighted by a 51–0 demolition of Lamar in their opener, where they piled up 462 total yards and notched their first shutout since 2003. Quarterback Drew Mestemaker shone with 329 passing yards, three touchdowns, and a rushing score, then followed it up with 224 yards and two more TDs in a thrilling 33-30 overtime win over the Western Michigan Broncos. Running back Nic Smith has anchored the ground attack with his physical, downhill style that forces defenses to adjust, opening up passing lanes for Mestemaker. While the defense has surrendered chunk plays, it has stiffened in the red zone, turning potential touchdowns into field goals. With Smith’s power and Mestemaker’s poise, North Texas enters its matchup against Washington State eager to prove it can compete beyond the AAC and make a national statement.
Where This Battle Will Be Won or Lost
For Washington State, the biggest takeaway is the emergence of Jaxon Potter’s composure as a young leader and the defense’s ability to set the tone early. If the Cougars continue winning the turnover battle, they’ll be tough to stop. On the North Texas side, the takeaway is their offensive versatility, as they’ve shown they can win with both the run and the pass when needed. However, the Mean Green will need to clean up defensive lapses against WSU’s offense that thrives on rhythm and pace. With two unbeaten teams clashing under the Texas lights, expect high energy, quick tempo, and a game that could swing on a few key possessions. Nat’s Prediction: I see Washington State pulling out a competitive but decisive win, leaning on Potter’s efficiency and a stingy defense. The Cougars leave Denton with a 31-21 victory and a 3–0 record.
