Albuquerque, New Mexico, December 28, 2025
In a thrilling New Mexico Bowl, the No. 23 North Texas Mean Green defeated the San Diego State Aztecs with a score of 49-47, securing their first bowl win since 2013. Caleb Hawkins led the offensive charge with impressive rushing yards, while San Diego State fought hard with standout performances from their backup quarterback. This victory not only snapped a seven-game bowl losing streak but also marked a record-breaking season for North Texas.
North Texas Triumphs Over San Diego State in New Mexico Bowl
Albuquerque, New Mexico – In a thrilling New Mexico Bowl on December 27, 2025, the No. 23 North Texas Mean Green secured a 49-47 victory over the San Diego State Aztecs, marking their first bowl win since 2013.
Game Highlights
North Texas (12-2) showcased a powerful offensive performance, amassing 618 total yards. Running back Caleb Hawkins led the charge with 197 rushing yards on 30 carries, scoring two touchdowns and adding a 23-yard receiving touchdown. Fellow running back Ashton Gray contributed 152 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 16 carries. Quarterback Drew Mestemaker completed 27 of 47 passes for 250 yards and three touchdowns. Wide receiver Cameron Dormer recorded six receptions for 66 yards, including two touchdown catches.
San Diego State (9-4) kept the game competitive, primarily through the efforts of backup quarterback Bert Emanuel Jr., who rushed for 170 yards and two touchdowns, including a 72-yard run, before leaving the game due to a wrist injury in the second quarter. His replacement, Kyle Crum, added two rushing touchdowns and a passing touchdown but couldn’t fully close the gap.
Scoring Summary
- First Quarter: North Texas led 21-6, with touchdowns from Hawkins (9-yard run), Gray (17-yard run), and Hawkins again (23-yard reception).
- Second Quarter: San Diego State narrowed the deficit to 28-20 at halftime, with Emanuel’s 72-yard touchdown run and Crum’s 3-yard touchdown pass to Jackson Ford.
- Third Quarter: North Texas extended their lead to 42-20, with Hawkins’ 3-yard touchdown run and Dormer’s 1-yard touchdown reception.
- Fourth Quarter: San Diego State mounted a comeback, scoring three touchdowns, including a 63-yard punt return by Nathan Acevedo, but fell short as North Texas held on for the win.
Season Implications
This victory not only ended a seven-game bowl losing streak for North Texas but also capped a historic season, marking the first time the Mean Green have won 12 games in a single season. The win also secured their first bowl victory since the 2013 Heart of Dallas Bowl against UNLV.
Background
The New Mexico Bowl, held annually in Albuquerque, features matchups between teams from the American Athletic Conference and the Mountain West Conference. This year’s game showcased a high-powered North Texas offense against a stout San Diego State defense, making for an exciting and closely contested matchup.
Looking Ahead
With the season concluded, both teams will look to build on their performances. North Texas will aim to continue their upward trajectory, while San Diego State will seek to recover from the loss and prepare for the challenges of the upcoming season.
FAQ
What was the final score of the New Mexico Bowl?
The final score was North Texas 49, San Diego State 47.
Who were the standout players in the game?
Caleb Hawkins of North Texas led with 197 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while San Diego State’s Bert Emanuel Jr. rushed for 170 yards and two touchdowns before leaving due to injury.
When was North Texas’ last bowl victory before this game?
North Texas’ last bowl victory was in the 2013 Heart of Dallas Bowl against UNLV.
What is the significance of this win for North Texas?
This win marked North Texas’ first bowl victory since 2013 and capped a historic season with 12 wins, the most in program history.
Where was the New Mexico Bowl played?
The New Mexico Bowl was played at University Stadium in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | North Texas 49, San Diego State 47 |
| Location | University Stadium, Albuquerque, New Mexico |
| North Texas Record | 12-2 |
| San Diego State Record | 9-4 |
| Notable Players | Caleb Hawkins (North Texas), Bert Emanuel Jr. (San Diego State) |
| Last North Texas Bowl Win | 2013 Heart of Dallas Bowl |
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