This Saturday, the Texas State Bobcats will face off against the Texas Longhorns at Royal-Memorial Stadium, marking the beginning of the 2026 college football season for both teams. The matchup is particularly significant as it will be Texas State's first game since joining the Pac-12, following a successful 7-6 season capped off by a 41-10 victory over Rice in the Armed Forces Bowl.
Under the leadership of fourth-year head coach GJ Kinne, the Bobcats are looking to build on their previous season's success. This year, they will not only play Texas but also other Texas-based programs such as UTSA, North Texas, and Incarnate Word in nonconference action. The Bobcats are eager to make their mark in the Pac-12, a conference that has undergone considerable changes due to realignment.
The upcoming game against Texas will be a historic encounter, as the two teams have only met once before, nearly a century ago in 1930. In that game, Texas secured a decisive 36-0 victory, a result that has lingered in the memories of both fan bases. This weekend's contest will not only rekindle a long-dormant rivalry but also serve as a litmus test for Texas State as they step onto a larger stage.
One of the standout players for Texas State is quarterback Brad Jackson, who is coming off a record-breaking season. Last year, Jackson threw for an impressive 3,224 yards and 21 touchdowns, achieving a completion percentage of 71.3, which ranked fifth among all qualified quarterbacks in the FBS. Additionally, he set a school record with 17 rushing touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capability. His performance will be crucial as the Bobcats look to establish their offense against a formidable Texas defense.
In the passing game, Jackson will have two reliable targets in Beau Sparks and Chris Dawn Jr., both of whom surpassed 1,000 receiving yards last season. Sparks, who made 84 receptions, is particularly noteworthy as he aims to continue his ascent in the college football landscape. Their contributions will be vital in creating a balanced offensive attack that can challenge the Longhorns.
On the defensive side, Texas State will rely on linebacker Terrence Cooks II, a former Texas recruit who has returned to the state after stints at TCU. Cooks, who recorded 36 tackles last season, is expected to play a pivotal role in anchoring the Bobcats' defense, which allowed an average of 29 points per game last year. His experience and leadership will be essential as Texas State aims to contain the Longhorns' explosive offense.
As the Bobcats prepare for their season opener, the excitement is palpable among players and fans alike. A strong performance against Texas could set the tone for the rest of the season and establish Texas State as a competitive force in the Pac-12. With a mix of returning talent and new challenges ahead, the Bobcats are ready to make their mark in this new chapter of their football history.
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