40 Facts About UNT Football

UNT Football: A Rich History

The University of North Texas (UNT) football team has a storied past filled with memorable moments, legendary players, and significant achievements. Here are some fascinating facts about UNT football that will give you a deeper appreciation for the Mean Green.

1. UNT's football program began in 1913, making it over a century old.
2. The team is known as the "Mean Green," a nickname that originated in the 1960s.
3. UNT's mascot is Scrappy the Eagle, who has been rallying fans since 1950.
4. The Mean Green play their home games at Apogee Stadium, which opened in 2011.
5. UNT has won 24 conference championships in its history.
6. The team has appeared in 12 bowl games, with a record of 3-9.
7. UNT's first bowl appearance was in the 1946 Optimist Bowl, where they defeated Pacific University.
8. The Mean Green's colors are green and white, symbolizing growth and purity.
9. UNT has had 19 head coaches since the program's inception.
10. Hayden Fry, who later became famous at Iowa, coached UNT from 1973 to 1978.

Memorable Players and Coaches

UNT football has produced some remarkable talent over the years. Here are some standout players and coaches who have left their mark on the program.

11. "Mean" Joe Greene, a Hall of Fame defensive tackle, played for UNT from 1966 to 1968.
12. Greene was a key player in the Pittsburgh Steelers' "Steel Curtain" defense.
13. Abner Haynes, a running back, played for UNT in the late 1950s and went on to a successful AFL career.
14. Haynes was the AFL Rookie of the Year in 1960.
15. Steve Ramsey, a quarterback, set multiple passing records at UNT in the 1960s.
16. Ramsey played in the NFL for the New Orleans Saints and Denver Broncos.
17. Hayden Fry, a legendary coach, led UNT to two Missouri Valley Conference titles.
18. Fry's innovative offensive schemes influenced many future coaches.
19. Seth Littrell, the current head coach, has revitalized the program since taking over in 2016.
20. Littrell led UNT to three consecutive bowl games from 2016 to 2018.

Significant Games and Moments

Throughout its history, UNT football has had its share of unforgettable games and moments. Here are some highlights that stand out.

21. In 1974, UNT defeated Tennessee State 21-14 in the Grantland Rice Bowl.
22. The 2002 New Orleans Bowl saw UNT defeat Cincinnati 24-19 for their first bowl win in over 50 years.
23. UNT's 2013 victory over Ball State in the Heart of Dallas Bowl was a thrilling 36-14 win.
24. In 2017, UNT scored a last-second touchdown to beat UTSA 29-26.
25. The Mean Green's 2018 win over Arkansas was highlighted by a trick play punt return touchdown.
26. UNT's 2019 victory over Houston was their first win over a Power Five team in over 40 years.
27. The 2020 season opener against Houston Baptist featured a record-setting performance by quarterback Jason Bean.
28. UNT's 2021 win over UTEP secured their first bowl eligibility in three years.
29. The 2022 season saw UNT clinch a spot in the Conference USA Championship game.
30. UNT's rivalry with SMU, known as the "Safeway Bowl," is one of the oldest in Texas.

Records and Achievements

UNT football has set numerous records and achieved significant milestones. Here are some of the most notable ones.

31. UNT's all-time leading rusher is Patrick Cobbs, with 4,050 yards from 2001 to 2005.
32. The single-season rushing record is held by Jamario Thomas, who ran for 1,801 yards in 2004.
33. Mason Fine is UNT's all-time leading passer, with 12,505 yards from 2016 to 2019.
34. Fine also holds the record for most touchdown passes in a season, with 31 in 2017.
35. UNT's single-game rushing record is 291 yards, set by Lance Dunbar in 2011.
36. The Mean Green's largest margin of victory was a 92-0 win over Dallas Naval Air Station in 1945.
37. UNT's longest winning streak is 10 games, achieved in 2003.
38. The Mean Green have had 11 players selected in the NFL Draft.
39. UNT's highest NFL Draft pick was "Mean" Joe Greene, selected fourth overall in 1969.
40. The Mean Green have retired three jerseys: #75 for Joe Greene, #28 for Abner Haynes, and #12 for Steve Ramsey.

UNT Football: A Legacy of Passion and Pride

UNT football has a rich history filled with memorable moments and dedicated fans. From its early beginnings to the present day, the team has shown resilience and determination. Players and coaches have worked tirelessly to build a program that the university and its supporters can be proud of. The Mean Green spirit is alive and well, driving the team to new heights each season.

Whether you're a long-time fan or new to UNT football, there's always something exciting happening on and off the field. The traditions, the rivalries, and the unforgettable games all contribute to the unique experience of being a part of the UNT football community. As the team continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains constant: the unwavering support and passion of its fans. Here's to many more seasons of thrilling football and lasting memories.