This week, we reached out to Reed Smith of the North Texas Daily, the official independent student newspaper of the University of North Texas. You can follow the paper at @ntdaily and Reed at @reed_smith25.

What are some of UNT’s biggest strengths?

  • The team has had issues on all three phases, but has found some success through the running game.
  • The defense has the ability to force turnovers with 11 on the season.
  • A lot of heart.

What are some of UNT’s biggest weaknesses?

  • The offense struggles on third and fourth down, only converting just over 30% on third down this season
  • North Texas does not have an established quarterback yet, with sophomores Jace Ruder and Austin Aune starting intermittently this season. Aune has now been the starter for three games.
  • North Texas’ defense is extremely vulnerable to the big play, often blowing coverages.
  • Play calling on third down has been questionable (draws down the middle, etc.)

How has North Texas’ record reflected or failed to reflect expectations for the team before the season?

While North Texas was not expected to be a powerhouse this season, the team had areas that writers believed would be bright. Discipline issues on and off the field, inconsistent play and a ravaged-by-injuries receiving corps have contributed to the 1-5, 0-3 Conference USA record this season.

Who are some players to watch for North Texas?

  • Senior running back DeAndre Torrey has led the offense all season. The explosive back is effective out of the backfield and in the passing game.
  • Junior Tyreke Davis on defense plays what UNT calls the “eagle” position on defense, and is ironically a ball hawk. Davis is in on most tackles and has great closing speed.
  • Senior Dion Novil is one of the more athletic defensive linemen you’ll see this season. While he’s 308 pounds, he’s nimble for his size. Has an interception and a blocked field goal to his name this season.

What position matchup are you most excited to watch?

Malik Willis versus the UNT defense will be intriguing to me. Willis tests all defenses he plays (as you guys know well), and I will be interested to see if UNT can contain Willis like ULM did last week.

What’s your prediction for the game?

I think Liberty wins this one easily, handing UNT its sixth straight loss. I would not be shocked to see a blowout. UNT has a long way to go while Hugh Freeze has Liberty where he wants them, and that will be shockingly obvious come Friday.