Even though North Texas got the win against the University of Texas at El Paso on Saturday, there was no excitement shown in the press conference held earlier this week. Head Coach Seth Littrell and the players seemed to share the feeling that they hadn’t done well enough.

“We have a lot of things to clean up,” Littrell said. “We’ve got to correct our mistakes and continue to get better.”

“If you’re satisfied with this win, you’re wrong and you shouldn’t be here,” repeated linebacker E.J. Ejiya, quoting from a speech teammate T.J. Henson had given after the game.

UNT won 27-24 in El Paso last weekend in a game that ran close from start to finish. If not for a late defensive stand, when the defense came up with two interceptions in crucial moments to nail down the win, the Mean Green’s position might’ve turned out very differently. UNT has had one of the top defensive squads in the country lately, especially in the turnover category.

“The way we worked in the program this offseason, it’s not a surprise we are as good as we are.” said defensive back Tyreke Davis.

When asked if UNT had considered a “turnover chain” type award, similar to the ornate golden necklace presented to Miami Hurricanes players who make turnovers, Davis was blunt: “No, not really.”

The way this defense is playing, maybe it’s just a matter of time until they come up with something. The next game is at home, up against a tough Southern Mississippi offense, and UNT could use any turnover they can get.

“The outside receivers are very talented,” said Ejiya , of Southern Mississippi’s Golden Eagles. “The linemen are big and physical, and the quarterback makes quick reads.”

“We need to make sure we don’t get complacent.” Davis said.

Photos by Jordan Brown.

Header design by Tori Falcon.