UTSA coach Jeff Traylor held an unexpected Monday practice to ensure his team doesn't underestimate UTRGV in Saturday's season opener. The Roadrunners are nearly 30-point favorites against the FCS opponent, but Traylor emphasizes the Vaqueros' capabilities.
UTRGV enters the game with a 9-3 record from its first season and a 44-0 victory over UT Permian Basin last weekend. Traylor stated, "They're a big favorite, and they've been hearing it all week. I'm just trying to make sure I provide them the intensity. They deserve to know how good of a team Travis Bush has and what we're going to see Saturday."
UTSA will debut an altered offensive system coordinated by Rick Bowie, moving towards an air raid attack, and features largely new defensive personnel. Traylor has implemented changes throughout the offseason, including adjustments to staffing, roster construction, and practice schedules. While acknowledging the adjustments, quarterback Owen McCown expressed confidence in the team's chemistry, stating they have “already built a brotherhood.” Linebacker Owen Pewee echoed this sentiment, saying, “You never know what's going to happen until you get out there on the field, but personally and mentally, I feel like I'm ready, and I feel like the whole team is ready, too.”
The game will be played at 2:30 p.m. Saturday at the Alamodome in San Antonio and broadcast on ESPN+. It can also be heard on Ticket 760 AM. This marks the first meeting between the two programs. The spread is UTSA –28.5 and the over/under is 59.5.
UTRGV is expected to rotate quarterbacks Garret Rangel and Aidan Jakobsohn. LSU transfer Malachi Lane and Oklahoma State transfer Braden Baize are players to watch for the Vaqueros. UTSA anticipates a “reckless” defensive style from UTRGV, utilizing presnap movement. Roadrunners fans will be watching quarterback Owen McCown, who is expected to be more mobile after offseason surgery to address a sports hernia.
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